Statement From Accused Mink Liberator William Viehl
After months in jail, William “BJ” Viehl has plead guilty the the release of 600 mink from the McMullin Fur Farm (10495 S 1540 W South Jordan, UT). Below is his statement regarding this development.
“Greetings everyone! Thanks to all who have shown love and support
throughout mine, and Alex’s incarceration. We hope you all understand how
much appreciation, and love we both have for all of our supporters. apart
from my thanks, I felt it would be a good time for an update on my case.
these last few months have been intense. With the help of my lawyers, we
have litigated and motives to suppress “evidence”, and motioned for
dismissal based on lack of jurisdiction. Despite our attempts we were not
successful. After playing all the cards I was dealt, and becoming aware of
circumstances out of my control, I realized the best plan of action would
be to change my plea to guilty. If this case was in a different state or
district, chances at trial would be much more in my favor. Unfortunately
that is not the case.
Utah is a very conservative and religiously controlled state, and cases
like mine are almost always guilty until proven innocent. Having a
politically and religiously biased jury deciding my fate will not be of my
best interest. The change of plea hearing will be on September 2nd, 2009.
and will basically consist of me admitting guilt and accepting
responsibility. This, however, WILL NOT affect Alex negatively in any way.
Whatever Alex chooses to do with his case, he will have my love and
respect. I realized I am no help to the AR community sitting in jail. I
can’t wait to get out and do lots of volunteer work at our local animal
sanctuary “Ching Farm” and I cant wait to see a bunch of my supporters
face to face. I also plan on doing a lot more public outreach, and
educating the masses on the atrocities that innocent lives go through in
the factory farm industries, along with the truths of the devastating
effects to the environment that follow.
Regarding my imprisonment, I don’t want people to worry. I will
respectfully serve whatever sentence the court gives me. Along with that
and accepting responsibility, I am in no way cooperating or testifying
about any other activists. It is strictly me, myself, and I, admitting
guilt. Sentencing for my case will follow about 70 days after the change
of plea. Based on federal sentencing guidelines, I will hopefully be a
free man March 2010. Once again, I want to thank all of our supporters,
and give you the most love and respect. I’m so proud to be apart of such a
strong community. The amount of love and support strangers give to one
another is almost overwhelming. Please don’t stop your support for the
AETA 4 and Alex, it is very much needed.
Every one of you, are the hope for the future regarding the welfare of all
living creatures on this planet. For the environment and for the animals.
In Solidarity,
BJ”
