The U.S. Supreme Court yesterday rejected 2,000 pending appeals. Included in that stack was Mumia Abu-Jamal's request for a new trial — he was convicted of killing a Philadelphia cop 27 years ago after a much-disputed series of events. His arrest and conviction, which supporters say was the result of racism, inspired a movement. A federal appeals court has already granted Mumia, who was sentenced to death, a new sentencing hearing. Prosecutors have the option of appealing the sentencing hearing order. [CNN]