Tag Archives: Michael Piaskowski

Two Veterans…One Personal Mission…

On this Veterans Day we honor those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country. I’d like to also pay tribute to two Veterans in particular that not only served dutifully in the Army but who have dedicated their lives to serving in other important ways as well.

It’s been my absolute privilege to have known these two distinguished gentlemen; Exoneree Michael “Pie” Piaskowski and Retired Crime Scene Expert Johnny Johnson.

Allow me to explain how they met:

“Johnny introduced himself when they walked in. His attention soon zeroed in on the hat Mike Pie was wearing, which revealed he had served in the US Army. Johnny was an army veteran too, which gave them plenty to talk about. They soon realized that they had served in a similar area in Vietnam. “Assisting veterans is what I do,” Johnny said that day. For a brief time, Johnny had assisted my neighbor, Ken, with veteran’s concerns. It is why I ran into him at my mailbox, and it was why I had the opportunity to ask for his help. There was no mistaking the bond already forming between Johnny and Mike Pie or the opportunity that this instance presented—Johnny’s ability to aid this veteran in his personal mission.”  – Excerpt from Reclaiming Lives

After realizing their similar connection they became close friends and together, fought another important uphill battle or personal mission if you will, closer to home. What occurred as a result of this partnership and their collaborations with many others is nothing short of AMAZING.

Read the full story in my book, Reclaiming Lives:

Kirk House Publishers

Amazon 

Or simply purchase through PayPal on this website (at the top right corner of this page).

THANK YOU!

Mike Pie and Johnny Johnson; two regular guys taking a breather in the midst of an important mission. Photo taken at the 2016 Hotrod Breakout fundraiser/car show in Minnesota.

Final Steps Toward Freedom…   

This is a collect call from… “Michael.” To accept charges…press one.

(Beep) Connection established.

“Hello Joan and Mike,” the familiar voice said…

Michael Hirn, an innocent man imprisoned for over twenty-three years, was calling from McNaughton Correctional Center; a minimum security prison in Tomahawk, WI. The previous evening, he had tried calling us three times. Regrettably, my husband, Mike and I had missed those calls. Between bouts of sleep that night, I pondered the most likely reason for them. Maybe Michael was actually going to be paroled after all…

Michael had alluded to this possibility in a few of his recent letters but I was skeptical. Aside from Michael Piaskowski’s exoneration in 2001, only one other of these men has ever been paroled. All other bids for parole by Piaskowski’s co-defendants have repeatedly been denied…until extreme circumstances forced the hand of the Wisconsin Parole Commission in September of 2017. At that time Dale Basten, the oldest of the men (aged 77), was given what is called compassionate release; “…a process by which inmates in criminal justice systems may be eligible for immediate early release on grounds of particularly extraordinary or compelling circumstances.” (Wikipedia) I believe Dale’s deteriorating physical and mental capacity coupled with mounting medical bills were the only motivating factors for his release. Tragically, Dale passed away the following year in June of 2018.

 Mike and me with Dale Basten during a prison visit on 12-27-2015

WBAY story about Dale’s release.

WBAY story about Dale’s passing.

The next morning I emailed Tom, also a close friend of Michael’s. They spoke on the phone often so he’d know what was up. Sure enough, Tom confirmed my suspicions. “Mike was calling to let you know that he’s been granted parole,” Tom wrote. “He wanted to tell you himself.” Tom also explained that Michael would most likely be released….and soon.

As Mike and I eagerly waited for the automated system to connect us, I almost wished we didn’t know yet what Michael had tried to call us about. I felt we had robbed him of being the first to deliver this surprise. Still, trying to imagine how he must be feeling gave me goosebumps. But another voice deep within warned me to be cautious about the likelihood of his actual release. I was under the assumption that being granted parole required admitting guilt for the given crime and showing remorse. And I knew from talking to each of the men that they will never sacrifice their integrity by admitting to something they did not do. The question remained in my mind. Was the parole board really going to overlook this non-admission of guilt?

During our brief conversation Michael reiterated what Tom had said. He reassured us that he was going to be released the week before Christmas. He thought it would happen on Wednesday, December 19th. After our conversation, it started to sink in that this was becoming a reality. “This is our next miracle,” I said to my husband.

Michael and his family wanted his discharge to be private. They only wanted to be left alone, to relish in this triumph without the intrusion from the media or from those with less savory opinions. But that idea was squashed when news stories and articles started to surface about Michael’s impending release. I only found out that this information had reached the media through a text I received from a local reporter from WBAY looking for a comment. At first there was mere speculation about a specific time frame but more accurate details slowly surfaced and circulated to various news outlets in Green Bay. It was looking like this would happen on Tuesday, December 18, 2018 at 8:00 a.m. Mike and I discussed travel plans. We were not about to miss one of the most extraordinary steps of this journey that we were on!

