Innocence Prevails: Analyzing Steve Harmon's Case in "Monster"

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Being wrongfully accused of a crime is a terrifying thought for anyone. In the novel "Monster" by Walter Dean Myers, the protagonist Steve Harmon finds himself in this exact situation, facing a trial for felony murder. Despite the accusations against him, I firmly believe that Steve Harmon is innocent for several reasons that are evident throughout the story.

The first compelling reason that supports Steve Harmon's innocence is the fact that he did not know the alleged accomplice, Bobo Evans. In the novel, it is revealed that Steve and Bobo had never met or even heard of each other before the incident.

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This lack of familiarity between the two individuals raises doubts about Steve's involvement in the crime. If Steve had no prior connection to Bobo, it seems unlikely that he would have conspired with him to commit a felony.

Furthermore, another key point that points to Steve Harmon's innocence is the unclear situation at the drugstore where the robbery took place.

Testimonies from witnesses indicate that the drugstore was not properly cleared before the crime was committed. This suggests that Steve was not involved in ensuring the coast was clear for the robbery. If Steve had been the lookout as alleged, he would have taken the necessary steps to ensure the store was empty, which was clearly not the case.

Additionally, the absence of any signal from Steve further supports his innocence. In the novel, it is mentioned that Steve was supposed to give a signal if there were any individuals present in the drugstore.

However, there is no evidence to suggest that Steve provided any such signal. This lack of communication indicates that Steve was not actively participating in the planning or execution of the robbery.

While some may argue that Steve Harmon's presence at the drugstore on the day of the robbery incriminates him, it is essential to consider the context of his visit. Steve's innocent explanation of entering the drugstore to purchase mints and leaving shortly after does not prove his involvement in the crime. Mrs. Henry's presence in the store during the robbery further supports Steve's claim that he was not actively participating in the criminal activities.

In conclusion, the evidence presented in the novel "Monster" by Walter Dean Myers strongly suggests that Steve Harmon is innocent of the charges brought against him. By analyzing the lack of acquaintance with Bobo Evans, the unclear situation at the drugstore, the absence of a signal from Steve, and the context of his presence at the store, it becomes evident that Steve's innocence should be acknowledged. By finding Steve Harmon innocent, he can pursue his passion for filmmaking and lead a fulfilling life free from the constraints of wrongful accusations.