Leonard Peltier, a Native American activist convicted in the 1975 killing of two FBI agents, has been released from prison after President Joe Biden commuted his life sentence. Peltier, now 80 years old, has spent nearly 50 years behind bars, making him one of the longest-serving political prisoners in U.S. history.
His release has sparked both celebration and controversy, as supporters hail it as a victory for justice, while some in law enforcement continue to argue he was rightfully convicted.
Peltier's Release: A Long-Fought Battle
After decades of legal battles, clemency petitions, and international advocacy, President Biden commuted Peltier’s sentence, citing concerns about his age, declining health, and the fairness of his trial.
On February 18, 2025, Peltier walked out of the U.S. Penitentiary in Coleman, Florida, where he had been held. He is expected to return to North Dakota, where a welcome celebration is planned by his supporters.
Why Was He in Prison?
Peltier, a member of the American Indian Movement (AIM), was convicted in 1977 for the shooting deaths of two FBI agents, Jack Coler and Ronald Williams, on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota.
His supporters, including human rights organizations such as Amnesty International, have long argued that:
- His trial was unfair and tainted by prosecutorial misconduct.
- The FBI used intimidation tactics to secure his conviction.
- Key evidence was withheld, and unreliable witnesses were used.
Multiple parole requests were denied over the years, but growing political and public pressure eventually led to Biden’s decision to grant clemency.
Mixed Reactions: Justice or Mistake?
Supporters Celebrate His Freedom
Native American leaders and activists have called this a historic moment, saying it corrects a decades-old injustice.
- Deb Haaland, U.S. Secretary of the Interior and the first Native American to serve in a presidential cabinet, praised Biden’s decision, calling Peltier’s imprisonment a “shameful chapter” in U.S. history.
- Amnesty International and United Nations officials had previously urged his release, citing human rights violations.
- Celebrities, politicians, and Indigenous groups have long supported his freedom, including Nelson Mandela, the Dalai Lama, and Pope Francis.
Clyde Bellecourt, AIM co-founder:
“Leonard’s release is not just about one man—it’s about the U.S. government finally recognizing its unjust treatment of Indigenous people.”
FBI and Law Enforcement Officials Disapprove
Former FBI Director Christopher Wray and other law enforcement officials strongly opposed Peltier’s release.
- They argue that Peltier remains guilty and that releasing him dishonors the memory of the slain FBI agents.
- The FBI Agents Association (FBIAA) called Biden’s decision “a betrayal” of justice.
- Some FBI families have expressed anger, saying that their loved ones were denied justice.
FBI Association Statement:
“Peltier was convicted by a jury. His release does not erase the fact that two young agents were brutally murdered.”
What’s Next for Leonard Peltier?
Peltier will return home to North Dakota, where supporters will hold a homecoming event.
Activists are pushing for a full exoneration, arguing that his conviction should be overturned completely.
Health concerns remain—he has diabetes, heart disease, and vision problems after years of poor medical care in prison.
Will He Receive a Formal Apology?
Many activists are now calling for the U.S. government to issue an official apology for what they claim was a wrongful conviction. Whether that happens remains to be seen.