Mike and I, my sister, Clare and her boyfriend, Gary checked into a motel near the prison on Monday night. The following morning I was scheduled to do an early interview with Steve Hopper, photojournalist from WBAY Ch. 2 (Green Bay), Shortly after seven a.m. Mike and I spotted Steve’s vehicle just outside the prison gates as dawn’s earliest light began to appear. Our friend Deb was there also. Clare and Gary showed up a little later. We all piled into warm vehicles after the interview was over. We waited…

My interview with photojournalist Steve Hopper     

A short time later a man pulled up in a gray pickup and parked along the opposite side of the road from us. He glanced in our direction with a pained look. I could see he was on the verge of tears. As he climbed out of his vehicle and headed in our direction, I was fairly certain that it was Michael’s Aunt Marlene and Uncle Terry’s son, Randy. He and I had communicated through emails prior to that day and Randy assured me that he’d be there that morning. As I walked toward him he asked, “Are you Joan?” “Yes,” I said. He hugged me tight and expressed his deep gratitude. We both did our best to contain the tears.

Meeting Randy

The mood lightened a bit as the others gathered around to meet Randy and to share in this awe-inspiring moment. “My parents are up by the prison entrance waiting for Michael to come out,” Randy said. He then drove up the driveway in that direction hoping to also be there to support them. We all followed in our cars and parked in the visitor lot. I opened my door and heard Randy’s voice. “They are in their eighties,” Randy pleaded with the corrections officer. “I want to be there with them.” Unfortunately all of us, including Randy, were asked to go back and park on the road outside the gates.

The gates as you enter McNaughton Correctional Center

Finally…at approximately 7:45, we caught sight of a bright red pickup truck coming toward us down the driveway from inside the prison gates. The truck stopped just short of passing through them. Michael Hirn, looking taller and slimmer than we remembered, exited the passenger side of the vehicle and walked with dignity as he took his final steps on foot toward freedom. He was leaving the McNaughton Correctional Center and prison life for good.

Michael Hirn walking toward freedom. (Photo courtesy of WBAY)

I describe those steps as his final ones because Michael had taken many of them over the years to achieve this goal. I felt it necessary to point that out when asked to submit a comment for this Green Bay Press Gazette article. Published days before Michael’s release, I felt these words adequately summarize the true character of this man: “People must understand that this (parole) was not simply handed to him,” said Treppa, who met all six men as part of the research for a book of her own, Reclaiming Lives: Pursuing Justice For Six Innocent Men. “He earned it through hard work, diligence, patience and a positive attitude. I believe that, in moving forward, being angry over something he cannot change will never define who this man is.”

My first hug from Michael after he was freed, with Clare and Randy looking on

With only the utmost respect for someone who is destined to become an effective spokesperson for the other men, I offer this recurring mantra found in many of Michael Hirn’s letters to me: “I’m serious about my intentions to be an advocate for prison reform once I’m exonerated,” he would write. I believe that his understanding of the dynamics of this case, his ability to curb his anger over these unlawful convictions, and his sheer determination to forge ahead, will open up new avenues to exoneration for them all.

Mark Saxenmeyer; producer of the up and coming docuseries titled Guilty Until Proven Innocent (highlighting stories of wrongful conviction including the Monfils case), his videographer, Joe Pollock, and Steve Hopper (WBAY) were set up and ready to record this important and historic event that infers increased hope of eventual freedom for the remaining incarcerated men. Hoping for an opportunity to actually speak with Michael, they stood patiently and respectfully on the sidelines, filming, snapping photos, and capturing poignant moments amid hugs, tears, smiles and relief as we all gathered to congratulate this now free man on this remarkable day.

The awesome procession we witnessed as Michael was escorted off of the prison grounds was indescribable…and appropriate. In fact, during our visit with Michael on April 18, 2015, Mike and I had the pleasure of meeting the two people who were given that opportunity. We will never forget this encounter which captures the essence and the scope of this ongoing tragedy:

Forty minutes into our visit, a guard came to ask if it was okay for two other visitors to join us. Michael’s Aunt Marlene and Uncle Terry arrived at the front desk. I had met a few of Michael’s closest family members—his son, Tyler, and stepfather, Mike Dalebroux. And each year we receive a Christmas card and newsletter from Michael with a picture of him and Tyler. Mike Dalebroux comes to our Walks and speaks highly of his stepson. Marlene and Terry have shown their support over the years by driving a long distance to visit Michael. When they came into the lounge, Michael introduced us and mentioned my involvement. Marlene thanked and hugged me as tears filled her eyes. Looking at Michael, she remarked, “I don’t know how you maintain such a positive attitude under these circumstances.” Michael said it was the support from us and many others that kept him strong.

