French's Hearing Set For Today in Boston

The hearing for pacifist Edward A. French '54 is set for 11 a.m. today in Boston's Federal building. The hearing will be held contingent on the arrival of permission from the Oregon District Attorney. Otherwise the case will receive its second continuance.

French plans, however, to waive the hearing. "In my case it's just a formality," he said. The case will then go to a Grand Jury for an indictment. If indicated, French then goes before a U.S. District Judge. Here, French says he will plead guilty, as required, if the case is to be tried outside of Oregon.

The Judge then asks the State of Massachusetts to recommend a penalty. The District Attorney makes a recommendation which the Judge is empowered to pronounce immediately.

If the Oregon District Attorney does not grant permission French will have to return home for trial accompanied by a U.S. Marshall.