[Frameworks] Lawrence Brose in The Nation

[defensefund]

Dear Friends and Supporters of Lawrence Brose,

Lawrence’s case was recently sighted in an article by Lisa Duggan in The Nation,
a notable publication with an international readership.  And, as Bill Dobbs has
recently noted, the journalists are finally connecting the dots, placing
Lawrence’s case in the larger context beyond Western New York.   Here is a link
to the whole article which is worth a read and sharing with your network. 

http://www.thenation.com/article/what-the-pathetic-case-against-rentboy-com-says-about-sex-work/


Lawrence is referenced in this context:  “Many critics wanted to know why the
DHS was in the business of policing consensual adult sex in the first place?
Previous cases against escort websites had involved the FBI, not the DHS.
Created after 9/11 to unify the operations of 22 federal agencies, the DHS was
designed to focus on terrorism, cyber crime, border security, and so-called
national preparedness. And yet in recent years it has apparently strayed far
from that mandate. In 2014, it conducted a widely mocked “panty raid

” on a local lingerie shop in Kansas City for unlawfully reproducing a
sports-team logo on 36 pairs of cotton underpants. The DHS’s ICE agents also
garnered considerable ire from LGBT and arts groups after a six-year campaign

against gay Buffalo artist Lawrence Brose on child-pornography charges. The
child-porn charges were ultimately dropped; Brose pleaded guilty to an obscenity
charge in 2014, after running out of resources to continue his fight.”

The hyperlink “six-year campaign” above leads directly to the wonderful article
and look back on Lawrence’s case written by Colin Dabkowski for the Buffalo
News. 

The Defense Fund Team is dedicated to keeping you informed on Lawrence’s
situation and its relevance to artistic freedom of expression and social
justice.

***

To make tax deductible donations to Lawrence’s defense please log on to
http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/  and donate to
the Artist Fund for Lawrence Brose.

We encourage everyone to visit the defense fund website to catch up on what is
new, view the artwork that has been donated for sale and read the compelling
letters of support from notable people who have voiced their outrage and concern
for what is happening to Lawrence.

www.lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com


Thank you for your continued support. Please share this with your own network.

The Lawrence Brose Legal Defense Fund Team___
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[Frameworks] Lawrence Brose October Update

[defensefund]

Dear Friends and Supporters of Lawrence Brose,

In honor of Lawrence’s birthday on October 26, the Defense Fund Team thought it
would be timely to send you an update on Lawrence’s status.  In spite of the six
year battle against the outrageous charges, and nearly a year into his sentence
of two years of probation, Lawrence is doing remarkably well at reclaiming his
life and getting back to his artistic mission.

 

* His relationship with Anna Kaplan’s BT&C Gallery resulted in a hugely
successful exhibition of new work and many pieces are now in the hands of
collectors. 

 

* Lawrence was recently interviewed by Lawrence Chua, one of the founding
editors of BOMB Magazine, a leading national arts publication, for an upcoming
article focusing on Lawrence as an artist in the context of his case.

 

* Also in the works is a screening of DE PROFUNDIS at the prestigious
Leslie-Lohman Museum of Gay and Lesbian Art in New York City which could
coincide with fundraising efforts there.

 

A principal challenge for Lawrence is the debt to his legal team who fought back
against the false charges supported by the unlimited resources of the
government.  Underscoring the importance of paying this debt is the reality that
Lawrence continues to rely on his legal team.  For instance, if Lawrence is to
attend the screening at Leslie-Lohman in New York City, his attorneys will need
to petition the Court for permission to travel outside of Western New York as
stipulated in the probation mandates.  Lawrence needs a good relationship with
his legal team and paying this debt is paramount.

So, Lawrence’s birthday might be a perfect time to send him a gift that will
ensure the vital legal support he needs, sending him the message that we care
for him as a friend and support him in his defense.  To make tax deductible
donations to Lawrence’s defense please log on to http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/
and donate to the Artist Fund for Lawrence Brose.

We encourage everyone to visit the defense fund website to catch up on what is
new, view the artwork that has been donated for sale and read the compelling
letters of support from notable people who have voiced their outrage and concern
for what is happening to
Lawrence.

Thank you for your continued support and sending a Happy Birthday wish to
Lawrence.  Please share this with your own network.

The Lawrence Brose Legal Defense Fund Team___
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[Frameworks] Buffalo News profiles the return of artist Lawrence Brose

[defensefund]

Dear Friends and Supporters of Lawrence Brose,

The Buffalo News has published a rather extensive profile piece on Lawrence
which is ostensibly a celebration of his return to his life as an artist.  Staff
journalist Colin Dabkowski worked diligently on this report and interviewed
 thoroughly to bring a full story to the public. 

The Defense Fund Team wishes to thank Colin Dabkowski for his efforts to bring
to light issues that could not be discussed while attorneys were arguing their
sides of this case before the final outcome.  Finally, it really is a time of
celebration.  

Lawrence is back, creating his work, exhibiting, teaching and screening his
films.  The link to this article is below.  Please give it a read.  There
continues to be much to think about regarding how the government operates, how
computers work for and against us, and how we can continue to support an artist
we know and love whose biggest job is to heal from this madness.

Here is the link to the article:
 
http://buffalo.com/2015/07/20/news/art/with-legal-battle-over-child-porn-charges-behind-him-lawrence-brose-begins-to-re-emerge-in-buffalos-arts-community/

Thank you for your continued support.

The Defense Fund Team

**

We still need to remind everyone that Lawrence agreed to a plea deal to bring
this unfair situation to an end.  Probation still limits his movements and he is
subject to very close observation.  Freedom from this prosecution has cost
Lawrence dearly, financially and otherwise, and we need to continue to raise
significant funds for his mounting debt. To make tax deductible donations to
Lawrence’s defense please log on to http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/ and donate
to the Artist Fund for Lawrence Brose.

We encourage everyone to visit the defense fund website to catch up on what is
new, view the artwork that has been donated for sale and read the compelling
letters of support from notable people who have voiced their outrage and concern
for what is happening to
Lawrence.

Thank you for your continued support.  Please share this with your own network.

The Lawrence Brose Legal Defense Fund Team

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[Frameworks] Lawrence Brose returns to what he does best

[defensefund]

Dear Friends and Supporters,

More good news to share. 

The Buffalo News just published this insightful article on Lawrence, his art and
his return to the art scene after the nightmare of his legal case.  It is time
to celebrate this return and the new artwork.

We look forward to seeing you at Body of Trade and Commerce Gallery
 on Niagara Street, Friday evening from 6 to 9pm.

Here is the link to this article:

http://buffalo.com/2015/06/08/news/art/brose-returns-to-buffalo-art-scene-with-indicted/

 

**

We still need to remind everyone that Lawrence agreed to a plea deal to bring
this unfair situation to an end.  Probation still limits his movements and he is
subject to very close observation.  Freedom from this prosecution has cost
Lawrence dearly, financially and otherwise, and we need to continue to raise
significant funds for his debt. To make tax deductible donations to Lawrence’s
defense please log on to http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/ and donate to the
Artist Fund for Lawrence Brose.

We encourage everyone to visit the defense fund website to catch up on what is
new, view the artwork that has been donated for sale and read the compelling
letters of support from notable people who have voiced their outrage and concern
for what is happening to
Lawrence.

Thank you for your continued support.  Please share this with your own network.

The Lawrence Brose Legal Defense Fund Team___
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[Frameworks] March Update from Lawrence Brose

[defensefund]

Dear Friends,

It has been a while since we sent out a dispatch from the defense fund and I
think that it is time for me to write to you personally and to express my
deepest gratitude for your unwavering support.  I cannot express strongly enough
how much your support has meant to me throughout the past six years.  You kept
me alive and believed in me enough to help me fight the greatest fight of my
life.  I have not been able to comment about the case while it was pending but
now I can speak and I will!

I am humbled by the amount of passionate support that you gave to me.  You kept
me from feeling like I was in this alone and that this was just my fight.  All
of you fought tirelessly and relentlessly giving me the courage I needed to keep
going.  You were always there for me – taking my calls, reading and responding
to the emails from my defense fund team, sending me cards and notes letting me
know how much you care about my wellbeing and how troubled you were about all of
this.  You cared and you all did something.  You made significant donations to
pay for my attorneys and forensic experts (who in the end were really
instrumental in the resultant plea offer made to me).  Without your support I
never could have afforded the level and quality of our star computer expert and
because I could pay her in a timely fashion she always took my calls and spent
hours on the phone with me (without charge) talking me down and reassuring me
that I was not delusional – that I was innocent and she would be here for me no
matter what, even if I couldn’t afford to pay her. She is outraged over these
charges and believes that the charges had no merit and should have been dropped.

