This week, the Iraqi government sent police to order the removal of a statue honoring the Iraqi journalist Muntadhar al-Zeidi, who threw a shoe at former President George Bush. The statue’s removal in Tikrit appears to be an effort to show respect to the United States by denying the right of free speech to the Iraqi people.
Archive for January, 2009
Symbolic Shoe Get The Boot in Iraq
Published 1, January 31, 2009 Constitutional Law , Politics , Society 8 CommentsKlingon in the Americas? Vegetarian Wall Street Trader Alleges He Was Fired For Looking Gay
Published 1, January 31, 2009 Bizarre , Society 3 Comments
French financial firm Calyon in the Americas is being sued by Ryan Pacifico who alleges that he was fired because his boss, Robert Catalanello, thought that he seemed gay because he would not eat steak and wore snug-fitting shorts during triathlons. The firm denies the allegation and says that he was fired for performance reasons.
Mehserle Claims Mistake in Bart Shooting of Oscar Grant
Published 1, January 31, 2009 Criminal law , Society , Torts 21 Comments
As expected, ex-transit officer Johannes Mehserle, 27, is claiming that he shot Oscar Grant by mistake in the infamous video from the BART station in Oakland, California. He insists that he thought that his gun was his taser when he shot Grant in the back.
Continue reading ‘Mehserle Claims Mistake in Bart Shooting of Oscar Grant’
Minneapolis Man Files Brutality Case Against Officer for Tasing Him in 2005 — He is Then Killed in 2008 After Being Tased By The Same Officer
Published 1, January 31, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Society , Torts 6 Comments
In 2005, ex-radio DJ Quincy De’Shawn Smith was involved in a confrontation with a police officer that resulted in his being tased. In November, this case was cleared for trial alleging police brutality by the officer. However, Smith, 24, is now dead after being tased in December by the same Minneapolis police officer, Officer Timothy Devick, who was responding to a report of a domestic assault.
Continue reading ‘Minneapolis Man Files Brutality Case Against Officer for Tasing Him in 2005 — He is Then Killed in 2008 After Being Tased By The Same Officer’
Hillary’s Emolument: Lawsuit Filed To Challenge Constitutionality of Clinton Confirmation as Secretary of State
Published 1, January 31, 2009 Congress , Constitutional Law , Politics , Society 19 Comments
The appointment of Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton and her recent confirmation as Secretary of State raises a very interesting constitutional question. As discussed previously here, the Constitution would appear to block Clinton from being able to serve in this capacity under Article I, Section 6. Now, Judicial Watch has filed a lawsuit on behalf of U.S. Foreign Service Officer and State Department employee David C. Rodearmel to make just such a case.
Continue reading ‘Hillary’s Emolument: Lawsuit Filed To Challenge Constitutionality of Clinton Confirmation as Secretary of State’
France Accuses Israel of Blocking Needed Water Purification Equipment for Gaza as Spain Launches War Crimes Investigation
Published 1, January 31, 2009 Criminal law , International , Society 18 Comments
Foreign Ministry Spokesman Eric Chevallier has publicly criticized Israel for allegedly blocking the shipment of a water purification station into Gaza, forcing France to return the equipment to Europe despite the serious health emergency growing in Gaza over contaminated water. Spain for its part has now opened an investigation to look into the allegations of crimes against humanity in how Israel conducted the operation.
Continue reading ‘France Accuses Israel of Blocking Needed Water Purification Equipment for Gaza as Spain Launches War Crimes Investigation’
FDA Opens Criminal Investigation of Peanut Corporation of America
Published 1, January 31, 2009 Criminal law , Society , Torts 1 Comment
As predicted in our earlier entry, the investigation into the salmonella outbreak has now become a criminal investigation of Peanut Corporation of America. Recently, it was learned that company officials knew that prior batches of its product were contaminated but shipped them anyway. The Food and Drug Administration is spearheading the investigation.
Continue reading ‘FDA Opens Criminal Investigation of Peanut Corporation of America’
Let Them Serve Cake: Rudy Guiliani Defends His Economic Plan of Supporting Huge Bonuses to the Few to Feed the Many
Published 1, January 31, 2009 Bizarre , Congress , Politics , Society 31 Comments
Former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani has an interesting trickle down theory. According to Giuliani, the outrageous bonuses for Wall Street figures (many paid for by public funds) are a vital part of economic recovery for average New Yorker. According to Giuliani, the relatively few super rich recipients are a major source of money for the thousands of people who serve their whims and fulfill their wishes for exotic foods, fast cars, and impeccable service. It is basically the same economic theory advanced by that pre-Friedman scholar Marie Antoinette in the eighteenth century but under Giulianiomics, we don’t let the peasants actually eat the cake . . . just serve it.
Robber Charged with Murder After Elderly Lady Has Heart Attack
Published 1, January 30, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law 18 Comments
North Carolina prosecutors are pursuing an interesting felony-murder charge against Larry Whitfield, who is accused of breaking into the home of an elderly lade after an attempted bank robbery and car chase. Whitfield never touched Mary Parnell, 79, but the stress is believed to have caused her heart attack and death.
Continue reading ‘Robber Charged with Murder After Elderly Lady Has Heart Attack’
Don’t Have a Cowpyright, Man: Bart Simpson Shills for Scientology
Published 1, January 30, 2009 Bizarre , Media , Religion , Society 8 Comments
Nancy Cartwright, the voice for Bart Simpson, may be in hot water with Twentieth Century Fox. Cartwright, a committed Scientologist, used the Simpson voice (which is copyrighted) to leave a widely played voice message for Scientologists. The robocall tape is below.
