Transcript of James ‘Whitey’ Bulger’s remarks
Aug 2, 2013, 7:12 PM
(AP) – Transcript of the exchange Friday between Judge Denise Casper and reputed mobster James “Whitey” Bulger:
Casper: OK, Mr. Bulger, I just want to address you directly. You understand that this is the juncture of the case at which I ask for a decision about whether or not you’re going to testify. Mr. Carney has just represented on your behalf that you’re choosing not to testify.
Bulger: Correct.
Casper: Is that correct?
Bulger: That is correct.
Casper: And have you done that after careful consideration, sir?
Bulger: Yes, I have.
Casper: Have you done it after consultation with your attorney?
Bulger: Yes.
Casper: And are you making this choice voluntarily and freely?
Bulger: I’m making the choice involuntarily because I don’t feel _ I feel that I’ve been choked off from having an opportunity to give an adequate defense and explain about my conversation with (now-deceased federal prosecutor) Jeremiah O’Sullivan. For my protection of his life, in return, he promised to give me immunity.
Casper: I understand your position, sir, and certainly you’re aware that I have considered that legal argument and made a ruling.
Bulger: I understand.
Casper: I understand, sir, if you disagree with it, OK?
Bulger: I do disagree, and that’s the way it is. And my thing is, as far as I’m concerned, I didn’t get a fair trial, and this is a sham, and do what youse want with me. That’s it. That’s my final word.
From the gallery: You’re a coward.
Casper: I need silence in the gallery. Thank you. Mr. Bulger, I understand your position, but my question was a simple one about you’ve decided not to testify in this case?
Bulger: That’s my answer.
Casper: OK, you’ve decided not to testify in this case?
Bulger: Correct.
Casper: Thank you.
(Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)
