I’ve received a ton of emails the last 24 hours about the arrest of a longtime environmental activist in Cincinnati. At this stage, as is usually the case right after arrests, it’s hard to know exactly what’s going on. I think it’s important to get this information out, but also caution against speculation.
That being said, Marie Mason was arrest Monday morning, and at the same time FBI and the Department of Homeland Security searched her home and detained her 16-year-old daughter. A few months ago, Indymedia websites were buzzing with stories claiming that a GPS tracking device was placed on Mason’s car, and that she was detained at gun point.
We have confirmed Marie is being held in the Butler County jail (southwestern Ohio) pending transfer to Michigan. She is being held on suicide watch which we believe is just another tactic of the state to break her down and further isolate her from friends and family.
Federal agents are contacting people on Marie’s cell phone list claiming they are contacting folks on Marie’s behalf to pass along information. We want everyone to know this is bullshit. We were able to briefly speak with Marie, who despite the current situation is in good spirits. Marie is not asking the state to contact anyone on her behalf. Realize if you know/knew Marie your contact information was likely seized when they raided her house. Understand these are old-school COINTELPRO style tactics that have been historically used to disrupt and confuse support networks and activist circles. Stay focused, stay safe, and don’t talk to law enforcement no matter how innocent it may seem.
At this time there’s a lot we don’t know. Please understand speculation, rumors, and hearsay help no one. We will be forthcoming with confirmed information on Marie’s current situation as it becomes available.