PUTNEY-I am deeply concerned about the case of Rein Kolts, a man sentenced to 25 years in prison by a Vermont jury in 2017 for the alleged rape of a 13-year-old. While the severity of such a crime cannot be understated, there are troubling aspects of this case that demand immediate attention and investigation.
First, Kolts has shared evidence that the alleged victim has reportedly denied the allegations, raising serious questions about the validity of the conviction. Additionally, Kolts presents that the prosecution withheld crucial DNA evidence that implicated another man in the assaults. According to Kolts, he is beginning to get traction for an appeal.
At 84 years old, Kolts has spent the past 18 years maintaining his innocence, and he now faces the added injustice of inadequate medical care. Wellpath, the prison medical contractor for Vermont, is well documented for withholding necessary medical treatment, which in his case will prevent him from clearing his name.
The Vermont judiciary clearly supports the extrajudicial executions of its incarcerated elderly, but here it looks like we are executing an innocent man.
I urge the community, legal advocates, and authorities to call for a thorough and impartial investigation into Kolts's case. The integrity of our justice system depends on ensuring that every individual, regardless of their circumstances, is afforded fairness and due process. If there is even a possibility that an innocent man is being selected for medical execution, we have a moral obligation to act.
Let us not allow this case to fade into obscurity. Rein Kolts deserves a chance to receive the care he needs and prove his innocence. It is never too late to seek the truth and uphold justice.
Ben Mitchell
Putney
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