Michael smiled in the photos we’d had taken. Marlene and Terry opted out of engaging in any. “We are waiting until after Michael is released,” Marlene said. – Excerpt from Reclaiming Lives

Fox Lake Correctional where Mike and I first met Marlene and Terry during our visit with Michael Hirn in 2015

What makes Michael’s release particularly extraordinary aside from its realization…is its delay. Years after the verdicts were rendered and prior to his retirement in 2004, Judge James Bayorgeon (original 1995 trial judge) wrote an open letter to the Parole Commission on behalf of each of the six men, with this directive: “I believe (insertion of each name) should be granted parole at the earliest possible date.”  But given the fact that Michael Hirn’s first bid for parole in 2010 was denied, and that all successive bids for parole since have been denied, it appears that this directive has been blatantly ignored by the Commission for far too long. With Michael’s unexpected release, I am very encouraged that the tide is now changing in this regard.

And rightly so. The list of facts suggesting the absolute innocence of all of these men is quite long. These few details related to Michael’s wrongful conviction are just the tip of the iceberg in a case plagued with missteps and illegal actions perpetrated by the authorities. During the original investigation into the Monfils case, Michael Hirn readily took four polygraph tests. In fact, he and all six of these men took multiple tests and passed them all. In my book I describe an instance where the lead detective tried (in vain) to disrupt at least some of those tests while they were being administered. Michael also pushed for FBI involvement during the investigation. Although the FBI was involved initially, their inquiry was brief. Why? The reasons for this are still unclear. Even now, many common sense questions remain unanswered about this case. One I hear often suggests the unlikelihood that these men would remain silent all of these years when sharing crucial information about Tom Monfils’ death could increase their chances for parole. And why would a guilty person push for FBI involvement?

And while the quest to free the remaining three men continues, we focus on the positive, and cherish the gifts given to us at a moment’s notice. We stand tall alongside our fellow crusaders in times of utter grief and unbelievable joy. Because this is the right thing…the only thing to do!

So while Michael was being interviewed the day of his release, I reminisced with Marlene and Terry about the memory of the prison visit. “Now you can finally have your photo taken with Mike,” I said excitedly to Marlene. The smile that appeared on her face was worth a thousand unspoken words. And similar to the visit at the prison which now felt like a thousand lifetimes ago, Marlene thanked me as she clung to me and to the newfound joy in her heart…as tears once again filled her eyes.

(L to R) My husband Mike, Randy, Marlene, Michael Hirn, me and Terry. Taken at the Beacon’s of Minocqua, the resort where Michael was employed as part of a work-release program. Michael wanted to show us the 24′ tree (behind us) that he helped to decorate. He also wanted to say “goodbye” to Mary, the resort director, and to everyone he befriended during his employment at the resort 

Shorter version of story about Michael Hirn on WBAY.

Longer version of story about Michael Hirn on WBAY.

For additional information about this case i.e., news clips, court briefs, etc. check out The Monfils Case Revisited on the sidebar.

Read about Michael and the other five men by ordering my book on Amazon or on this website (top right) to receive a signed copy. Thank you!

Ignoring Looming Threats…

The gates opened at nine am. Rain clouds persisted as a procession with cars of all shapes, colors and models formed. Thunder rumbled in the distance. But despite the looming threat overhead, the 3rd annual Hotrod Breakout Car Show/Benefit for the Minnesota Innocence Project (IPMN) was about to begin. Adults and children alike were showing up in modest numbers to experience this unique event designed to create awareness about an issue that devastates families across the country. Rain clouds threatened to ruin our activities but the real threat comes from ignoring situations that ruin lives such as the lasting effects caused by wrongful convictions.

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Triplets with baby sister in tow 

A structured program commenced at ten am. Brenda Kutska spoke first. She shared her family’s personal misfortune of dealing with a wrongful conviction. Her Father-in-law, Keith Kutska, was wrongfully convicted along with five other men in 1995 of a murder they did not commit. Keith and four others have been in prison for twenty years. There was no anger or malice, only hope in Brenda’s tone as she spoke of the many years her family has lived with no expectations of ever seeing freedom for Keith. Her ability to stay positive is due to renewed hope fueled by recent legal help for Keith. Each time Brenda paused to catch her breath, a respectful audience waited. Even as they heard about circumstances many of them could not relate to, their hearts were deeply touched. And after hearing about this type of injustice, something they never considered before, they applauded her candidness.

