Criminal Podcast: "The Family Land, Part 2" – Detailed Summary
Introduction
In the second installment of "The Family Land," Criminal delves deeper into the harrowing story of Melvin Davis and Lycurtus (Ly) Curtis, two brothers from Carteret County, North Carolina, who spent nearly eight years incarcerated for refusing to vacate their ancestral land. Hosted by Phoebe Judge, this episode explores themes of legacy, legal injustice, and familial resilience.
Background of the Land Dispute
Melvin Davis and Ly Curtis lived on Silver Dollar Road, a 65-acre property owned by their grandfather for over a century. Upon his death in 1970 without a will, the land became heir's property, a common issue in the South where nearly a third of Black-owned land falls into this category. Hereditary ownership created vulnerabilities, allowing disputes and manipulations in land ownership.
The Conflict Begins
In 1978, Shedrick, the brothers' great-uncle, attempted to claim 13 acres of the family land. He eventually sold this portion to Adams Creek Associates, a real estate developer. Melvin and Ly Curtis were residing on this sold land and were subsequently ordered by a court to vacate, dismantle their homes, and clear the property—a mandate they vehemently opposed.
Arrest and Family's Response
In 2011, defying the court order, Melvin and Ly Curtis were arrested for civil contempt after refusing to demolish their homes. Kim Doohan, the nieces of Melvin and Ly, described the family's determination:
“We pretty much said we weren't going down without a fight. And if it meant them being incarcerated, that was what they were going to do.” (02:21)
The brothers' refusal was rooted in a deep-seated connection to their land, upheld by their family's legacy and their grandfather's dying wish:
“Whatever you do, don't let the white man have my land.” – Mamie Riels, sister of Melvin and Ly Curtis (02:52)
Struggles in Legal Representation
Kim Doohan faced immense challenges securing legal assistance. Amid personal hardships, including her husband's colon cancer diagnosis, she recounted:
“Attorneys had already heard about our story and didn't want to get involved... charging us stupid amounts for consult fees.” (05:25)
Her efforts were compounded by instances of harassment, such as tampered car parts and unwarranted traffic stops, which she felt were targeted to undermine her support for the brothers.
Life in Jail
Melvin and Ly Curtis endured harsh conditions during their nearly eight-year incarceration. Ly became ill, developing diabetes and suffering from shackling, while Melvin experienced profound emotional distress:
“I was depressed because it seemed like it was taking too long for them to clear it up.” – Melvin Riels (17:29)
Their mother, Gertrude, aged rapidly under the strain, transforming from a joyful matriarch into a reclusive figure overwhelmed by worry.
Legal Battle and Supreme Court Involvement
In 2015, attorney James Hairston took on the brothers' case. Recognizing the unprecedented nature of their prolonged detention for civil contempt, he argued against the notion that Melvin and Ly Curtis needed to sign a document renouncing their rights to the land to secure their release. Hairston contended:
“You can't force somebody to say something that they're otherwise inclined not to say... that's a rank and egregious violation of the First Amendment.” (23:12)
His advocacy led to the case being escalated to the North Carolina Supreme Court, which eventually overturned the original ruling, acknowledging the brothers' rightful ownership and flawed legal process.
Release and Aftermath
After seven years and eleven months, a court judge released Melvin and Ly Curtis, criticizing the judicial system's entanglement with the "good old boy network":
“I'm not holding these men here. They should have been released a long time ago... I'm going to do what's right and release these gentlemen.” – Carteret County Judge (23:59)
Upon their release, Melvin expressed overwhelming relief and emotional release:
“I really had to shed a tear. It was a good, it was a.” – Melvin Riels (24:20)
Current Status and Future Concerns
Despite their release, the family's struggle is far from over. Adams Creek Associates later sold the land to another developer, raising fears about potential redevelopment, increased property taxes, and further erosion of family ownership. Additionally, as heir's property complicates inheritance, future generations face the risk of losing their stake through uncontrollable circumstances.
Mamie Riels highlighted the uncertainty:
“We really don't know because we've been told so much, hoped for so much.” (25:26)
The younger generation, including Kim Doohan's grandchildren, remain connected to their heritage, symbolizing the enduring legacy and the hope that future family members will continue the fight to preserve their ancestral land.
Personal Reflections and Hopes
Melvin expressed a deep longing to return to his home and cherished spaces:
“That I'd be able to go back to my house and mail them. Go back to the club.” (27:58)
However, legal restrictions currently prevent him from accessing his property, leading to emotional turmoil as he yearns to reconnect with his roots.
Conclusion
"The Family Land, Part 2" offers a poignant exploration of systemic injustice, familial bonds, and the relentless pursuit of rightful ownership. Through Melvin and Ly Curtis's ordeal, Criminal sheds light on the broader implications of heir's property and the enduring impact of historical legacies on African American families.
Notable Quotes:
- Kim Doohan (02:24): “And if it meant them being incarcerated, that was what they were going to do.”
- Mamie Riels (02:52): “Whatever you do, don't let the white man have my land.”
- Melvin Riels (05:03): “I knew I was going to have to put all both feet on the ground and start running to get some assistance.”
- James Hairston (23:37): “You can't force somebody to say something that they're otherwise inclined not to say... that's a rank and egregious violation of the First Amendment.”
Further Resources:
- Original transcript and visuals can be accessed at This is Criminal.
- Detailed reporting by Lizzie Presser on the Reels family story is available for deeper insight.
Connect with Criminal:
- Website: thisiscriminal.com
- Social Media:
- Facebook & Twitter: @criminalshow
- Instagram & TikTok: @criminalpodcast
- YouTube: Criminal Podcast
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This summary was crafted to provide a comprehensive overview of "The Family Land, Part 2" episode of Criminal, capturing the essence of the Reels family's struggle and resilience. For the most immersive experience, listening to the full episode is highly recommended.