I want to also let you know that personally and emotionally I am well and on the
road to recovery.  My brain is working again!  The synapses are returning and I
am full of energy.  The anxiety that crippled me and sent me down the rabbit
hole more times than I care to recall has abated.  Thanks to all of the kind
people in the Department of Art at UB I am now teaching fulltime.  People are
reaching out to me for my counsel and expertise to help them with their various
organizations. I am beginning to breathe again and feel like I actually have a
future and something to offer the world.  I am returning to art making and I
have a solo exhibition of my DE PROFUNDIS prints (some new ones too) in June at
the BT&C Gallery here in Buffalo.  The exhibition will be titled “Indicted”!  I
have also been awarded an artist residency at the Institute of Electronic Art at
Alfred University.  I am pleased to report that many good things are beginning
to happen in my life again.

For now let me just say that you all have played a major role in my survival.  I
never would have made it through this without you.  You never allowed this case
and these unjust charges to define me and thereby prevented me from letting them
define who I am.  It was such a bleak and dark period of my life but each and
every one of you shined a light into my life and gave me hope and courage and
for that I will be forever in your debt and humbled by the love and kindness
that you gave to me without question or expectation.

We will continue to keep you informed of the various activities, screenings,
exhibitions, fundraisers and articles as they occur or being planned but for now
I really just want to thank you from the depth of my being for being such loyal
and dear friends.

In solidarity!

Lawrence (Larry to some)

**

We still need to remind everyone that Lawrence agreed to a plea deal to bring
this unfair situation to an end.  Probation still limits his movements and he is
subject to very close observation.  Freedom from this prosecution has cost
Lawrence dearly, financially and otherwise, and we need to continue to raise
significant funds for his mounting debt. To make tax deductible donations to
Lawrence’s defense please log on to http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/ and donate
to the Artist Fund for Lawrence Brose.

We encourage everyone to visit the defense fund website to catch up on what is
new, view the artwork that has been donated for sale and read the compelling
letters of support from notable people who have voiced their outrage and concern
for what is happening to
Lawrence.

Thank you for your continued support.  Please share this with your own network.

The Lawrence Brose Legal Defense Fund Team___
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[Frameworks] New Article on Lawrence Brose

[defensefund]

Dear Friends and Supporters of Lawrence Brose,

As this year comes to a close The Lawrence Brose Defense Fund Team wishes to
thank everyone who has stayed with Lawrence through this legal nightmare.
 Lawrence now begins a new chapter of his life with a two year probation
sentence (complete with an overzealous probation officer) plus a mountain of
debt from legal fees.  In some ways it doesn’t feel all that different, but as
Bill Altreuter points out, with this sentence, everything is different for
Lawrence.

Attorney and freelance writer Bill Altreuter has published a marvelous essay
which brings everyone into the court room the day of the sentencing.  It is well
worth a read.

Here is a link to this essay in The Public.

http://www.dailypublic.com/articles/12232014/lawrence-brose-sentenced-probation

Thank you,

Defense Fund Team

**

We still need to remind everyone that freedom from this prosecution has cost
Lawrence dearly, financially and otherwise, and of the need to continue to raise
significant funds for his mounting debt. To make tax deductible donations to
Lawrence’s defense please log on to http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/ and donate
to the Artist Fund for Lawrence Brose.

We encourage everyone to visit the defense fund website to catch up on what is
new, view the artwork that has been donated for sale and read the compelling
letters of support from notable people who have voiced their outrage and concern
for what is happening to Lawrence.

www.lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com

Thank you for your continued support.  Please share this with your own network.

The Lawrence Brose Legal Defense Fund Team___
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[Frameworks] Lawrence Brose Sentence

[defensefund]

Dear Friends and Supporters of Lawrence Brose





The Court recognizes the great strength of Lawrence’s character and issued a
“non-guideline” sentence today which addresses the Court’s need to send a
message that it takes charges such as these as serious.  It is a sentence that
the Court recognizes Lawrence can handle, again, because of the strength of his
character but also of “the unlikelihood of a repeat offense”.



* Two years of minimally supervised probation
* Continued alcohol prohibition
* No fine
* Continued monitoring of Lawrence’s computer use, but not every key stroke as
before – only a scaled back physical monitoring



There is a sense of relief among his supporters who were present.



More information will be following soon.



The Defense Fund Team



**





We still need to remind everyone that freedom from this prosecution has

cost Lawrence dearly, financially and otherwise, and of the need to

continue to raise significant funds for his mounting debt. To make

tax deductible donations to Lawrence’s defense please log on to

http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/ and donate to the Artist Fund for Lawrence

Brose.





We encourage everyone to visit the defense fund website to

catch up on what is new, view the artwork that has been donated for sale

and read the compelling letters of support from notable people who have

voiced their outrage and concern for what is happening to Lawrence.

www.lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com





Thank you for your continued support.  Please share this with your own network.







The Lawrence Brose Legal Defense Fund Team

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[Frameworks] URGENT: LAWRENCE BROSE SENTENCING HEARING POSTPONED (again)

[defensefund]

Dear friends and supporters of Lawrence Brose,

It is disappointing and frustrating news, especially for Lawrence, but
with less than 24 hour notice, Judge Skretny has notified Lawrence’s
attorneys that he is rescheduling the sentencing hearing.  The new
calendar schedule is Wednesday, December 17 at 3:30PM.

Apologies to everyone who adjusted their schedules and are in some cases
travelling long distance with hotel reservations, etc.   Your commitment
to Lawrence’s defense and your desire to be present for this hearing
speaks loudly as witnesses to this unfortunate drama.

Sincerely,

Defense Fund Team


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[Frameworks] Reminder – Lawrence Brose Sentencing Hearing Nov. 25 at 9AM

[defensefund]

Dear friends and supporters of Lawrence Brose,


This is an important reminder that the Sentencing Hearing date is this
Tuesday, November 25th at 9 am in Judge Skretny's courtroom in the new
Federal Courthouse (2 Niagara Square) in downtown Buffalo.


Having the courtroom filled with as many supporters as possible will go a
long way toward sending a message that the community supports him and is
paying attention. The show of support means so much to Lawrence!


Please note that there will be an "after-the-hearing" gathering at
HALLWALLS Contemporary Arts Center (341 Delaware Ave.) with coffee, wine
and light snacks.  Please join us to raise a cup to the end of this
madness!


Hope that you can make it.

Sincerely,


The Lawrence Brose Defense Fund Team

**


We still need to remind everyone that freedom from this prosecution has
cost Lawrence dearly, financially and otherwise, and of the need to
continue to raise significant funds for Lawrence’s mounting debt. To make
tax deductible donations toward Lawrence’s defense please log on to
http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/ and donate to the Artist Fund for Lawrence
Brose.


We encourage everyone to visit Lawrence’s defense fund website to
catch up on what is new, view the artwork that has been donated for sale
and read the compelling letters of support from notable people who have
voiced their outrage and concern for what is happening to Lawrence.
www.lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com


Thank you for your continued support.  Please share this with your own
network.



The Lawrence Brose Legal Defense Fund Team


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[Frameworks] High profile allies petition judge on behalf of Lawrence Brose

[defensefund]

Dear friends and supporters of Lawrence Brose,

As we approach the sentencing date of November 25, Lawrence’s attorneys
have submitted their report to the Court.  That report contains nearly a
hundred letters of appeal for leniency in sentencing.  Phil Fairbanks, a
staff reporter at the Buffalo News has been following this case and the
papers submitted to the Court.  His latest report in the Buffalo News
underscores the importance of the support everyone has been contributing
to Lawrence’s defense.

Lawrence felt this article was a reflection of support coming from his
community, for which he is humbly grateful.

Here is a link to the article for you to read and share:

http://www.buffalonews.com/city-region/police-courts/high-profile-allies-petition-judge-on-behalf-of-brose-20141106

Sincerely,


The Lawrence Brose Defense Fund Team

**


We still need to remind everyone that freedom from this prosecution has
cost Lawrence dearly, financially and otherwise, and of the need to
continue to raise significant funds for his mounting debt. To make
tax deductible donations to Lawrence’s defense please log on to
http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/ and donate to the Artist Fund for Lawrence
Brose.


