Let me tell you the sheer bizarreness of this situation. The Judge Jerry Baxter (who is white), told the newspaper late last year that the RICO charge was bullshit and the government probably couldn't meet it's burden!
I shit you not!
http://www.ajc.com/news/news/local/aps-judge-says-hes-somewhat-doubtful-about-rico-ch/njJ9Z/
"The judge overseeing the Atlanta Public Schools test-cheating trial on Tuesday said he is “somewhat doubtful” about the most serious charge — that of racketeering — facing each of the 12 former educators on trial."
The very next day he comes in a basically tells the Defendants to take a deal.
http://www.ajc.com/news/news/local/aps-judge-tells-sides-to-consider-compromise/njKwB/
“This RICO count is real,” Baxter said. “I understand the law. (Jurors) could find RICO in this case.”
"The racketeering count carries a maximum punishment of up to 20 years in prison. Eleven of the 12 defendants on trial also face lesser felony charges, which also carry potential prison time.
Baxter added, “I’m just saying usually if there’s some division, there’s a compromise. I’m just letting everybody know. Everybody is sitting around like this is a fun ride. But it’s serious.”"
This Judge was trying to let'em know, but.....