Continue reading ‘Don’t Have a Cowpyright, Man: Bart Simpson Shills for Scientology’
England Set to Make Photographing Police a Crime
Published 1, January 30, 2009 Constitutional Law , Criminal law , Media , Politics , Society 19 Comments
England is about to make it illegal to take photographs of police officers in a continuing trend limiting the free press and free speech in the West. This ill-conceived law, The Counter-Terrorism Act 2008, will take effect on February 16th and “allows for the arrest and imprisonment of anyone who takes pictures of officers ‘likely to be useful to a person committing or preparing an act of terrorism’.” For this crime, you can get up to ten years and a fine.
Continue reading ‘England Set to Make Photographing Police a Crime’
Obama Administration Calls for War Crimes Investigation in Gaza War — But Remains Undecided on Any Prosecution of U.S. War Crimes Under the Bush Administration
Published 1, January 30, 2009 Congress , Constitutional Law , International , Politics , Society 23 Comments
In a striking departure from the Bush Administration, Ambassador Susan E. Rice, US Permanent Representative to the United Nations, called for an investigation into possible war crimes committed by Israel in the recent Gaza fighting. While correctly noting such violations by Hamas, Rice noted that there are now credible accounts that need to be investigated. The question is now whether the Administration will apply the same standard to the investigation and prosecution of war crimes that are now clearly identified in the Bush Administration involving an official torture program.
Continue reading ‘Obama Administration Calls for War Crimes Investigation in Gaza War — But Remains Undecided on Any Prosecution of U.S. War Crimes Under the Bush Administration’
The Whale Speaks: Rove Says That He Will Defy Congress and That Bush Lawyers Told Him Not to Cooperate in the Final Days of the Administration
Published 1, January 30, 2009 Congress , Constitutional Law , Criminal law , Politics , Society 119 Comments
Karl Rove is promising to defy the subpoena issued by John Conyers — citing instructions from Bush lawyers shortly before the end of the Administration. The statement may indicate that President Bush is preparing for a novel fight: asserting executive privilege against the position of the sitting president (who would presumably support Congress in this matter). In the interview, Rove compares himself to the Great White Whale in Moby Dick.
Lawyer and Narc: Ohio Attorney Goes Undercover to Help Police Trap His Client
Published 1, January 30, 2009 Criminal law , Lawyering , Society 11 Comments
If Chevaliee ”Chevy” Robinson, 30, was unhappy about pleading guilty to drug conspiracy and money laundering in Akron a few months ago, he was probably even less happy when he learned the identity of the snitch that helped set him up with the police: his lawyer Frank Pignatelli. Media has learned that Pignatelli found himself implicated in the drug conspiracy and agreed to work undercover with police in stings to incriminate others, including his own former clients. It is an extremely troubling use of a lawyer by law enforcement that the American Bar Association should review.
Continue reading ‘Lawyer and Narc: Ohio Attorney Goes Undercover to Help Police Trap His Client’
Wink and a Nod? Sen. Kit Bond States That Holder Secured His Vote By Privately Promising Not to Prosecute Any War Crimes
Published 1, January 29, 2009 Congress , Criminal law , International , Politics , Society 74 Comments
Sen. Christopher “Kit” Bond (R., Mo.), the vice chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, has told The Washington Times that Eric Holder privately assured him that there would be no prosecution of Bush officials for torture or unlawful acts. The story is reminiscent of last week’s statement by Gen. Michael Hayden that he was assured by President Obama that there would be no investigations or prosecutions allowed for war crimes committed by the Bush Administration. I discussed this story and the recent ACLU demand for the release of the torture and surveillance memos on this segment of Countdown.
Police Officer Drives After Drinking, Crashes Into Fountain, Flees the Scene of an Accident, Abandons Car with Gun Inside, and Then Lies to Police . . . And Is Charged With Criminal Damage
Published 1, January 29, 2009 Criminal law , Society 8 Comments
Brent Frasier, an eight-year veteran of the Mesa, Arizona police department, is facing remarkably light charges after he crashed his car into a public fountain, fled the scene of the accident and left his car with his badge, Glock handgun, and a clip for an AR15 rifle. He later lied to police about the incident. There has been controversy over the fact that he will be charged with only public damage and false statements in the case.
Obama Starts To Fulfill Faith-Based Promise With $100 Million in Stimulus Package
Published 1, January 29, 2009 Congress , Politics , Religion , Society 15 Comments
One of the items in the stimulus bill that has been overlooked is $100 million in grants for faith-based organizations. As I discussed this week in my column, Obama has pledged to not only continue but massively expand President Bush’s faith-based initiatives.
Continue reading ‘Obama Starts To Fulfill Faith-Based Promise With $100 Million in Stimulus Package’
California Court Rules That Lutheran School May Expel Students as Suspected Lesbians
Published 1, January 29, 2009 Constitutional Law , Politics , Religion , Society , Supreme Court 23 Comments
A California appellate court has ruled that the Riverside County-based California Lutheran High School was permitted to expelled two 16-year-old girls for having “a bond of intimacy” that was “characteristic of a lesbian relationship.” It is a major ruling in favor of free exercise, finding that the religious mission of the school trumped the state’s anti-discrimination laws. Continue reading ‘California Court Rules That Lutheran School May Expel Students as Suspected Lesbians’
Former CIA Station Chief in Algeria Accused of Rape of Two Women
Published 1, January 29, 2009 Criminal law , International , Politics 3 Comments
The former CIA station chief in Algeria is under investigation by the State and Justice departments for the drugging and raping of two women in his home. Reports indicate that videotapes were recovered showing the officer having sex with what appeared to be drugged women.
