The decades-long struggle to free falsely imprisoned political prisoner Mumia Abu-Jamal took another step forward Jan. 17 as a Philadelphia judge heard the first of a new round of arguments focusing on the corrupt and unconstitutional handling of Mumia’s case by the Philadelphia Police Department and District Attorney’s office.

In a court case that could eventually lead to Mumia’s freedom, Judge Leon Tucker has ordered the District Attorney’s office to present new testimony in reference to Ronald Castille. The hearing will take place Jan. 17.