At eleven am it was time for me to try out a new platform-a forty-five minute panel discussion with four exonerees; Audrey Edmunds and Mario Victoria Vasquez from Wisconsin, and Mike Hansen and Koua Fong Lee from Minnesota. Julie Jonas, legal director for the IPMN would join me in introducing our exonerees, along with giving us a sense of what her organization does. There were a few sprinkles of rain in the air, but we proceeded as planned.

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Joan Treppa, exonerees Audrey Edmunds (11)*, Mario Victoria Vasquez (17)*, Mike Hansen (6)*, Koua Fong Lee (3)* and IPMN director Julie Jonas 

Julie introduced Mike and Koua; two exonerees whose cases she had personally worked on. She quickly summed up the lengthy legal processes to free them. I introduced Audrey and Mario. I shared their circumstances and how we had met. We touched on the experiences of all four; the initial crime they were accused of, life in prison, how they found help and what their lives are like now. There was laughter and sadness. There were pleas to stay cognizant that these injustices exists and of the importance of supporting organizations like the Innocence Project. Before long, the clouds dispersed and the sun appeared.

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Exonerees Mario Vasquez and Koua Fong Lee 

Following the discussion at approximately 11:55, something unexpected happened. I was leaving the stage when a gentleman approached. He and his wife had been driving by on the highway when they spotted our event. They felt compelled to stop. The husband presented me with a challenge to match all donations raised by 12:15 up to $1,000! He asked that I make an immediate announcement. I signaled to Chuck, our DJ, to pause the music. As I waited I wondered if we’d come close to collecting that amount or if we would lose out on this rare opportunity. The crowd was small and I had my doubts. But I made the announcement and hoped for the best.

At 12:15 a handful of us counted; $100…$200…$300…and so on all the way up to $1,000 and then some! We had done it and this couple assured us they would be sending a check. Although they wanted to remain anonymous, we couldn’t help but gather around to thank them for their generosity.

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Exoneree Mike Hansen with girlfriend Shaylee and son Keegan 

Still excited about our great fortune, I prepared for the second and final panel discussion at one pm with Attorney Steve Kaplan and Mike ‘Pie’ Piaskowski. They discussed the Wisconsin Monfils case. Mike Pie is the only one of six co-defendants (including the previously mentioned Keith Kutska) to be exonerated. Steve has been actively pursuing freedom for Keith for the past two+ years. At the last minute I asked my good friend and colleague, Johnny Johnson, to join us for this discussion because he is the retired private investigator who aided in compelling Steve to take on this case. I gave a quick case summary and proceeded with the discussion. Mike Pie shared his personal experience as the accused. Steve talked about the legal process of representing Keith. Johnny shared his viewpoint as an outside investigator and explained the proper techniques of interpreting evidence, conducting an investigation, and his personal observations about this case. Steve also discussed the recent hearing for Keith in July of 2015 and what to expect in the coming months.

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Joan Treppa, Steve Kaplan, exoneree Mike Piaskowski (5.5)* and Johnny Johnson 

Both panel discussions were informative and eye-opening for those who gathered to listen. Both elicited reactions of dismay in regards to our judicial system and empathy towards the victims present that day. I felt that what we were doing was making a difference and helping the victims heal just a little bit more by affording them this opportunity.

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Exoneree Mario Victoria Vasquez with Julie Jonas and her children Sarah and Sam 

Amenities included two food vendors and Jeff Lee of ‘Art For You’. Jeff promised to donate 15% of his earnings that day to our cause. He sold four pictures. Chuck Brost, our DJ for ‘Tunes To Go’, was amazing as always.

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Tater Boss Tater Tots

I am pleased to report I received checks from both the couple and from Jeff Lee. I had also received additional personal checks in the mail prior to and after the show. We raised a grand total of $3,080.50 which exceeded last year’s total. We are thankful to General Manager, Sue Stang, of Route 65 Classics (which will be renamed Unique Classics on 65 as of September 1, 2015) for allowing us free access to their facility.

The show ended with numerous awards for the best cars. Plaques and trophies were courtesy of friends, Pat and Rosemary Bonnett. They were handed out by Audrey Edmunds and Mario Victoria Vasquez. To truly appreciate this incredible experience you’ll have to come to next year’s show. I hope to see you then…

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Best in Show Award

* ( ) Total years of sentence each exoneree served.