Why did the townspeople mock Tom/Muff but believe Injun Joe?
That makes no sense whatsoever.
Tom might have been somewhat of a delinquent brat,and Muff a drunk that didn't amount to much.But wasn't Injun Joe well known for being a liar,thief,and even reputed murderer BEFORE he framed Muff?
Despite their flaws Tom and Muff actually seem to be nice and decent people.
Both of them seemed to get along great with people at times.
But everyone seemed to stay clear of Joe because of fear.But yet everyone took his testimony as truth at once,and even wanted to hang Muff on the spot.