Continue reading ‘Former CIA Station Chief in Algeria Accused of Rape of Two Women’
Debt Service: California Lawyer Pleads Guilty to Work as Call Girl
Published 1, January 28, 2009 Criminal law , Lawyering , Society 24 Comments
With lawyers and law students getting pink slips in the recession, Cristina Warthen, a Stanford law graduate, had a novel idea to support herself: she ran a high-priced call girl service. Warthen has now pleaded guilty and avoided jail time, agreeing to pay $313,000 in unpaid taxes as a prostitute who went by the name “Brazil.” She will serve a one year sentence of home detention and three years probation. She ran a website featuring her business named TouchofBrazil.net. She has said that the work as a call girl was done to pay off her student loans.
Continue reading ‘Debt Service: California Lawyer Pleads Guilty to Work as Call Girl’
In Fecal Delicto : Californian Man Assaults Lawyer and Jury With Feces in Court
Published 1, January 28, 2009 Bizarre , Courts , Criminal law , Lawyering , Society , Torts 6 Comments
These are the types of dangers that law school simply does not prepare you for. Weusi McGowan, 37, wanted San Diego Superior Court Judge Jeffrey Fraser to replace his public defender Deputy Alternate Public Defender Jeffrey Martin. Fraser refused, so after a break McGowan returned to court and promptly produced a plastic baggie with fecal matter and smeared in on the face and hair of Martin. He then tossed the waste at the jury. The home-invasion robbery suspect got a new trial, a new lawyer, and presumably a new assault charge.
Continue reading ‘In Fecal Delicto : Californian Man Assaults Lawyer and Jury With Feces in Court’
Give Me An Ache, Give Me a Bruise . . . : Wisconsin Supreme Court Rules Cheerleading is Contact Sport
Published 1, January 28, 2009 Society , Torts 23 Comments
The Wisconsin Supreme Court has ruled that cheerleading is a contact sport like footballs and therefore participants cannot be sued for accidentally causing injuries. Brittany Noffke, a former varsity cheerleader at Holmen High School in Wisconsin, sued her spotter after she was allowed to fall backwards off the shoulders of a team member, causing a serious head injury. Continue reading ‘Give Me An Ache, Give Me a Bruise . . . : Wisconsin Supreme Court Rules Cheerleading is Contact Sport’
Homeless Man Steals a $100 Bill From Bank, Turns Himself in the Next Day and Apologizes — and Is Given 15 Years By Louisiana Judge
Published 1, January 28, 2009 Uncategorized 27 Comments
Roy Brown, 54, is a homeless man who said that he was hungry and needed a place to live when he walked the Capitol One bank in Shreveport, Louisiana in December 2007 and stole a single $100 bill. The next day, he turned himself into police, apologized, and said that he was not raised to do such things. After he pleaded guilty, the Shreveport judge then sentenced him to 15 years in prison. In the meantime, former AIG executive Christian Milton defrauded customers of more tha $500 million and was just sentenced to 4 years.
Report: Peanut Corp. of America Knowingly Shipped Contaminated Peanut Butter At Least Twelve Times in the Last Two Years
Published 1, January 28, 2009 Criminal law , Environment , Politics , Society , Torts 12 Comments
Internal documents from the Peanut Corporation of America reportedly show that the company knew that peanut butter was contaminated with salmonella 12 times in the last two years, but shipped out the contaminated peanut butter to customers. The revelation will most certainly increase the liability facing the company from both the government and civil litigants after the death of eight people and the injury to hundreds across the country. Indeed, it would appear that criminal charges may now be warranted.
Snapped: Rep. Peter King Introduces Bill To Require That Mobile Phones Make a Sound When Taking Pictures
Published 1, January 28, 2009 Uncategorized 6 Comments
The United States is facing a worsening recession, an expanding war in Afghanistan, and global warming. Yet, New York Republican Rep. Peter King believes that one of the more pressing matters for Congress should be to require that all cell phones make a click or sound when taking a picture. It is the basis for his “Camera Phone Predator Alert Act” to protect the unwary from the unscrupulous.
Continue reading ‘Snapped: Rep. Peter King Introduces Bill To Require That Mobile Phones Make a Sound When Taking Pictures’
Fun With Fugu: Seven Hospitalized For Eating Bad Blowfish Testicles
Published 1, January 27, 2009 Bizarre , International , Torts 26 Comments
Now, this is a tort that can only be found in Japan. Yes (if you are wondering) there appears to be “good” and “bad’ blowfish testicles. Seven people have been hospitalized after eating the testicles prepared in the Japanese city of Tsuruoka by an unlicensed Fugu chef.
Continue reading ‘Fun With Fugu: Seven Hospitalized For Eating Bad Blowfish Testicles’
Replicating Palin: “SarahPac” Seeks to Elect Allies of Palin in Offices Around the Nation
Published 1, January 27, 2009 Politics , Society 15 Comments
For those who cannot tire of Sarah Palin, relief is at hand. SarahPac is a new political action committee that will be seeking to elect officials around the country who are mavericky enough to be allies of the Alaskan governor. This Palinites will be funded around the country, according th the new website.
