Nov. 7, 1986

James Mason, a member of the College’s custodial staff for 29 years, was stopped by police on Oct. 3 because his license plates had expired. During a routine computer check, police determined that he was a fugitive from an Alabama correctional institution from which he escaped in 1956.

Mason contends he was falsely confirmed of armed robbery in Birmingham in 1955. He was serving an 11-year sentence on a robbery conviction when he escaped.

Alabama officials have indicated to Governor Celeste’s office that they intend to send a formal request for Mason’s extradition to Alabama. As of last Thursday, no request had been received.

College President S. Frederick Starr wrote letters of support for Mason to the Governor of Alabama and to Celeste. “Mr. Mason has been an effective and conscientious employee of Oberlin College for the past 29 years. During that time he has served the College as a custodian in a completely satisfactory manner and has had a completely trouble-free record,” the letters said.

Starr’s letter ended with, “I hope you will conclude that no benefit to society will result in returning Mr. Mason to prison after all these years.”

After the office receives Alabama’s extradition paper’s, Mason’s counsel will be notified and given the opportunity “to submit a written statement of the grounds on which the fugitive wishes to contest extradition.”

Ruth Johnson, president of the Oberlin College Employees Association, has been raising funds for Mason’s attorney fees. She said, “We are raising money to help Jack so that his attorney can do what he can to keep him home.” Johnson is also circulating petitions attesting to Mason’s good character.

There was a “pray-in” in Tappan Square Oct. 12 in support of Mason. About 30 people attended, the majority of whom were from the Oberlin Community.