We encourage everyone to visit the defense fund website to
catch up on what is new, view the artwork that has been donated for sale
and read the compelling letters of support from notable people who have
voiced their outrage and concern for what is happening to Lawrence.
www.lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com


Thank you for your continued support.  Please share this with your own
network.



The Lawrence Brose Legal Defense Fund Team


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[Frameworks] Urgent - Sentencing Hearing has been delayed again!

[defensefund]

Dear friends and supporters of Lawrence Brose,


Lawrence just heard from his attorneys that the Sentencing Hearing on
October 31st has been postponed (this was Mr. Cambria’s call).


This is a very unfortunate situation but Paul Cambria is currently
involved in a major murder trial and he wants to make sure that he can
give Lawrence’s case his full attention (which is a good thing).


The new Sentencing Hearing date has been set for: November 25th at 9 am in
Judge Skretny's courtroom in the new Federal Courthouse (2 Niagara Square)
in downtown Buffalo.


Yes, this is very disappointing - we had hoped to get this all behind him
by the end of this month.  However, this gives Lawrence’s team more time
to get it right.  His legal team is going to fight for "time served" and
even though we cannot predict what Judge Skretny will do, having the
courtroom filled with so many people will go a long way toward sending a
message that the community supports him and is paying attention. We had
almost 70 people coming for the October 31st date and some were coming in
from NYC and abroad. This has been a tremendous outpouring of support and
means so much to Lawrence!


Please let us know if you will be able to attend the new hearing on
November 25th! This will be the five year anniversary, to the date, of his
first court hearing in this case – yet another harsh commentary on our
system of justice!

Sincerely,


The Lawrence Brose Defense Fund Team

**


We still need to remind everyone that freedom from this prosecution has
cost Lawrence dearly, financially and otherwise, and of the need to
continue to raise significant funds for Lawrence’s mounting debt. To make
tax deductible donations toward Lawrence’s defense please log on to
http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/ and donate to the Artist Fund for Lawrence
Brose.


We encourage everyone to visit Lawrence’s defense fund website to
catch up on what is new, view the artwork that has been donated for sale
and read the compelling letters of support from notable people who have
voiced their outrage and concern for what is happening to Lawrence.
www.lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com


Thank you for your continued support.  Please share this with your own
network.



The Lawrence Brose Legal Defense Fund


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[Frameworks] Lawrence Brose sentencing hearing

[defensefund]

Dear Friends and Supporters of Lawrence Brose,


Here is the update you have been waiting for.


Lawrence’s sentencing hearing is firmly scheduled to take place on Friday,
October 31 at 10:30AM in the new Federal Court building, (2 Niagara Square
in downtown Buffalo) in Hon. Chief Judge William M. Skretny’s court.


Lawrence’s spirit has been bolstered by reports of the many supporters who
plan to attend this hearing. Lawrence’s legal team has done the best work
possible, given the circumstances - the complexity of this case and the
nature of the allegations.  We are looking forward to having this ordeal
behind us, but we are cautious in anticipation of the outcome.


All of your patience and support has been deeply appreciated and helpful
to Lawrence.  Needless to say, however this Court rules with regard to
sentencing on this plea deal, Lawrence will continue to need support
emotionally, financially and strategically as he works to put his life
back in order.


Good news!  The Forest City Gallery in London, Ontario has scheduled a
screening of Lawrence’s film DE PROFUNDIS on Saturday, November 15 at
6:30PM, complete with discussion to be led by Scott Miller Berry, the
Executive Director of The Images Festival in Toronto.  Forest City Gallery
is located at 258 Richmond Street, in London, Ontario. The screening will
not only be a showcase for Lawrence’s major opus in film, but it is also
designed as a fundraiser for Lawrence’s defense fund.  Artists all over
are realizing Lawrence’s situation could be their own and are becoming
more involved in supporting Lawrence, the artist facing false charges. We
should note that due to probation restrictions Lawrence is unable to
attend this screening.


Word is definitely getting out, and support always follows once people
understand the details of this case.

Sincerely,

The Lawrence Brose Defense Fund Team

**


We still need to remind everyone that freedom from this prosecution has
cost Lawrence dearly, financially and otherwise, and of the need to
continue to raise significant funds for Lawrence’s mounting debt. To make
tax deductible donations toward Lawrence’s defense please log on to
http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/ and donate to the Artist Fund for Lawrence
Brose.


We encourage everyone to visit Lawrence’s defense fund website to
catch up on what is new, view the artwork that has been donated for sale
and read the compelling letters of support from notable people who have
voiced their outrage and concern for what is happening to Lawrence.
www.lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com


Thank you for your continued support.  Please share this with your own
network.



The Lawrence Brose Legal Defense Fund Team


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[Frameworks] Important letter from Lawrence Brose

[defensefund]

Dear friends and supporters,

I just heard from my new attorney (Joe Agro) that the sentencing hearing
on September 3rd has been postponed.  It’s very complicated but we don’t
expect the new sentencing hearing to happen for possibly 2 months.


Yes, this is very disappointing - I had hoped to get this all behind me by
early September.  However, this is a result of having a new attorney on
the case who is taking seriously my concerns about the Probation Report
and Recommendations. Joe Agro had a meeting with senior attorney Paul
Cambria and now Paul is also fired up about it.  So looking on the bright
side (that’s me: Susie Sunshine!) this give my team more time to get it
right (which means negotiating and even fighting with Probation) and to
put together our own report for Judge Skretny.  Having lived for nearly
six years with probation requirements based on the original (and false)
charges it is important now that sentencing recommendations are accurately
put in the context of the plea deal.


I had well over 50 people who were coming for the September 3rd date and
some were coming in from NYC. This has been a tremendous outpouring of
support and means so much to me!


One final note:  I believe that all of the wonderful letters that my
attorneys have received from so many people are having a powerful impact.
My attorneys are sitting up and taking notice and now are back fighting
for the best outcome for me.


I will let you know as soon as I get a new date (it will take a while) and
hopefully you will be available to be there in court as my support team.


All my best,


Lawrence


*

We still need to remind everyone that freedom from this prosecution has
cost Lawrence dearly, financially and otherwise, and of the need to
continue to raise significant funds for Lawrence’s mounting debt. To make
tax deductible donations toward Lawrence’s defense please log on to
http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/ and donate to the Artist Defense Fund for
Lawrence Brose.


We want to encourage everyone to visit Lawrence’s defense fund website to
catch up on what is new, view the artwork that has been donated for sale
and read the compelling letters of support from notable people who have
voiced their outrage and concern for what is happening to Lawrence.

www.lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com


Thank you for your continued support.



The Lawrence Brose Legal Defense Fund Team


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[Frameworks] July 2014 Update on Lawrence Brose

[defensefund]

Dear Friends and Supporters of Lawrence Brose,

The most important thing to communicate here is to express the gratitude
that Lawrence is feeling right now for all the support he has received
over the duration of this nearly six year ordeal.  108 letters of support
are being submitted to the Court to ask for leniency in sentencing.

When the plea deal was presented by the DA to Lawrence’s attorneys, it
offered Lawrence a chance to leave this nightmare behind.  Please remember
that Lawrence is still living under court mandated probation requirements
as he has since the beginning of the allegations.  This has not been an
easy road for Lawrence, but the letters of support have certainly lifted
his spirits and reminded him of his own value.  Family and friends, fellow
artists, colleagues, artists he has supported, legal justice advocates,
distinguished members of the Buffalo community and representatives of the
national art world he has worked in, all want to put this chapter behind
so he can return to be the artist and arts mentor he is.

The sentencing hearing is taking place on Wednesday, September 3rd at 3pm
in the new federal court building, (2 Niagara Square in downtown Buffalo)
in Hon. Chief Judge William M. Skretny’s court.

Please take a moment to realize that all of your support has been deeply
appreciated and helpful.

Sincerely,

The Lawrence Brose Defense Fund Team

**


We still need to remind everyone that freedom from this prosecution has
cost Lawrence dearly, financially and otherwise, and of the need to
continue to raise significant funds for Lawrence’s mounting debt. To make
tax deductible donations toward Lawrence’s defense please log on to
http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/ and donate to the Artist Fund for Lawrence
Brose.


We want to encourage everyone to visit Lawrence’s defense fund website to
catch up on what is new, view the artwork that has been donated for sale
and read the compelling letters of support from notable people who have
voiced their outrage and concern for what is happening to Lawrence. 
www.lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com


Thank you for your continued support.



