34 years later, closer to the truth-Authorities mum on break that led to arrests

Pioneer Press ^ | 1-16-05 | MARA H. GOTTFRIED, SHANNON PRATHER AND JASON HOPPIN

[Rakkasan1]

For decades, who executed St. Paul police officer James Sackett was considered to be an open secret.

But making the case of a 1970 ambush killing that came during a fiery time of race riots and open hatred toward police would be "a long, slow process of hard investigation," predicted the police chief at the time.

Prosecutors and police unsealed indictments Saturday against two men who were suspects almost from the beginning. Authorities wouldn't say what the break in the case was, but hinted at the testimony of witnesses who hadn't come forward or been willing to talk.

"I don't know if that's because they don't have the same agendas and loyalties as back then, or if it's their consciences are coming into play," said Ramsey County Attorney Susan Gaertner. "We have had an opportunity to talk to people who simply weren't known 35 years ago that … might have something to say."

[Rakkasan1]

talk about your 'cold case'...

[csvset]

There are a couple of pics of Officer Sackett here at
SpotlightOnCrime

[BenLurkin]

But the witnesses are still alive apparently. There may still be justice for the victim, his family and society.

[Rakkasan1]

and the brother of one of the prime suspects is the head of the MPLS NAACP....shocking.