Great story Ron. On the face of it, it seems like a tragedy, and I hope the truth comes out. I'm really glad he uses his artistic talents, and hope he gets to see a real course before he dies.
Little story - I was an alternate on a jury - charge was dealing drugs and assorted other felonies. I had holes all over the prosecution's case - the police work was shoddy and the evidence didn't add up. I hated the fact that as an alternate I couldn't say anything, and I was excused after final arguments. My peers found the defendant guilty, but I'm telling you, I would've championed his case big time in deliberations.
That said, I love his artwork and wish him the best.