Letter From Congressman Bill Pascrell

May 23, 1997

UNITED STATES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
WASHINGTON, D.C.
29510-3003

BILL PASCRELL,JR.
NEW JERSEY

MR. ROBERT B. ROGOFF
PASSAIC, NEW JERSEY

Dear Robert:

I am very grateful for the time you have taken to familiarize me with Jonathan Pollard's case. While neither of us condone espionage, I agree with you that Mr. Pollard's treatment and sentence seem to be disproportionately harsh. I am particularly struck by the fact that Mr. Pollard's sentence, life without parole, is much more severe than the sentence received by the notorious John Walker, the ringleader of a spy network which gave top secret military information and data to the Soviet Union.

I am writing to inform you that I intend to add my voice to those who are calling for the commutation of Mr. Pollard's sentence. I am going to contact President Clinton on this matter and urge him to commute Mr. Pollard's sentence to the twelve years he has served. It is clear to me that Mr. Pollard's crime was motivated by a genuine fear for the people of Israel. He has paid severely for his action.

Thank you for bringing this to my attention and for all the information you have provided me about Mr. Pollard. Your commitment to Mr. Pollard's case is really admirable. I am confident that, with supporters such as you, Mr. Pollard will soon be free.

Sincerely,

Bill Pascrell, Jr.


Note: Congressman Bill Pascrell is the representative of the Eighth Congressional District in New Jersey.