A judge in South Dakota says state prosecutors can introduce evidence about Leonard Peltier in the trial of two people accused of the December 1975 murder of American Indian Movement activist Anna Mae Pictou Aquash.

Prosecutors say Peltier allegedly confessed to the murder of two FBI agents before a group of AIM supporters, including Aquash. Peltier also allegedly threatened Aquash at gunpoint.

Both pieces of evidence point to a possible motive for Aquash's murder, the judge said. Defense attorneys for John Graham, 53, and Thelma Rios, 64, tried to keep the evidence out of their upcoming trial, which is due to start November 29.

Aquash was murdered on the Pine Ridge Reservation. The state charges stem from activities that occurred in Rapid City, off the reservation.

Get the Story:
Judge rules to allow alleged Peltier confession in 1975 AIM slaying case (AP 8/12)

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