The Lawrence Brose Legal Defense Fund Team


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[Frameworks] Filmmaker Lawrence Brose’ Guilty Plea: What it Means

[defensefund]

Filmmaker Lawrence Brose’ Guilty Plea: What it Means

By William C. Altreuter

The case against my friend Lawrence Brose now moves into the sentencing
phase, which means that it is far from over. This, in turn, means that
Brose is still not really able to comment-- but I still can, and have, and
will.

What is the take-away from the plea? This is a complicated question, but
anyone who thinks to ask it should know several things. Six years of a
legal battle is nothing like an ordinary plea bargain scenario.  From the
outset this case was different from nearly every child pornography
prosecution I’ve researched, simply because it wasn’t plead out at the
first opportunity.  The defense was pitched, and expensive. My estimate is
that there was at least another year of expensive legal knife fighting to
go before trial. What changed was that the US Attorney's office proposed a
plea. This is rare. Typically DOJ will accept guilty pleas to the top
count of the indictment-- the most serious charge. In this instance the
charge was reduced, from 18 USC § 1466A Obscene visual representations of
the sexual abuse of children, to 18 USC § 1462- Obscenity. The superseding
instrument referenced "viewing" a single image, instead 'possessing" over
a thousand referenced in the original indictment. What happened? It seems
pretty clear to me that the US Attorney's office acknowledged the weakness
of its case, and that Lawrence has elected to move forward with his life,
putting the crippling legal fees and toxic accusations behind him and
returning to making art and being a positive force in the Western New York
arts community.

Trial lawyers all know that litigation is something that you do until the
escalation reaches the point of irrationality. When a rational choice
presents itself, rational persons accept it. This plea means that Lawrence
will not be tagged as a sex offender (anyone who knows him will realize
what a grotesque thing that would have been). The downside risk of
sentencing is substantially mitigated, and as part of the agreement the
prosecution has agreed that it will not oppose a "non-guidelines"
sentence-- something that is even more unusual than an agreement to accept
a plea to a reduced charge.


Finally, a thought about the process. One of the things that I've noticed
as this matter ground on was how surprised many of Lawrence's friends were
by the grueling quality of a criminal prosecution. The right against
self-incrimination means that a defendant has to expect that anything he
says to anyone turns that person into a potential witness in the case
against him, and as a result the very people one might turn to for
emotional support are effectively pushed away at the exact moment when
sharing a confidence in exchange for emotional support is the most
important thing in the life of the accused. It is alienating, and
exhausting, and isolating; and the prosecution knows this and exploits it.
The people who have stood with Lawrence have my respect-- it isn't easy to
take a thing like this on faith. It is particularly difficult, I think,
when the process is so unfamiliar. We think we know about how the criminal
justice system works, but a case like this takes a lot longer than 43
minutes with time out for commercials. The prosecution of Lawrence Brose
is being carried out in our name-- it is literally The United States of
America vs. Lawrence Brose. The most powerful nation in the world against
a solitary artist, possessed of pretty much all of the resources that
you'd expect an experimental filmmaker would have. We should, as a
community, be better aware of the other things that are being done in our
name, and we ought to be calling for greater accountability and
transparency.


In the coming weeks Lawrence will be reaching out to you for letters of
support to be submitted to the court by his attorneys, who will present
them in their sentencing memorandum.  Your letters will go a long way in
supporting him by speaking to his character, his importance as an artist,
his contributions to the community and the art world.


Yours truly,

William C. Altreuter
Altreuter Berlin
Attorneys for The Lawrence Brose Legal Defense Fund



Two links to current press reports:

http://www.buffalonews.com/city-region/federal-court/obscenity-plea-enables-filmmaker-to-avoid-child-porn-conviction-20140416

and

http://wivb.com/2014/04/16/lawrence-brose-pleads-guilty-to-obscenity/


*



We still need to remind everyone that freedom from this prosecution has
cost Lawrence dearly, financially and otherwise, and we need to continue
to raise significant funds for Lawrence’s mounting debt. To make tax
deductible donations toward Lawrence’s defense please log on to
http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/ and donate to the Artist Defense Fund for
Lawrence Brose.


We want to encourage everyone to visi

[Frameworks] Critical update in Federal case against Lawrence Brose

[defensefund]

Dear Friends and Supporters of Lawrence Brose,

Very soon the United States Attorney’s office will announce that Lawrence
has agreed to accept and plead guilty to a reduced charge. In exchange it
has offered to move to dismiss the original Indictment against Lawrence.
This letter is to alert you to this development so you will have some of
the facts and context to help understand it.

First, and perhaps most importantly, Lawrence has not, and does not admit
that he ever knowingly downloaded or possessed images of child
pornography. The government’s plea offer, which Lawrence has agreed to
accept, is to a lesser charge. Like all pleas this is a compromise by the
two parties, nothing more and nothing less. Lawrence has fought hard, but
has decided to move on with his life and his work. The government’s offer
allows Lawrence to come out from under the cloud of accusation.  His
artwork does not contain images of sexually exploited children.  It never
did. Most importantly, this plea allows Lawrence to move on with his life.

In the coming weeks Lawrence will be reaching out to you for letters of
support to be submitted to the court by his attorneys, who will present
them in their sentencing memorandum.  Your letters will go a long way in
supporting him by speaking to his character, his importance as an artist,
his contributions to the community and the art world.

The case is not over yet, and your continued support and understanding are
still needed. On behalf of Lawrence and the Defense Fund thank you for all
that you have done up to now—it has been invaluable to our friend and he
is grateful for your support and kindness.

Yours truly,

William C. Altreuter
Altreuter Berlin
Attorneys for The Lawrence Brose Legal Defense Fund

*


This certainly is a good turn of events in Lawrence’s case and is the
result of strategic negotiations on the part of Lawrence’s legal team.
While the critical changes for Lawrence are to take place at the
sentencing stage which is at least 6 months away, for the first time we
can see where this case is headed.


We still need to remind everyone that freedom from this prosecution has
cost Lawrence dearly, financially and otherwise, and we need to continue
to raise significant funds for Lawrence’s mounting debt. To make tax
deductible donations toward Lawrence’s defense please log on to
http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/ and donate to the Artist Defense Fund for
Lawrence Brose.


We want to encourage everyone to visit Lawrence’s defense fund website to
catch up on what is new, view the artwork that has been donated for sale
and read the compelling letters of support from notable people who have
voiced their outrage and concern for what is happening to Lawrence. 
www.lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com


Thank you for your continued support.



The Lawrence Brose Legal Defense Fund Team


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[Frameworks] Lawrence Brose at the end of 2013

[defensefund]

Dear Friends and Supporters of Lawrence Brose,

At this year’s end it is a good time to thank everyone who has helped with
their generous financial support and their invaluable moral support.  
Support comes to Lawrence in many ways, and all of it is important.  We
offer the noble words of supporters quoted below as a reminder of who
Lawrence’s supporters are and what this case means to them.  Please take a
moment to read and reflect upon these powerful statements.

NEWS:  On January 10th the Burchfield Penny Art Center in Buffalo is
screening The Censorship Show:  media artists respond to the federal
investigation against Lawrence Brose.  Part personal, part meditation on
queer art, and part rumination on the nature of censorship, this
compilation includes work by Laurie MacDonald from the Electron Movers,
Meg Knowles and Ron Ehmke, Bill Brown, Anula Shetty and Mike Kuetemeyer,
Carolee Schneemann, Barbara Hammer and Kathy High.  Coordinating
producers:  Dorothea Braemer and Joanna Raczynska.  If you are unable to
attend, you can view the entire program (30 minutes) on the defense fund
website:  www.lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com.


As always, and now at the end of the year, we encourage financial support
by sending your tax deductible donations to the National Center for Reason
and Justice www.NCRJ.org/ and stipulate your donation for the Artist’s
Fund which will directly support NCRJ’s advocacy for Lawrence.  We cannot
stress enough the importance of NCRJ which works for child-protective laws
based on science, fairness, and good sense, and supports people who are
falsely accused or convicted of crimes against children.  NCRJ has a page
specifically dedicated to Lawrence’s case: www.ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/,
while their main address above illustrates recent extraordinary successes
in advocating for people unjustly accused.

Thank you for your continued support.


