Harrison Explains Position In Controversial Photograph

The trial of Coleman P. Harrison '74 went into its seventh day yesterday as the defendant again testified that he was not in the vicinity of the disturbance during which he allegedly assaulted and robbed a Boston policeman.

The incident allegedly took place at the top of the stairs of the Boston Welfare Department building during a demonstration last May 7.

Harrison testified Monday that he did not go to the top of the stairs at any time during the demonstration. He said that he remained on a landing 15 feet away from the disruption. However, on cross-examination, the prosecution produced a photograph showing that Harrison had one foot on a step above the landing.

William P. Homans Jr. '41, Harrison's attorney, yesterday questioned the defendant about the picture. Harrison testified that the photograph showed that he had his weight on his back foot in an attempt to prove that he was not preparing to go up the steps. He said he was resting his foot on the next step.

Molly E. Backup '72, a witness for the defense, testified yesterday that photographs she had taken showing Harrison on the landing represented the disruption. Earlier in the trial the defense had offered her pictures into evidence along with still from a WBZ-TV film.

Backup also testified that the disruption began shortly after welfare mothers had emerged from the welfare building. She stated that she noticed them coming out because one of her friends was among the group of mothers.

Patrolman Thomas L. Matthews, the policeman claiming that Harrison assaulted and robbed him, testified yesterday that the photographs showed scenes prior to the disturbance. He said that the pictures represented events 30 minutes before the incident when welfare mothers were entering the building.

Patrolman George Fisk, a witness for the prosecution, said yesterday that he arrested Harrison after the defendant had "grabbed his partner" around the neck.

Harrison testified Monday that he was arrested when he lapped a policeman on the shoulder to ask him to stop "violently" handling another protester.