“I am the real George Zimmerman. On Sunday February 26th, I was involved in a life altering event which led me to become the subject of intense media coverage. As a result of the incident and subsequent media coverage, I have been forced to leave my home, my school, my employer, my family and ultimately, my entire life. This website’s sole purpose is to ensure my supporters they are receiving full attention without any intermediaries.”
The announcement by Zimmerman continues: “It has come to my attention that some persons and/or entities have been collecting funds, thinly veiled as my “Defense Fund” or “Legal Fund.” I cannot attest to the validity of these other websites as I have not received any funds collected, intended to support my family and I through this trying, tragic time.”
Zimmerman says further that he had created a Paypal account linked to the website as “I would like to provide an avenue to thank my supporters personally, and ensure that any funds provided are used only for living expenses and legal defense, in lieu of my forced inability to maintain employment.”
Zimmerman’s attorneys have confirmed to NBC News that the site created on Sunday is operated by Zimmerman himself.
The site carries a quote from sociologist James W. Loewen: “People have a right to their own opinions, but not to their own facts. Evidence must be located, not created, and opinions not backed by evidence cannot be given much weight.”
A grand jury scheduled for the case has been cancelled and the special prosecutor appointed by the State Governor Rick Scott has issued a statement saying that she would continue to retain the authority of deciding whether Zimmerman should be charged or not.