A Case of Piracy: Part 3-Sentence of Death
A Case of Piracy Historical Trial Series by Eric Fryar Part 3: Sentence of Death Two sailors are charged with piracy and murder in 1812 Boston. The most talked-about trial of its day. A surprise ending. This is an excerpt from a forthcoming book by Eric Fryar. " Guilty ." The word hung in the air of the silent courtroom. The Court thanked the jury, dismissed them, and then adjourned. The prisoners were taken back to their cell. James Austin was crushed but determined not to give up. Motion for New Trial On the morning of Thursday, October 30, 1812, Austin hurried to court and filed the following motion for a new trial with the Clerk: United States of America, District of Massachusetts} Circuit Court of U.S. October Term, 1812} The United States by Indictment vs. Samuel Tully and John Dalton And now after verdict and before judgment, the said Samuel and John, by their counsel assigned them by the Court, now move the Court here for a new trial of the issued joined on the s