Jan 11, 78 • Georgetown-State • 0147

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O 111940Z JAN 78
FM AMEMBASSY GEORGETOWN
TO SECSTATE WASHDC IMMEDIATE 56005
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E.O. 11652: N/A
TAGS: CASC (STOEN, JOHN)
SUBJECT: W/W JOHN STOEN
REF: GEORGETOWN 0092

1. Arguments reported para three reftel were concluded at hearing held Jan 10. Consul talked with attorneys from both sides. They informed him that judge has reserved his decision on motions that order of arrest against Jim Jones be voided and motion by Stoen’s attorney for order of habeas corpus be issued against Joyce Touchette. Neither attorney knew how soon judge would make his decision known.

2. Clarence Hughes, the Stoen’s local attorney, appeared optimistic that judge would issue order of habeas corpus against Joyce Touchette to appear in court with John Stoen. If she does not accept service then after a suitable period he believes court will order her arrest. Hughes thought that even though case now appears to be back to square one they have progressed in pinning down responsible individual (Joyce Touchette) who is presumably John Stoen’s guardian in Guyana. Hughes hoped case would then proceed to logical conclusion of returning John Stoen to the custody of his parents.

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3. Both attorneys commented that judge during the hearing stated that earlier on Jan. 10 he and his clerk had received telephone calls from individuals whose voices sounded American asking about the case. He emphasized to all participants that he will decide this case solely on the law and the facts presented in court.

4. Both Timothy Stoen and Hughes told Consul that they are satisfied with the progress made in the case. Hughes is convinced that the judge will not allow himself to be influenced against the Stoens by outside influences. Timothy Stoen also agreed with his attorney that judge appears unbiased.

Burke

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