A Desperate Defense
In 1960, Eddie Harrison, an 18-year-old Black man, faced charges of first-degree murder in Washington, D.C. His only hope was his lawyer, L.A. Harris, an eccentric public defender known for his courtroom tactics. Confident in his ability to save Harrison from the electric chair, Harris instructed him to memorize his story and never change it.
The Shot That Changed Everything
On a March morning, Harrison approached loan shark “Cider George” Brown to pawn a shotgun. A misunderstanding led to the gun accidentally firing, killing Brown instantly. Harrison fled the scene but later boasted about the incident to a friend, leading to his arrest.
The Courtroom Showdown
Harris mounted a fierce defense, discrediting police testimony and introducing doubt about the robbery motive. His theatrics captivated the courtroom, but Harrison and his co-defendants were still found guilty.
The Lawyer Unmasked
The trial took a twist when Harris was revealed as a fraud named Daniel Morgan, who had no legal credentials. Despite his exposure, Morgan’s legal knowledge helped Harrison challenge his conviction, eventually leading to his release after years of imprisonment.
The Imposter Lawyer Who Fought Death Row 🧑⚖️
A Desperate Defense
In 1960, Eddie Harrison, an 18-year-old Black man, faced charges of first-degree murder in Washington, D.C. His only hope was his lawyer, L.A. Harris, an eccentric public defender known for his courtroom tactics.… pic.twitter.com/Ewo0KnLBur— Detective Tiger’s Stories (@TigerDetective) October 11, 2024