New York (State). Office of the Special Prosecutor

Tawana Brawley, a black 15 year old from Wappingers Falls, New York, claimed in November 1987 that she was kidnapped, sexually abused and raped by six white men. The accused were unnamed police officers. Upon her discovery after a four-day absence she and her mother, Glenda Brawley, refused to cooperate with investigating authorities, claiming racism and demanding a prosecutor of their choice. This strategy, undertaken on advise of counsel, led to nationwide media attention. This included widespread speculation on Brawley's supposed exploitation by a cadre of advisors; allegations of a law enforcewment coverup; and discussion of general social and legal bias against rape victims. Major participants in the case included prosecutor Steven Pagones; Brawley's attorney Alton H. Maddox; and advisor Al Sharpton. A grand jury concluded Ms. Brawley's claim was a fabrication and dismissed the case during the autumn of 1988.

From the description of Tawana Brawley case investigation records, [ca. 1989-1991] (New York State Archives). WorldCat record id: 84612036

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