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LYNCH VERDICT CLOSES PROBE
State Can Take No,. Further Action, Lane Declares
So far as the State of Maryland is concerned, the Salisbury lynching case is closed, Attorney General William Preston Lane said today.
The report late yesterday by the Wicomico County grand jury that it had found "absolutely no evidence that can remotely connect anyone with the instigation or perpetration of the murder" of Matthew Williams, Negro, on Dec. 4 constitutes the final chapter in the story, Mr. Lane said.
"I have decided to make no comment on the jury's report," the Attorney General said. "The jury examined 128 witnesses. After considering their testimony, it reports that it can find 'absolutely' no evidence to connect, even 'remotely, anyone with the crime. The grand jury, under the laws of our state, is supreme within its territory. I believe no comment from me is necessary."
Mr. Lane pointed out that he had participated in fie lynching investigation at Governor Ritchie's direction rather than upon any request from the authorities'of Salisbury or Wicomico County. His position in such a situation, he explained, is more that of assistant than director of any investigation.
Mr. Lane said that, in his opinion, the only possibility that the
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