Congress Re-Considers D.C. Vote Legislation
Published 1, January 27, 2009 Congress , Constitutional Law , Courts , Politics , Society , Supreme Court , Testimony 35 Comments
This week, I testified again in opposition to the current legislation to create a new form of non-state voting member in the House of Representative for the District of Columbia. The hearing before the House Judiciary hearing was quite lively and it appears that the bill has the votes to pass. My testimony is linked below.
Continue reading ‘Congress Re-Considers D.C. Vote Legislation’
House Judiciary Committee Subpoenas Karl Rove in Critical Constitutional Showdown
Published 1, January 27, 2009 Congress , Constitutional Law , Criminal law , Lawyering , Politics , Society 72 Comments
John Conyers, chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, has subpoenaed Karl Rove to testify about the Bush administration’s firing of United States attorneys. The subpoena could force an interesting constitutional fight since President Obama would now be in a position to waive executive privilege and Attorney General nominee Eric Holder could allow the matter to go to a grand jury. I discussed this issue last night on Countdown in this segment.
Continue reading ‘House Judiciary Committee Subpoenas Karl Rove in Critical Constitutional Showdown’
Fatal “Gasser” at Pleasure Ridge High: Football Coach Charged With Reckless Homicide
Published 1, January 27, 2009 Criminal law , Society , Torts 7 Comments
Jason Stinson, the football coach of Pleasure Ridge High School in Kentucky, has been charged with reckless homicide in the death of a teenage player, Max Gilpin, 15. Gilpin collapsed from heat exhaustion on August 20, 2008 during a practice and died three days later. Gilpin died during a “gasser” where students sprint up and down the field.
Continue reading ‘Fatal “Gasser” at Pleasure Ridge High: Football Coach Charged With Reckless Homicide’
My Totally Radiculous Ride: Fourteen-Year-Old Boy in Chicago Tricks Police Into Giving Him a Squad Car and Assignment for Five Hours
Published 1, January 26, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Society 29 CommentsThe Chicago Police Department is struggling to explain this morning how a 14-year-old boy walked into Grand Crossing District station impersonating a police officer and was given an assignment in a squad car for five hours before anyone realized that he was too young to drive, let one patrol the streets of the city.
Faith-Based Part II: Obama’s Expansion of the Bush’s Faith-Based Programs
Published 1, January 26, 2009 Columns , Congress , Constitutional Law , Politics , Religion , Society , Supreme Court , USA Today 90 Comments
As we approach the one-week anniversary of the Obama administration, it is a bit early to judge the level of true change brought by the 44th president. However, it is becoming increasingly clear what is not going to change (at least for the better) in the Obama administration. With all of the euphoria of the inauguration, many supporters fought back a strange and long-lingering sensation: doubt. There was little room for doubt in the collective celebration of our first African-American president and a new course after a ruinous eight years under George W. Bush.
Continue reading ‘Faith-Based Part II: Obama’s Expansion of the Bush’s Faith-Based Programs’
Christians Can’t Jump: Coach Grimes Fired for Beating Girl’s Basketball Team 100 To 0
Published 1, January 26, 2009 Bizarre , Religion , Society , Torts 69 Comments
Now, this could make for an wrongful termination lawsuit. Micah Grimes, the coach of Covenant School of Dallas, was reportedly fired after refusing to apologize for a 100 – 0 victory of his girls’ basketball team over Dallas Academy. He insists that it is ridiculous to apologize “for a wide-margin victory when my girls played with honor and integrity.” He was fired shortly thereafter.
Continue reading ‘Christians Can’t Jump: Coach Grimes Fired for Beating Girl’s Basketball Team 100 To 0′
New Video Shows A Second Officer Punching Suspect Before Oscar Grant Shot by Johannes Mehserle
Published 1, January 26, 2009 Constitutional Law , Criminal law , Politics , Society , Torts 1 Comment
A new video has emerged in the case of Oscar Grant III, who was fatally shot by former transit police officer Johannes Mehserle in a BART station. The new videotape below shows a second officer, reportedly Tony Pirone, striking one of the detained men (possibly Oscar Grant) on January 1st.
Documents Shows Church Officials in Indianapolis Knew of Repeated Sexual Abuse by Priest But Transferred Him to Other Churches
Published 1, January 26, 2009 Criminal law , Religion , Society , Torts 8 Comments
In shocking documents reviewed by the Indianapolis Star, disclosed evidence shows that the Archdiocese of Indianapolis was fully aware that Father Harry Monroe was molesting numerous boys from 1974 to 1984 and allowed him to continue by transferring him from church to church rather than calling the police or terminating his employment or both.
Continue reading ‘Documents Shows Church Officials in Indianapolis Knew of Repeated Sexual Abuse by Priest But Transferred Him to Other Churches’
Death at the Motor Sports Monster Truck and Thrill Show
Published 1, January 26, 2009 Society , Torts 3 Comments
There has been a second death in a monster truck show this month. In Madison, George Eisenhart Jr., 41, of Chardon, Ohio died after he walked in front of a passing monster truck at the Dane County Coliseum. This is nine days after a boy was killed in Tacoma, Washington by flying debris in a monster truck show.
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Drunken Commodities Broker Attempts to Set WTC Elevator on Fire in Escape Effort
Published 1, January 25, 2009 Criminal law , Society 20 Comments
Ryan Brinkerhoff has a curious way to dealing with being stuck in an elevator. When he found himself unable to get out of the 40th floor of 7 World Trade Center, he decided the best course of action was to spray the interior of the elevator with cleaning fluid and lighting it on fire. The automatic system then forced the elevator to the bottom floor where he was promptly arrested.