•   “This is a time when Lawrence requires the support of his many
friends…..It is critical that Lawrence continue to aggressively fight the
charges and maintain his innocence.”  Nils Olsen, Professor of Law and
former Dean, University at Buffalo Law School
Sandra Olsen, PhD, Director of the University at Buffalo Art Galleries


•   “I urge all my colleagues in the arts, and all who care about personal
privacy rights, artistic freedom, and civil liberties, to support Lawrence
Brose, financially and otherwise, in his own brave battle to hold out
against this unmerited and relentless prosecution, which has already taken
an enormous toll on him and those near and dear to him professionally,
personally, and financially.”  Edmund Cardoni ,Executive Director
Hallwalls Contemporary Arts Center


•   “The charges that Mr. Brose is facing, in my opinion, are unfounded and
violate freedom of speech, freedom of expression, and artistic freedom -
all critical cornerstones of our society. Lawrence Brose has the complete
support of the artistic community in Buffalo, who know and respect him and
his work.” Louis Grachos  Director, Albright-Knox Art Gallery


•   “I am outraged that Buffalo, with its proud tradition of innovative,
cutting edge art, a city that supports more arts organizations per capita
than any other in the US and has made art and culture the foundation of
its revival is now increasingly viewed elsewhere as a cultural
backwater--all because of these high profile persecutions of our artists.
Enough is enough. Please contribute to Lawrence's defense and send a
message that we will not submit our arts to their cynical political
calculus.”  Jonathan D, Katz, Director, Visual Studies Doctoral Program,
University at Buffalo

•   “More and more exculpatory information has been made public, and it is
becoming clear that Lawrence was singled out for prosecution because of
his art and his status in the arts community. Lawrence has always
maintained his innocence, and his substantive and procedural defenses look
strong….The exoneration of an innocent man is as worthy a cause as there
is, and any contribution would be gratefully received.” William C.
Altreuter, Partner, Altreuter Berlin; Past President, Squeaky
Wheel/Buffalo Media Resources

•   “One magistrate judge has recommended dismissing the entire case,
stating that here is not enough evidence. Yet the nightmare
continues….Lawrence was never a threat to our community. Quite the
opposite, he is a friend and tremendous asset for so many of us. He
deserves our full support while he is fighting the case that will
determine the rest of his life.” Dorothea Braemer, Executive Director,
Squeaky Wheel

•   “An impressive list of Feminist artists, writers and intellectuals have
signed on to support the Lawrence Brose Defense Fund….As you can imagine
Lawrence has been dragged through years of life destroying legal expenses,
restrictions on his travel, unemployability and severe psychological
stress as he fights a potential prison sentence on these dubious charges.”
Sarah Schulman

[Frameworks] Media artists respond to the federal investigation against filmmaker Lawrence Brose

[defensefund]

Dear Friends and Supporters,

Termite TV Collective's “The Censorship Show” was shown recently at the
Union for Democratic Communications (UDC) Conference in San Francisco
November 2nd.

Part personal recollections, part meditation on queer art, and part
rumination on the nature of censorship, this thought-provoking collection
of videos includes work by Laurie MacDonald from the Electron Movers (with
Alan Powell), Meg Knowles and Ron Ehmke, Bill Brown, Anula Shetty and Mike
Kuetemeyer, Carolee Schneeman, Barbara Hammer and Kathy High.

Coordinating producers are Dorothea Braemer and Joanna Raczynska.

Please use this link to view the half hour “Censorship Show”. 
https://vimeo.com/78072121

While all of these short films are compelling, be sure to watch to the end
where Dorothea has recorded Lawrence talking about how this case has had
an impact on his artistic process.  We encourage everyone to help spread
this message by clicking “Like”, but also by posting and sharing with all
available social networks.

It is vitally important to mention that a considerable amount of money
needs to be raised to pay for Lawrence’s defense against these charges. 
His forensic expert has worked diligently on Lawrence’s computer to prove
his innocence and this is another cost added on, in addition to the
mounting attorney fees.


To make tax deductable donations toward Lawrence’s defense please log on
to http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/ and donate to the Artist Defense Fund
for Lawrence Brose.


We want to encourage everyone to visit Lawrence’s defense fund website to
catch up on what is new, view the artwork that has been donated for sale
and read the compelling letters of support from notable people who have
voiced their outrage and concern for what is happening to Lawrence. 
www.lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com


Thank you for your continued support.


The Lawrence Brose Legal Defense Fund Team


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[Frameworks] Lawrence Brose in the blogosphere.

[defensefund]

Dear friends and supporters,

In an effort to raise money toward his rising legal defense costs,
Lawrence participated in the Echo Art Fair in Buffalo putting on sale some
of the artwork donated by supporting artists.

Paddy Johnson, chief editor of the premier art blog entitled ArtFCity
attended the art show and reported on the art fair, but focused on
Lawrence and his case in this report:

http://artfcity.com/2013/09/08/the-echo-art-fair-day-two-is-this-for-sale/

It is well worth a read.

The Echo Arts Fair was a great opportunity for networking and spreading
the word about Lawrence’s case.

It is important to mention that a considerable amount of money needs to be
raised to pay for his defense against these charges.  His forensic expert
has worked diligently on Lawrence’s computer to prove his innocence and
this is another cost added on to attorney fees.

To make donations toward Lawrence’s defense please log on to
http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/ and donate to the Artist Defense Fund for
Lawrence Brose.

Please share this blog post with your personal network.

Thank you for your continued support.

The Lawrence Brose Legal Defense Fund Team


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[Frameworks] Nils and Sandra Olsen appeal for support for Lawrence Brose

[defensefund]

Sandy and I are writing in support of our friend and colleague
Lawrence Brose.   A distinguished filmmaker and the long-time
Director of CEPA Gallery, Lawrence has been a highly respected and
prominent member of the arts community in Buffalo for many years. 
We have known Lawrence for many years and consider him a valued
friend.

As we are sure that you are aware, Lawrence is currently fighting 
federal
criminal charges.   As set forth in chilling clarity by local attorney
William Altreuter in his essay in the November 8, 2012 issue of Art
Voice, The United States vs. Lawrence Brose: A Butterfly on the Wheel,
http://artvoice.com/issues/v11n45/guest_essay,  Lawrence has been charged
with possession of images of child pornography allegedly found on an
unsecured Mac computer in a studio shared by many artists.   This is a
time when Lawrence requires the support of his many friends.

As difficult as it is to be charged with any federal felony, possession
of images of child pornography allegations represent a perfect storm for
the federal criminal defendant.   Because of the repugnant nature of the
offense, not to mention the creation of such images and the wanton
destruction of childhood they represent, any individual facing such a
charge is presumed guilty until proven innocent, and becomes a pariah,
even among many who considered themselves friends.  A defendant is likely
to lose his job and all available sources of income and normalcy at
exactly the time they are most important.  The specialized and serious
nature of the allegations and the potential punishment that conviction
carries are such as to demand the assistance of only the most experienced
and effective criminal defense attorney.  Such individuals, whose fees
are likely to exhaust all available resources, are absolutely essential
to a successful defense.

Lawrence has been mired in this situation for over three years. He has
lost his position with CEPA, an organization whose best interest he
served for many years.  While he has retained the services of Paul
Cambria, one of the most experienced advocates nationally for defense of
such charges, the cost of mounting a serious defense is astronomical. 
Lawrence has exhausted all of his personal resources, including his
retirement accounts, and must receive financial assistance from those of
us who know and support him.

It is critical that Lawrence continue to aggressively fight the charges
and maintain his innocence. While the financial cost of such a defense is
ruinous, the cost of a guilty plea, the alternative to mounting a
defense, is far more destructive.  Not only would Lawrence have to admit
guilt of an offense for which he has consistently maintained his factual
innocence, but he would have to spend a significant amount of time in a
federal prison, and be publically labeled as a sexual offender for life. 
We are therefore asking you to join us, make a contribution to the
defense fund established for Lawrence, and give him a call to express
your continued support and friendship.

The Lawrence Brose Legal Defense Fund is a Class A Non-Profit 
Corporation
registered with the State of New York. Donations are not tax deductible. 
However, donations can be made through the National Center for Reason and
Justice, a 501(c) 3 non-profit.  Send a check made out to "The National
Center for Reason and Justice" with "Lawrence Brose" in the memo line and
mail it to The National Center for Reason and Justice, PO BOX 191101
Roxbury, MA 02119 or visit the Center's website 
http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/ to make an online donation and learn more
about this important organization.  Non-tax deductible donations can also
be sent directly to the fund if you prefer to do so.  Please send a check
payable to "Lawrence Brose Legal Defense Fund" and mail it to 112 Bedford
Avenue #3R, Brooklyn, NY 11249.

We thank you for your thoughtful and compassionate consideration.

Nils Olsen, Professor of Law and former Dean, University at Buffalo Law
School
Sandra Olsen, PhD, Director of the University at Buffalo Art Galleries.

