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Was Murder Suspect Asked To Take The Fall?

Thursday, August 16, 2007

OAKLAND, Calif., Aug.16, 2007 (KGO) -- The 19-year-old man who police say confessed to killing Oakland journalist Chauncey Bailey is now changing his tune. Suspect Devaughndre Broussard says he's innocent and that he was ordered to take the fall for Bailey's shooting death. That's what his lawyer says. Broussard appeared in court today.

Devaughndre Broussard's family referred questions about the case to his newly hired lawyer who said he finally was able to meet with his client Wednesday night after first being denied access.

LeRue Grim, defense lawyer: "I am concerned about this jail policy of restricting attorneys coming in and talking to clients."

Nineteen-year-old Devaughndre Broussard is charged with the August 2nd murder of Oakland Post editor Chauncey Bailey. He was arrested a day later when police raided Your Black Muslim Bakery, where he worked as a handyman, and several other homes nearby.

Police said he was seen throwing a weapon from the house and that he confessed. But Broussard told a reporter he was coerced.

LeRue Grim, defense lawyer: "I think you've heard what Mr. Broussard's father has said about the case that he was ordered by someone to take the fall, to make a false confession. And I felt a little bit skeptical about that but when I talked to him last night I was astonished to learn that while he was being questioned the police brought in a person from the Muslim Bakery who ordered my client in the police presence to confess to this."

Oakland police would not comment directly saying the case was in the hands of the district attorney.

Spokesman officer Roland Holmgren added, "I believe that we have some of the most professional and ethical investigators in homicide who have done an excellent job with investigating the case. They have done so with dignity and respect for all parties involved."

Broussard's lawyer said this will come up in trial.

LeRue Grim, defense lawyer: "In this case, Devaughndre will have to testify."

He is due back in court to enter a plea next month.

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