Continue reading ‘Drunken Commodities Broker Attempts to Set WTC Elevator on Fire in Escape Effort’
BBC Refuses To Air Appeal for Gaza Aid
Published 1, January 25, 2009 International , Media , Politics , Society 31 Comments
The BBC has officially refused to air an appeal for aid for Gaza from ten international aid groups, including British Red Cross, Oxfam, and Save the Children. The BBC insists that, no matter how crafted, the aid request would undermine its impartiality in covering the conflict. SKY has now joined BBC in the refusal to air any appeal.
Mexico Man in Paris Sues State of Maine in Oxford Court Over Religious Use of Pot
Published 1, January 25, 2009 Congress , Constitutional Law , Courts , Criminal law , Religion , Society , Torts 20 Comments
Norman Hutchinson, 48, is a member of the Religion of Jesus Church who lives in Mexico, Maine. He has filed a lawsuit in the Oxford Courthouse in Paris Maine against the state, the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency and the Mexico Police Department to protect his right to use marijuana for religious reasons.
Continue reading ‘Mexico Man in Paris Sues State of Maine in Oxford Court Over Religious Use of Pot’
Federal Court Rules Against Hasidic Jews Who Challenged Public Housing Rule
Published 1, January 25, 2009 Constitutional Law , Religion , Society 7 Comments
A federal court in Ungar v. New York City Housing Authority, 2009 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 3578 (SD NY, Jan. 14, 2009) has ruled against the claims of a Hasidic group that the New York City Housing Authority should be required to give them preference in allocating units in the Williamsburg section of Brooklyn. They challenged the Tenant Selection Assignment Plan saying that they have religious needs to live near other members of their religious community in Williamsburg.
Continue reading ‘Federal Court Rules Against Hasidic Jews Who Challenged Public Housing Rule’
“¡Yo Quiero Taco Bell Dinero!”: Restaurant Chain Loses Case Over Talking Chihuahua
Published 1, January 25, 2009 Society , Torts 5 Comments
Taco Bell must pay the entirely of a $42 million in breach-of-contract award to the two Michigan men who created the idea of a taco-selling Chihuahua. oseph Shields and Thomas Rinks of Grand Rapids, Mich., prevailed in their claims against the chain as the originators of the “Yo quiero Taco Bell” ads. According to the court, Taco Bell and not its ad company is responsible for the full amount of the damages.
Continue reading ‘“¡Yo Quiero Taco Bell Dinero!”: Restaurant Chain Loses Case Over Talking Chihuahua’
Palin Fan Mistakingly Buys Infamous Effigy on EBay and then Refuses to Pay
Published 1, January 25, 2009 Politics , Society 8 Comments
There is a fight brewing about an Ebay sale after a supporter of Sarah Palin bought an effigy of her by mistake, thinking that it was just another item to add to his Sarah Palin collection. It turned out to be the controversial effigy of Chad Morrisette, a professional window dresser, who hung it in protest. The Palin supporter is now refusing to pay the $2,200.
Continue reading ‘Palin Fan Mistakingly Buys Infamous Effigy on EBay and then Refuses to Pay’
The Goat Did It: Nigerian Newspaper Reports That Cornered Car Thief Turned Himself Into Goat
Published 1, January 25, 2009 Criminal law , Religion , Society 13 Comments
The Vanguard, one of Nigeria’s largest newspaper, has a different take on the conventional crime beat. The newspaper reported how a thief in Kwara state was chased and cornered by vigilantes and promptly turned himself into a goat.
Continue reading ‘The Goat Did It: Nigerian Newspaper Reports That Cornered Car Thief Turned Himself Into Goat’
Chicago Man Sues After Being Held Six Months on False Drug Charges
Published 1, January 25, 2009 Constitutional Law , Criminal law , Society 8 Comments
Anthony Hernandez has sued the Chicago police department after officers arrested him without probable cause on drug charges and then held him for six months in jail. Not only did Hernandez lose his jobs, but he missed the birth of a child. It also turns out that one of the arresting officers, Slawomir Plewa, was stripped of his police powers in 2008 for his involvement in a false arrest.
Continue reading ‘Chicago Man Sues After Being Held Six Months on False Drug Charges’
Booked: Iowa Woman Arrested Over Failure to Return Library Book
Published 1, January 24, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Society 31 Comments
The librarians in Independence, Iowa don’t take kindly to people holding on to their books. Shelly Koontz, 39, probably feels like she has become a character out of Fyodor Dostoevsky’s Crime and Punishment after police arrested her for failing to return a book that she checked out in April. The book value is $13.95.
Continue reading ‘Booked: Iowa Woman Arrested Over Failure to Return Library Book’
Dead Man Standing: Family Fulfills Last Party Wish of Deceased Relative
Published 1, January 24, 2009 Bizarre , Society 18 Comments
Ok, this has nothing to do with the law, society, politics, or policy. It is just sooooo creepy that I have to post it so you will be equally creeped out. Angel Pantoja Medina, 24, was found dead under a bridge in San Juan and his family wanted to fulfill his desire to be standing at his own wake “ready to party.” So, Angel was embalmed in a special way to allow him to be standing and dressed as people put their arms around him and kissed him at the party.
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State Legislator Seeks to Criminalize Bad Language and Droopy Pants
Published 1, January 24, 2009 Constitutional Law , Criminal law , Politics , Society 14 Comments
South Carolina state senator Robert Ford is seeking to criminalize bad language in songs and droopy pants. The former civil rights worker believes that he has the right to dictate the speech and styles of citizens — dismissing any claims of constitutional rights. Indeed, he has proudly proclaimed that “[w]e’re talking about teenagers. They have no rights.”
