Topic: Graham Craddock

Attorney General Janet Reno approved the final assault plan on April 17, 1993. The FBI's internal stipulations for using CS gas included orders to back off if children were threatened, yet also stated that the presence of a child would not stop the insertion of gas. In the days leading up to the fire, the FBI denied the residents batteries for their word processor while delivering typewriter ribbons and, for the first time, unsolicited mail for the children.

In the subsequent trial in San Antonio, eleven Branch Davidians were acquitted of conspiracy to murder federal agents, yet many received lengthy prison sentences on gun charges. Judge Walter Smith is criticized for ignoring the jury's verdict and imposing 40-year sentences on five defendants. Currently, nine individuals remain in prison, including Paul Fowler, who received 15 years despite not being present during the final raid.

The Davidians' legal battle moved toward the Supreme Court, focusing on the 30-year mandatory minimum sentences added to the weapons charges. Supporters argue that since the defendants were acquitted of the underlying violent crimes, the "use of a firearm" enhancement should be invalid. Figures like Graham Craddock remained imprisoned despite claims that they never fired their weapons during the 51-day siege.