*

PLEASE SHARE THIS WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND COLLEAGUES.

We also invite supporters to send us their comments and suggestions for
spreading the word and seeking support.  We are confident that justice
will prevail for Lawrence Brose with your help.

If you do not want to receive updates on Lawrence’s defense, please let us
know.


Sincerest regards,

The Defense Fund Team
defensef...@lawrencebrose.com


www.lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com


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[Frameworks] Change.org petition for film artist Lawrence Brose

[defensefund]

Dear Friends and Supporters of Lawrence Brose,

Word is definitely getting out there about Lawrence’s case and his fight
for justice.

A new Change.org petition has been formed by Scott MacDonald, Professor of
Film History at Hamilton College and Harvard University, and Dominique
Bluher, a Lecturer on Visual & Environmental Studies, Harvard University. 
These petitions do much to educate the public and ultimately influence
laws and their applications.  This petition is just one more attempt to
help Lawrence in his efforts to regain his life and freedom.

Please take the time to click on the link below and sign the petition. 
Your comments, which can be left with your signature, are helpful to let
others know your reasons for supporting Lawrence.  This network of support
becomes a community of support with every shared input.

https://www.change.org/petitions/to-the-united-states-attorney-for-the-western-district-of-new-york-dismissal-of-the-indictment-of-lawrence-brose

Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,

The Lawrence Brose Legal Defense Fund Team



We cannot express our gratitude enough for the outpouring of help.  There
is a growing momentum of support, but we do need to remind all supporters
that we need to raise a significant amount of money to defend Lawrence's
innocence and help him reclaim his life.  Lawrence's legal defense has
depleted his life's savings.

Tax deductible donations to Lawrence's defense can be made through the
National Center for Reason and Justice.   http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/

NCRJ works for child-protective laws based on science, fairness, and good
sense, and supports people who are falsely accused or convicted of crimes
against children.

Also, please visit the defense fund website
http://lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com/ The website continues to update
with supportive testimonials and contributions to the art sale to benefit
Lawrence's defense.

To all who are receiving this email, please let us know if you do not want
to receive these updates.

For everyone else, PLEASE SHARE THIS WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND COLLEAGUES.  We
also invite supporters to send us their comments and suggestions for
spreading the word and seeking support.  We are confident that justice
will prevail for Lawrence Brose with your help.

Sincerest regards,

The Defense Fund Team
defensef...@lawrencebrose.com

www.lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com


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[Frameworks] Defense of Lawrence Brose - The Censorship Show

[defensefund]

Dear friends and supporters,

This is a new Call for Work being sent out by Termite TV for filmmakers to
create a film/video response to Lawrence’s case.  Please see below and
spread as far as possible.

The Censorship Show

Triggered by the case against experimental filmmaker Lawrence Brose,
Termite TV (www.termite.org) is producing a show about art and censorship.

Background: Lawrence Brose is an internationally-known award-winning gay
experimental film artist who has created over thirty films since 1983. In
November 2009, Lawrence was charged in federal court with possessing
internet images of child pornography, including 100 images from his most
famous, internationally-shown film, DE PROFUNDIS. Despite maintaining
complete innocence, Lawrence lost his job as Executive Director of CEPA
Gallery; was forced to hire a lawyer, which depleted all his savings; and
many of his freedoms, such as the freedom to travel have been severely
restricted. Since the arrest many facts have to light that call the
charges against him into question. A detailed description about the case
can be found at http://lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com/. A good article
about the case, “The United States vs. Lawrence Brose: A Butterfly on the
Wheel” by William Altreuter can be found here:
http://www.artvoice.com/issues/v11n45/guest_essay

Purpose of program: In this program we seek to show our solidarity with
Lawrence Brose by addressing some of the pertinent issues this case raises
(such as artistic censorship, prosecurial overreach, freedom of speech,
criminalization of gay art), as well as related issues connected to
Lawrence and his artwork. As this case is still ongoing Lawrence himself
cannot be interviewed for this program. Experimental work is welcome.  We
are interested in pieces that captures some aspect of the emotional and
intellectual impact of this case and the events surrounding it. Please
contact coordinating producers Dorothea Braemer at dorot...@termite.org or
Joanna Raczynska at raczynska.joa...@gmail.com to discuss your idea before
you submit work.


Deadlines:

Friday, March 29: Proposals for show segments (segments should be no
longer than 5 minutes long) – Please contact us via e-mail to discuss your
idea!

Friday, July 26: Finished pieces are due.
August/September: Show will be assembled.
September/October: Premiere screening

We look forward to hear from you!

Dorothea Braemer (dorot...@termite.org)
Joanna Raczynska (raczynska.joa...@gmail.com)



We cannot express our gratitude enough for the outpouring of help.  There
is a growing momentum of support, but we do need to remind all supporters
that we need to raise a significant amount of money to defend Lawrence's
innocence and help him reclaim his life.  Lawrence's legal defense has
depleted his life's savings.

Tax deductible donations to Lawrence's defense can be made through the
National Center for Reason and Justice.   http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/

NCRJ works for child-protective laws based on science, fairness, and good
sense, and supports people who are falsely accused or convicted of crimes
against children.

Also, please visit the defense fund website
http://lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com/ The website continues to update
with supportive testimonials and contributions to the art sale to benefit
Lawrence's defense.

To all who are receiving this email, please let us know if you do not want
to receive these updates.

For everyone else, PLEASE SHARE THIS WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND COLLEAGUES.  We
also invite supporters to send us their comments and suggestions for
spreading the word and seeking support.  We are confident that justice
will prevail for Lawrence Brose with your help.

Sincerest regards,

The Defense Fund Team
defensef...@lawrencebrose.com

www.lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com


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[Frameworks] Thank you from Lawrence Brose

[defensefund]

Dear Friends and Supporters of Lawrence Brose,

At this time of the year, the Defense Fund Team, working hard for
Lawrence's exoneration, wish to take this opportunity to thank all who
have helped in so many ways.

Notable artists, writers and arts administrators who have lent your name
in his support have helped in countless ways. You have given Lawrence the
gravitas of support so that others can notice the importance of what is at
stake with this case.

Authors of letters of support, you should know that your words put
Lawrence's life and career in a worthy context for others to learn about. 
These letters, placed on the Defense Fund website for all to read, are
testimonials to your character as witnesses to injustice who are willing
to take a public stand against the ruination of an important artist and
genuine human being.  The value of your words is inestimable.

Colleagues who have been supportive in helping to interpret the
intricacies of the court system should know how vital your help has been
for Lawrence.  Seemingly Byzantine, it often takes an informed, long view
to appreciate how a lengthy defense may be working in your favor. 
Lawrence knows he cannot do this alone and your guidance is beyond
helpful.

Supporters who have sent in financial donations should know that you have
kept this case alive and made it possible for Lawrence to obtain proper
counsel for this difficult case, and to hire computer forensic experts to
bring exculpatory evidence to the surface.

Friends who have been there for Lawrence cannot possibly appreciate the
importance of your presence in his life.  You have made it possible for
Lawrence to walk through this nightmare day after day.  It can feel very
lonely in his position, but your calls and time spent with Lawrence make
all the difference and given him the confidence to fight for his
innocence. Reminding Lawrence that he has a life worth living is
priceless.

Organizers of fundraisers and film screenings have expanded supportive
networks as well as raise the desperately needed funds to defend
Lawrence's innocence, but also make the point that artists can support
each other against unjust government forces that have unlimited resources.
And, it is important to remember to give thanks to all who take it upon
themselves to share the developments of this case with everyone possible
through personal and professional networks and social media.  You should
know your efforts do work to spread the word and brings in more support.

Artists who have made donations to the Art Sale for Lawrence's Defense
Fund, you realize the chilling effect this case will have on other artists
in their cultural exploration and artistic expression.  Your support will
help guarantee that artists continue to work without self-censorship and
fear of the government.

Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, the National Center for Reason and
Justice advocating for Lawrence deserves a special thanks.  NCRJ has added
credence to Lawrence's claim of innocence and put his case in the context
of others who are either charged on the basis of bad laws or wrongly
accused.  The work NCRJ does is brave and vital to Lawrence's fight for
his life, deserving all of the support we can give them.

Lawrence wishes to thank all of you.  He has hope that the New Year will
bring good news and put this all behind us.  You should know that your
efforts are gratefully appreciated and acknowledged by Lawrence and his
Defense Team.