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Dying Virginia Woman Confesses to Double Murder 42 Years Ago in Ice Cream Shop
Published 1, January 24, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Society 13 Comments
Police in Staunton, Virginia are dealing with a deathbed confession that may have solved a 42-year-old double murder. Sharron Diane Crawford Smith, 60, confessed to the murder of Constance Smootz Hevener, 19, and Carolyn Hevener Perry, 20 (who was also Hevener’s sister-in-law) at High’s Ice Cream store on 1967. She said that she shot the woman after she teased her about being a lesbian and got into a physical altercation.
Continue reading ‘Dying Virginia Woman Confesses to Double Murder 42 Years Ago in Ice Cream Shop’
Winter of Discontent: Far-Right Politician Convicted of “Humiliating a Religion”
Published 1, January 24, 2009 Constitutional Law , Criminal law , Politics , Religion , Society 14 Comments
The international trend toward criminalizing any insulting of religion has reached Austria, which has now convicted far-right legislator Susanne Winter for making anti-Muslim statements, including the oft-stated charge that Mohammed was a pedophile for marrying an underaged girl. Winter is an obvious wingnut and her statements obnoxious. However, the first amendment is being sharply curtailed by a movement to criminalize insults to religion, including a United Nations resolution.
Continue reading ‘Winter of Discontent: Far-Right Politician Convicted of “Humiliating a Religion”’
Rikers’ Fight Club: Three Officers Arrested for Allegedly Organizing System of Beatings and Extortion
Published 1, January 24, 2009 Criminal law , Society , Torts 5 Comments
Correctional Officers Michael McKie, Khalid Nelson and Denise Albright have been arrested on charges that they organized a fight club of inmates called “The Program.” Using teen enforcers called “The Team,” they allegedly oversaw a system of beatings, extortion, and terror at Rikers prison in New York. They even allegedly held classes on how to beat prisoners to leave as few marks as possible.
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Standoff in Safe Harbor: Temporary Guests Refuse to Leave House
Published 1, January 24, 2009 Bizarre , Society , Torts 5 Comments
There is an interesting case out of Safety Harbor, Florida of the classic peril of the guests who will not leave. Judson Randall says that agreed to help out Elizabeth Sewall and her daughter, Jessica Sewall, who were broke and homeless by letting them stay in his house for a month. Eight months later, they are still there and will not leave. They appear to have taken the name of Safety Harbor to heart and plan to stay until carried out.
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E Pluribus Memorexus: Inaugural Committee Admits that the Original Classical Piece Was Taped Not Live
Published 1, January 23, 2009 Bizarre , Congress 26 Comments
The truth is out. The inaugural classical piece by Cellist Yo-Yo Ma, violinist Itzhak Perlman, pianist Gabriella Montero and clarinetist Anthony McGill was made to look live but was not. The music that America heard was a tape of a performance of “Air and Simple Gifts” by John Williams done days earlier. This version of a classical lip sync puts Ma and Perlman in the same category as Milli Vanilli and Ashlee Simpson.
Death of Sgt. Maseth in KBR Shower Incident Re-Classified From “Accidental” to “Negligent Homicide”
Published 1, January 23, 2009 Criminal law , Military , Politics , Society 25 Comments
The U.S. Army Criminal Investigations Division (CID) has finally changed the status of the investigation of Sgt. Ryan Maseth, a highly decorated, 24-year-old Green Beret, from “accidental” to “negligent homicide.” Maseth was killed in an act of unbelievable negligence and carelessness by KBR in a shower where he was electrocuted. After months of controversy and criticism, the Army finally acknowledges that the company “failed to ensure that work was being done by qualified electricians and plumbers, and to inspect the work that was being conducted.”
Continue reading ‘Death of Sgt. Maseth in KBR Shower Incident Re-Classified From “Accidental” to “Negligent Homicide”’
Chicago Police Officer Pleads Guilty of Beating 60-Year-Old Man Handcuffed and Shackled to Wheelchair
Published 1, January 23, 2009 Criminal law , Society 7 Comments
Chicago Police officer William Cozzi has admitted that he “lost it” when he attacked 60-year-old Randle Miles, 62, who was handcuffed and shackled to a wheelchair at the time. The attack with his baton is shown on the video below. He pleaded guilty to a civil rights violation.
Continue reading ‘Chicago Police Officer Pleads Guilty of Beating 60-Year-Old Man Handcuffed and Shackled to Wheelchair’
D’oh! Thief Arrested After Giving Officer False Address — The Officer’s Address
Published 1, January 23, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law 3 CommentsWe may be losing markets to foreign countries but we still have a superior level of criminal. A teenager from Achim was caught shoplifting and an officer demanded his address. The teen made up an address. The only problem was that not only did the teen not live there but the officer did.
Continue reading ‘D’oh! Thief Arrested After Giving Officer False Address — The Officer’s Address’
Catholic Church Ordered to Reinstate Teacher Fired for Adultery
Published 1, January 23, 2009 International , Politics , Religion , Society 4 CommentsA Spanish court has rendered an interesting decision: ordering the Catholic Church to re-hire a teacher fired for adultery and to pay back pay of $12,888 to Maria del Carmen Galayo.
