Bryant Purvis is one of six former students at Jena High School in Jena, Louisiana, who came to be known as the Jena Six. Purvis was initially charged with attempted second degree murder in connection with his involvement in the beating of white classmate Justin Barker on December 4, 2006.
Jena Six Case
In December, 2006, Purvis, along with five other fellow black students, allegedly attacked white classmate Justin Barker, sending him briefly to the hospital. Earlier in the school year, three white students had been suspended for placing nooses under a tree on the grounds of Jena High School, and several racially charged incidents had occurred throughout the semester.
Charges and Aftermath
After the December attack, Purvis and four of his alleged fellow attackers were charged with attempted second degree murder. The charges sparked outrage among African-Americans and others who felt the charges were disproportionate to the crime. Purvis's charges were later reduced to aggravated battery. Purvis pleaded not guilty to the reduced charges.
Arrested in Texas
In February, 2008, Purvis was again arrested, this time in Texas, for an assault he allegedly committed on the grounds of Hebron High School in Carrollton.ABC News: Jena 6 Defendant Facing New Charges (February 8, 2008)