All the best to you and yours,

The Lawrence Brose Defense Fund Team



We cannot express our gratitude enough for the outpouring of help.  There
is a growing momentum of support, but we do need to remind all supporters
that we need to raise a significant amount of money to defend Lawrence's
innocence and help him reclaim his life.  Lawrence's legal defense has
depleted his life's savings.

Tax deductible donations to Lawrence's defense can be made through the
National Center for Reason and Justice.   http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/

NCRJ works for child-protective laws based on science, fairness, and good
sense, and supports people who are falsely accused or convicted of crimes
against children.

Also, please visit the defense fund website
http://lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com/ The website continues to update
with supportive testimonials and contributions to the art sale to benefit
Lawrence's defense.

To all who are receiving this email, please let us know if you do not want
to receive these updates.

For everyone else, PLEASE SHARE THIS WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND COLLEAGUES.  We
also invite supporters to send us their comments and suggestions for
spreading the word and seeking support.  We are confident that justice
will prevail for Lawrence Brose with your help.

Sincerest regards,

The Defense Fund Team
defensef...@lawrencebrose.com
www.lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com


___
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[Frameworks] New article on Lawrence Brose case test

[defensefund]

Please take a moment to read this compelling article that was just
published this week and please send it out to your network.  It is so
important that we get the word out.

Here is the link: http://artvoice.com/issues/v11n45/guest_essay



We cannot express our gratitude enough for the outpouring of help.  There
is a growing momentum of support, but we do need to remind all supporters
that we need to raise a significant amount of money to defend Lawrence's
innocence and help him reclaim his life.  Lawrence's legal defense has
depleted his life's savings.

Tax deductible donations to Lawrence's defense can be made through the
National Center for Reason and Justice.   http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/

NCRJ works for child-protective laws based on science, fairness, and good
sense, and supports people who are falsely accused or convicted of crimes
against children.

Also, please visit the defense fund website
http://lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com/ The website continues to update
with supportive testimonials and contributions to the art sale to benefit
Lawrence's defense.

To all who are receiving this email, please let us know if you do not want
to receive these updates.

For everyone else, PLEASE SHARE THIS WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND COLLEAGUES.  We
also invite supporters to send us their comments and suggestions for
spreading the word and seeking support.  We are confident that justice
will prevail for Lawrence Brose with your help.

Sincerest regards,

The Defense Fund Team
defensef...@lawrencebrose.com
www.lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com


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[Frameworks] News from the Lawrence Brose Defense Fund 10/09/12

[defensefund]

Dear Friends,

We are pleased to announce that Lawrence has been invited to give an
artist's talk at an upcoming screening of DE PROFUNDIS this November 13,
2012, at Harvard University. The circumstances surrounding this event are
worth noting. As some of you may know, when Lawrence was indicted and
arraigned, a number of restrictions were placed on his personal freedom.
He is subject to drug and alcohol testing, for example. His home is
regularly visited by a probation officer. He is not allowed to have a cell
phone-- or even a wireless handset in his home. There are a number of
petty annoyances that have become a part of his regular life, even though
he has not been convicted of anything. One of the chief constraints on his
freedom is that he is not allowed to travel outside of Western New York.

Lawrence and his lawyers had to go to court for permission in order for
this artist to attend a screening of his work at one of the leading
institutions of higher education in the world. It has come to this:
Lawrence's Legal Defense Fund is needed for him to do the work of an
artist while his legal team works on his case. Lawrence is an innocent
man, but the legal system deliberately operates to marginalize his
existence as a person and as an artist.

Your continued support of this cause represents your continued support for
the cause of artistic freedom. On behalf of the Lawrence Brose Legal
Defense Fund thank you for standing with Lawrence, and thank you for your
contributions.

William C. Altreuter
Altreuter Berlin
Market Arcade Complex
617 Main Street
Buffalo, New York 14203



With these letters of support, generous donors helped raise over $18,000. 
We cannot express our gratitude enough for this outpouring of help.  There
is a growing momentum of support, but we do need to remind all supporters
that we need to raise a significant amount of money to defend Lawrence's
innocence and help him reclaim his life.  Lawrence's legal defense has
depleted his life's savings.


Tax deductible donations to Lawrence's defense can be made through the
National Center for Reason and Justice.   http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/ 
NCRJ works for child-protective laws based on science, fairness, and good
sense, and supports people who are falsely accused or convicted of crimes
against children.

Also, please visit the defense fund website if you wish to donate
directly: http://lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com/.  The website
continues to update with supportive testimonials and contributions to the
art sale to benefit Lawrence's defense.

To all who are receiving this email, please let us know if you do not want
to receive these updates.

For everyone else, PLEASE SHARE THIS WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND COLLEAGUES.  We
also invite supporters to send us their comments and suggestions for
spreading the word and seeking support.  We are confident that justice
will prevail for Lawrence Brose with your help.

Sincerest regards,

The Defense Fund Team
defensef...@lawrencebrose.com
www.lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com


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[Frameworks] September Update on the Lawrence Brose Defense Fund

[defensefund]

Dear friends and supporters of Lawrence Brose,

This brief note will update you on some recent developments and events in
raising awareness and funds for Lawrence's defense.

The Lawrence Brose Legal Defense Fund website has been revamped and now
includes the letters of support that have gone out to the public and are
easily read on the website.  These letters are perfect for sharing with
anyone who wants to learn about Lawrence - his work, his character and the
generous support from people who know him personally and professionally.

Also recently posted on the website is the list of Notable Supporters. 
These are people who are well known in the world of art and culture who
stand publicly as supporters of Lawrence in the face of these false
accusations from the Department of Homeland Security.

The Double Negative Collective recently sponsored a fundraising screening
of Lawrence's major film De Profundis at Excentris's Cinema Parallele in
Montreal, which is an indication of how far news of this case is going,
and the scope of support for Lawrence.  Toronto also screened De Profundis
earlier in the year. Thank you, Canada!

De Profundis will be screened in New York at the Harry Hay Centennial
Conference that is hosted at the Graduate Center for Lesbian and Gay
Studies on September 28.  Present for a panel discussion at the screening
will be Keith Gemerek, a New York photographer and Lawrence's assistant in
the production of De Profundis, Sarah Schulman, co-founder of the New York
Mix Festival which screened many of Lawrence's earlier film work, and
Judith Levine from the National Center for Reason and Justice, which has
set up an Artist Fund for the advocacy of persons falsely accused of sex
crimes.

In Buffalo, NY, Hallwalls Contemporary Arts Center will host a screening
of De Profundis on October 26th.  Please visit their website for
additional details at: http://www.hallwalls.org

We cannot stress enough how important it is for each of us to reach out to
our personal and professional contacts to spread the word that our
government is damaging the lives of many people in its role as a protector
from terrorism.  And in Buffalo it is Artists who seem to be the biggest
targets.  Steve Kurtz's charges are another outrageous example of
over-reach with false and damaging charges.
Please remember that financial donations are critical to winning this
fight for justice.  No amount is too small, but the legal costs are
astronomical and your help is greatly appreciated.  Everyone's freedom is
at stake.  Thank you for your continued support and spreading the word.



With these letters of support, generous donors helped raise over $18,000. 
We cannot express our gratitude enough for this outpouring of help.  There
is a growing momentum of support, but we do need to remind all supporters
that we need to raise a significant amount of money to defend Lawrence's
innocence and help him reclaim his life.  Lawrence's legal defense has
depleted his life's savings.


Tax deductible donations to Lawrence's defense can be made through the
National Center for Reason and Justice.   http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/ 
NCRJ works for child-protective laws based on science, fairness, and good
sense, and supports people who are falsely accused or convicted of crimes
against children.

Also, please visit the defense fund website if you wish to donate
directly: http://lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com/.  The website
continues to update with supportive testimonials and contributions to the
art sale to benefit Lawrence's defense.

To all who are receiving this email, please let us know if you do not want
to receive these updates.

For everyone else, PLEASE SHARE THIS WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND COLLEAGUES.  We
also invite supporters to send us their comments and suggestions for
spreading the word and seeking support.  We are confident that justice
will prevail for Lawrence Brose with your help.

Sincerest regards,

The Defense Fund Team
defensef...@lawrencebrose.com
www.lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com


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[Frameworks] Caroline Koebel on the Lawrence Brose case

[defensefund]

More and more people are standing with Lawrence in his fight against the
unjust prosecution which has been brought against him. Please join us in
supporting him by making a contribution to the Lawrence Brose Defense
Fund.  The urgency of this appeal cannot be stressed enough.  In the
letter below, filmmaker and scholar Caroline Koebel brings her voice to
support Lawrence's defense.