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Collared: Catholic Priests Arrested for Stealing As Much As $2 Million From Church Donations
Published 1, January 23, 2009 Criminal law , Religion , Society 8 Comments
Two Roman Catholic priests — Fr. John Skehan, 81, and Fr. Francis Guinan, 66, have been accused of an astonishing criminal enterprise — stealing between $800,000 and $2 million from Church funds at St. Vincent Ferrer Church, in West Palm Beach. Shekan has withdrawn his not guilty plea and admitted the theft (tough insists that it was no more than $100,000) while Guinan continues to maintain his innocence. They allegedly stole the money to use on holidays and gambling.
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Oh Isratine: The One State Solution
Published 1, January 23, 2009 International , Politics , Religion 34 Comments
The New York Times had a curious op-ed piece this week from Libyan President Muammar Qaddafi who proposed a “one-state solution” to the Palestinian crisis: a new Israeli-Palestinian state called Isratine. It was a surprising source for advice on the issue from a man not only linked to “Carlos the Jackal” and terrorist operations like the destruction of Pam Am flight 103, but a man whose previously solution was to push Israeli Jews into the sea.
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Man Abandons 280 Rats on Side of the Road in Cruel Conditions — Given Only $1000 Fine
Published 1, January 22, 2009 Criminal law , Environment , Society 51 Comments
A Providence, Rhode Island man is in trouble after he abandoned nearly 300 rats on the side of the road. Toby Duffany, 22, was arrested for stuffing 280 rats into aquariums and cages on the side of a road. The rats were forced to turn to cannibalism and 75 rates died. Yet, Duffany has only some community service and $1000 to pay for his cruel treatment of the animals.
When Poodles Attack: “Clinically Depressed” Poodle Bites Ex-French President Chirac
Published 1, January 22, 2009 Bizarre , Environment , Politics , Society , Torts 12 Comments
You simply can’t make this stuff up. Former French President Jacques Chirac was rushed to a hospital after being bitten by his white Maltese poodle, Sumo. Sumo has been under care for clinical depression, including treatment with anti-depressants.
Obama Moves to Close Gitmo Prison While Republicans Move To Delay Holder Nomination
Published 1, January 22, 2009 Congress , Constitutional Law , Criminal law , Military , Politics , Society 29 Comments
President Barack Obama issued four executive orders Thursday, including one requiring that the U.S. military detention facility at Guantanamo Bay be closed within a year. It was a widely anticipated move. The question remains, however, what to do about the war crimes committed at the facility. In the meantime, the Republicans are demanding that Holder promise not to investigate war crimes as a condition for their votes for confirmation.
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On a Wing and A Prayer: East Coast Facing Mysterious Chicken Wing Shortage
Published 1, January 22, 2009 Uncategorized 5 Comments
Once again the main stream media has let us down. While everyone was covering Inaugural Balls in Washington, a major crisis is emerging in New York and New Jersey: a chronic shortage of chicken wings. Not only are restaurant and bar owners in a panic over the shortage and rising costs, they have begun a boycott to protest the price increases. I noticed that at the confirmation hearing of the Treasury Department nominee, no one had the guts to ask about the strangle hold of the chicken wing and buffalo wing industry on the East Coast.
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Silent No More: Federal Judge Strikes Down Moment of Silence in Illinois
Published 1, January 22, 2009 Constitutional Law , Courts , Politics , Religion , Society 11 Comments 
U.S. District Judge Robert W. Gettleman has struck down the Illinois Silent Reflection and Student Prayer Act as unconstitutional. The decision is based on the Doctrine of Separation of Church and State and constitutes a departure from other rulings around the nation upholding such laws. It is a particularly important ruling for non-believers.
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Medical Study Finds Direct Link Between Reducing Pollution and Extending Lives
Published 1, January 22, 2009 Environment , Politics , Society 52 Comments
What is often missing in the political debate over the environment is the direct cost of pollution on the health and lives of Americans. While the Bush Administration was attacking environmental regulations across the board, officials rarely acknowledged that the lower standard meant more children with asthma and earlier deaths of hundreds of thousands of people. Indeed, most citizens fail to understand that pollution shortens their lives. They need to read this week’s issue of The New England Journal of Medicine.
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Australian Cleric Defends Right of Husbands to Beat Their Wives and Force Them to Have Sex
Published 1, January 22, 2009 Criminal law , Politics , Religion , Society 15 Comments
Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has weighed into a religious controversy, demanding a retraction and an apology from Islamic cleric Samir Abu Hamza for telling followers that they can beat their wives and force them to have sex under the Koran — in violation of Australian law.
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Obama Re-Takes the Oath
Published 1, January 22, 2009 Congress , Constitutional Law , Courts , Politics , Society , Supreme Court 8 Comments
In what must be one of the most embarrassing moments for a Chief Justice, Chief Justice Roberts gave President Barack Obama the oath for a second time on Wednesday in the White House map room. After a day of researching the question, the President’s White House counsel appeared to agree that he had not technically satisfied the oath due to an error by the Chief Justice. As I discussed recently on NPR, Obama is now the third president to taken the oath twice — joining Chester Arthur and Calvin Coolidge.
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Chief Roberts’ Grammatical Malfunction: Does the Oath Count?
Published 1, January 21, 2009 Academics , Constitutional Law , Courts , Lawyering , Politics , Society , Supreme Court 52 Comments
It was Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr.’s version of a wardrobe malfunction. He flubbed the 35-word oath and learned why his predecessor Chief Justice William Rehnquist always read the oath for accuracy. Now, there is a debate as to whether the oath is constitutionally valid and the possibility that Obama should take the oath again out of an abundance of caution. Today I did this segment on NPR’s Talk of the Nation. I will also be discussing this tonight on MSNBC Countdown.
