Digitized records aim to shed new light on historic case
The U.S. government has released thousands of newly digitized files connected to the 1968 assassination of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. This move follows an executive order issued during the second term of former President Donald Trump, mandating the declassification of documents related to King’s death as well as the assassinations of John F. Kennedy and Robert F. Kennedy.
Details from the release and public reaction
According to officials, more than 230,000 files were made public. These include FBI investigation records, internal agency memos, and information on James Earl Ray, who was convicted of King’s murder. The documents also mention Ray’s former cellmate, who reportedly discussed an alleged assassination plan with him.
King’s family responded by urging the public and researchers to interpret the material within its full historical context. In a joint statement, Martin Luther King III and Bernice A. King stated that their father was subjected to an extensive campaign of surveillance and disinformation, led by the FBI under J. Edgar Hoover. While they support transparency and accountability, they warned against using the documents to misrepresent their father’s legacy.
The family also reiterated their longstanding doubts about Ray’s conviction, suggesting he may have been framed. They indicated they would carefully review the newly released files to see if they provide any additional insight beyond their existing conclusions.
The release comes amid ongoing public calls for access to other classified records, including those tied to high-profile investigations involving figures like Jeffrey Epstein.