Dear Friends,

The struggle of filmmaker and non-profit arts leader Lawrence Brose to
defend himself against allegations by the federal government on “child
pornography possession” continues despite the flimsiness of the
prosecution’s case and the recommendation in June 2011 of United States
Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy to dismiss the indictment.

The resources funneled into the prosecution are staggering, and this case
is one clear example of the mishandling of taxpayers’ dollars. It
represents the unfair and wrongful pursuit of an innocent man and
furthermore it distracts from the real work that needs to be done in order
to protect children.

It is a great relief to know that Lawrence has as his attorney Paul J.
Cambria, Jr., who is highly experienced in arguing cases before the U.S.
Supreme Court. Readers will be familiar with Attorney Cambria’s defense of
another Buffalo-based artist facing federal prosecution, Steve Kurtz of
Critical Art Ensemble, and the eventual triumph of that defense. At the
same time, it is no mystery that a strong legal defense requires a steady
flow of financial resources.

Brose, a native son of Buffalo born and raised in a working-class Irish
Catholic neighborhood of the city’s industrial South Side, is broke. He no
longer holds his position as Executive Director of CEPA Gallery, and
despite spending the entirety of his retirement savings on his defense, he
has incurred tremendous debt.

To try to measure the good he has done for Buffalo is a ridiculous feat.
As an internationally honored filmmaker, artist, and non-profit cultural
advocate, he could have moved anywhere—and the fact that he chose his
hometown over NYC, Los Angeles, or Berlin shows his allegiances. His
affirmation of self through collective empowerment in the form of
creative, educational and cultural opportunities for a wide demographic
has been made clear again and again.

When I moved to Buffalo in the late ‘90s, Lawrence welcomed me
wholeheartedly. Our films had played at some of the same festivals, but
this was our first chance to meet in person. I soon learned that the depth
of his film artistry is matched by the sincerity and strength of his
person. The personal and professional exchange that followed remains a
high point of my Buffalo years.

Lawrence is one of the most humane individuals I have had the honor of
knowing directly. He is also one of the most resilient: despite
unfathomable personal loss (he has mourned the untimely deaths of several
life partners as well as siblings), his capacity to love and to share
remains untarnished. Witness, for example, his devotion to CEPA Gallery,
which flourished under his helm.

Now is the moment to support Lawrence Brose! Please find details about
donating to his defense and other ways to help below.


Thank you!

Caroline Koebel
Faculty, Transart Institute (New York & Berlin)



With these letters of support, generous donors helped raise over $17,000. 
We cannot express our gratitude enough for this outpouring of help.  There
is a growing momentum of support, but we do need to remind all supporters
that we need to raise a significant amount of money to defend Lawrence's
innocence and help him reclaim his life.  Lawrence's legal defense has
depleted his life's savings, and he is currently unemployable in this
situation.


Please remember that tax deductible donations to Lawrence's defense can be
made through the National Center for Reason and Justice.  
http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/  NCRJ works for child-protective laws
based on science, fairness, and good sense, and supports people who are
falsely accused or convicted of crimes against children.

Also, please visit the defense fund website if you wish to donate
directly: http://lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com/.  The website
continues to update with supportive testimonials and contributions to the
art sale to benefit Lawrence's defense.
To all who are receiving this email, please let us know if you do not want
to receive these updates.

For everyone else, PLEASE SHARE THIS WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND COLLEAGUES.  We
also invite supporters to send us their comments and suggestions for
spreading the word and seeking support.  We are confident that justice
will prevail for Lawrence Brose with your help.

Sincerest regards,

The Defense Fund Team
defensef...@lawrencebrose.com
www.lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com


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[Frameworks] Elizabeth Licata's letter of support for Lawrence Brose

[defensefund]

More and more people are standing with Lawrence in his fight against the
unjust prosecution which has been brought against him. Please join us in
supporting him by making a contribution to the Lawrence Brose Defense
Fund.



June 17, 2012

Regarding Lawrence Brose:

The continued prosecution of Buffalo-based artist Lawrence Brose is
unnecessary, cruel, and completely unjustified - at least, not according
to anything that I know about him and his work. I know how hard it is for
anyone to admit that they may have made a mistake, but it is high time for
those who are investigating Lawrence to take a step back and consider
whether there is a real case here.

I am very familiar with the work of this artist. I have seen his completed
films and the raw material that was used in created them. I have also seen
photography that was to be used in work that he has not yet completed.  I
reviewed all this material prior to writing several articles about his
work, including a review of his film, De Profundis that was published in
the prestigious media journal Afterimage in 1998. I have recently heard
that images from that film are among those being called into question. If
so, that is frankly ridiculous; De Profundis is a highly acclaimed art
film that has been seen by audiences all over the world.

Art is not always easy to understand. And anyone is certainly justified in
not liking an artwork, or even being repelled by it.  I will not go into a
list of all the artworks that have been labeled “obscene” over the past
100 years and are now hanging in places of honor in museums, except to say
that it is a long list. What I will do is say that I have seen and
respected the work of Lawrence Brose for almost 30 years. I have also
known, liked, and respected Lawrence as a person for every one of those
years.

He has my full support.

Yours,

Elizabeth Licata
Past President, Squeaky Wheel/Buffalo Media Resources





With these letters of support, generous donors helped raise $15,000.  We
cannot express our gratitude enough for this outpouring of help.  There is
a growing momentum of support, but we do need to remind all supporters
that we need to raise a significant amount of money to defend Lawrence's
innocence and help him reclaim his life.


Please remember that tax deductible donations to Lawrence's defense can be
made through the National Center for Reason and Justice.  
http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/  NCRJ works for child-protective laws
based on science, fairness, and good sense, and supports people who are
falsely accused or convicted of crimes against children.

Also, please visit the defense fund website if you wish to donate
directly: http://lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com/.  The website
continues to update with supportive testimonials and contributions to the
art sale to benefit Lawrence's defense.

To all who are receiving this email, please let us know if you do not want
to receive these updates.

For everyone else, PLEASE SHARE THIS WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND COLLEAGUES.  We
also invite supporters to send us their comments and suggestions for
spreading the word and seeking support.  We are confident that justice
will prevail for Lawrence Brose with your help.

Sincerest regards,

The Defense Fund Team
defensef...@lawrencebrose.com
www.lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com


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[Frameworks] A message from a Lawrence Brose supporter

[defensefund]

Dear Friends,

I was at the member's preview of the Albright-Knox Gallery's new show
Thursday night, "Wish You Were Here: The Buffalo Avant-garde in the
1970's". Our friend Lawrence Brose was asked by the Gallery to act as a
docent and it was good to see him doing one of the things he does best,
advocating and explaining art. Lawrence has been an important part of the
cultural scene here in Western New York, and his legal difficulties have
forced him to be absent for too long.

As you may know if you have been following his case, matters are presently
approaching a critical phase. The federal magistrate has been conducting
evidentiary hearings, and a trial is immanent. More and more exculpatory
information has been made public, and it is becoming clear that Lawrence
was singled out for prosecution because of his art and his status in the
arts community. Lawrence has always maintained his innocence, and his
substantive and procedural defenses look strong.

Unfortunately, in order for Lawrence to prevail he must pay his lawyers
and the computer forensic experts who will testify in his defense. Many of
us have already contributed to his defense; many have been waiting for the
right moment. For those of you who have been waiting, now is the time. For
those of us who have already helped this cause, won't you please consider
another donation? The exoneration of an innocent man is as worthy a cause
as there is, and any contribution would be gratefully received.

William C. Altreuter
Altreuter Berlin
Market Arcade Complex
617 Main
Buffalo, New York 14203

**

Please remember than donations to Lawrence's defense can be made through
the National Center for Reason and Justice.  
http://ncrj.org/lawrence-brose/  NCRJ works for child-protective laws
based on science, fairness, and good sense, and supports people who are
falsely accused or convicted of crimes against children.

Also, please visit the defense fund website if you wish to donate
directly: http://lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com/.  The website
continues to update with supportive testimonials and contributions to the
art sale to benefit Lawrence's defense.

To all who are receiving this email, please let us know if you do not want
to receive these updates.

For everyone else, please share this with your friends and colleagues.  We
also invite supporters to send us their comments and  suggestions for
spreading the word and seeking support.  We are confident that justice
will prevail for Lawrence Brose with your help.

Sincerest regards,

The Defense Fund Team
defensef...@lawrencebrose.com
www.lawrencebroselegaldefensefund.com


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