O 070005Z NOV 79
FM SAN FRANCISCO (89-250) (P) (SQ. 1)
TO DIRECTOR (89-4286) IMMEDIATE
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UNCLAS
RYMUR
For information Bureau, SA Donald R. Hale and AUSA D. Michael Nerney traveled to Guyana during week of October 30, 1979. During the visit of Hale and Nerney met with Director of Public Prosecutions, prosecutor, Magistrate and police officials as well as Ambassador and Embassy officer. They observed court proceedings and were present during entire testimony of United States witnesses Vern Gosney and Odell Rhodes.
Prosecution indicated that plea-bargaining in Layton matter distinct possibility in that murder charge conviction is doubtful. Hale and Nerney of opinion that Layton will be indicted for murder of Ryan as well as related charges but
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that conviction of murder of Ryan would be most difficult however, attempted murder conviction most probable. After indictment, trial is tentatively scheduled in January, 1980.
San Francisco continuing efforts to persuade Dale Parks to return to Georgetown, Guyana, to testify at preliminary hearing of Layton. Prior to departing Georgetown, SA Hale and AUSA Nerney conferred with Director of Public Prosecution, prosecutor, and defense attorney, who all agreed that November 12, 1979 date would be set aside in the event our government was able to persuade Dale Parks to return.
Dale Parks was contacted by Special Agent, FBI, and advised he would not travel to Guyana, however, after discussion by Special Agent, detailing personal experience, observations and guarantees by GOG of immunity, he advised he may reconsider and will give final answer by November 9, 1979 next.
Should Parks decide to return, he is requested as has Alfred L. Hartman [Hantman], Special Litigation Counsel, Criminal Division, Department of Justice, that SA Hale travel with witnesses for his appearance.
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Bureau is requested to approve SA Hale’s travel should witness Parks agreed to return to Guyana.
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