Accused Moor representing himself has case dismissed

by Shaka S. Lias The Daily Tribune News

A man representing himself had his case dismissed Wednesday during an unusual jury trial in Bartow County Superior Court.

Michael Eric Harris appeared before a six-member jury to argue the charge of operation of vehicle without current revalidation decal.

Harris, who referred to himself as a Moorish American of the Republican, repeatedly told Judge David Smith that he is not a member of the American society and that the jurors were not his peers.

According to court testimony from Michael Fitz, a Euharlee Police officer, Harris was stopped May 21 on Interstate 75 near mile marker 285 for having a headlight out. Upon a check of his tag, it was discovered the tag was expired and a citation was issued.

Fitz testified to state attorney Bratcher Stewart that Harris was driving a black Dodge Dakota on the night he was stopped. However, when cross-examined by Harris, paperwork showed the listed vehicle was a Toyota Corolla.

“It seems like something is wrong here,” Harris told the jury.

Fitz said it must be a mistake made by the courts because his paperwork shows a black truck with two occupants.

Harris suggested to Smith that the case be dismissed, and he agreed.

“Case dismissed. You’re not guilty,” Smith told Harris, adding that he got a fair jury trial.

“I’m not aware of the Moorish people you claim to be, but one thing I can guarantee is when you come to Bartow County you will get a fair trial,” Smith said.

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