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Indiana Supreme Court Allows Gary Gun Lawsuit to Proceed to Trial
Published 1, January 21, 2009 Constitutional Law , Courts , Society , Torts 18 Comments
In a very rare win for a city against a gun manufacturer, the Indiana Supreme Court has ruled that a lawsuit by the City of Gary can proceed to trial. These lawsuits have been uniformly rejected on various grounds, including standing. Yet, Gary with one of the nation’s highest homicide rates will be allowed to sue companies like Smith and Wesson, Beretta and Colt as well as gun dealers for the harm caused by their products. They are proceeding on a nuisance theory.
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Fieger Loses in Appeal Over His Lack of Civility
Published 1, January 21, 2009 Constitutional Law , Courts , Lawyering , Politics , Society 1 Comment
Controversial lawyer Geoffrey Fieger has lost a critical appeal before the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, which reversed a lower court decision in his favor. At issue is a state code requiring “civility for lawyers in their dealings with judges. In a 2-1 decision, the appellate panel ruled that the requirement is not is not unconstitutionally vague.
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Mother Declared Terrorist Threat After Spanking Children on Airplane
Published 1, January 21, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law 25 Comments
There is growing concern over the use of the Patriot Act against passengers on air flights. In one case, Tamera Jo Freeman was declared a threat to national security and lost custody of her children after she spanked her children on a Frontier Airlines flight.
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Letting God Sort Them Out: National Park Service Cuts Down Gettysburg “Witness Trees”
Published 1, January 21, 2009 Military , Politics , Society 10 Comments
The National Park Service has a curious way of protecting history. The Service cut down four “witness trees” from the Gettysburg battlefield. The white oak trees were between 160 and 229 years old and were present at the battle. They were supposed to be protected, but the NPS appears to chop now and ask questions later on matters of history. The NPS policy appears to be to cut down and let God sort them out.
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OUR 44TH PRESIDENT
Published 1, January 20, 2009 Academics , Congress , Constitutional Law , Courts , Criminal law , Environment , International , Justice , Lawyering , Media , Military , Politics , Religion , Society , Supreme Court , Testimony , Torts , USA Today 70 Comments
Washington is electric this morning. It is morning in America as literally billions around the world celebrate the Inauguration of our 44th President.
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Hagar The Horrible: Son of Leading Reform Rabbi Declared Non-Jew
Published 1, January 20, 2009 Courts , International , Religion , Society 4 Comments
Israel is caught up in an interesting controversy involving a Rabbincal Court. Rabbi Yissachar Dov Hagar, a judge on Jerusalem’s Rabbinical Court, ruled that Yossi Fackenheim, son of the famous Canadian academic and Reform Rabbi, Emil Fackenheim, is not really Jewish. The ruling came as part of a divorce decision and has caused a firestorm of controversy.
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Shell Game: Man Charged With Eating Lobster, Piecing Shells Back Together, and Returning Lobster to Store
Published 1, January 20, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Society 4 Comments
In Amsterdam, New York, police have charged Walter U. Tessier with a unique case of petit larceny after he bought a lobster, eat it, glued the pieces together, and returned the lobster. He may have gotten the wrong idea from the name of the star: Price Chopper.
Human Rights Lawyer and Russian Reporter Assassinated in Moscow
Published 1, January 20, 2009 Criminal law , Justice , Lawyering , Politics , Society 2 Comments
Stanislav Markelov, a leading human rights lawyer, and reporter Anastasia Baburova have been assassinated in Moscow — the latest fatalities of critics of the government. This assassination was done with a silencer on a public street just a half of a mile from the Kremlin — as if meant to send a message to other lawyers, reporters, and civil libertarians.
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Seldom Seen Sheldon: California Juvenile Judge Accused of Playing Hooky From Court — Again
Published 1, January 20, 2009 Courts , Lawyering , Politics , Society 2 Comments
The Wise and The Commission on Judicial Performance in California is worried about the work ethic of Riverside Superior Court Judge Christopher Sheldon. Years ago, Sheldon was admonished for spending too much time jogging on the courthouse stairs and too little time judging in the courthouse. Now, he is again the subject of an investigation into his habit of blowing off the court around noon everyday.
Amnesty International Accuses Israel of Using White Prosphorous in Civilian Areas in Violation of International Law
Published 1, January 20, 2009 Criminal law , Environment , International , Politics , Society 15 CommentsAmnesty International has entered the controversy over Israel’s alleged use of white phosphorus in civilian areas of the Gaza Strip. The use of white phosphorus in a civilian area — let alone a compacted urban area like Gaza — would violate international law. Amnesty’s own investigation found what it claims to be clear evidence of such violations.
Bush Pardons Former Border Patrol Officers Ignacio Ramos and Jose Compean; Nothing on Torture Pardons
Published 1, January 19, 2009 Criminal law , Politics , Society 20 Comments
On his last full day in office, President George Bush issued commutations for former U.S. Border Patrol agents Ignacio Ramos and Jose Compean. These were notably commutations and not full pardons. He has not yet issued any pardons on the torture program. I will be discussing the possible investigation of war crimes under the Obama Administration tonight on Rachel Maddow’s show.
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Dutch Treat: Tourist Sues Museum After Javelina Attack
Published 1, January 19, 2009 Environment , Society , Torts 5 Comments
There is a very interesting tort case filed in Tucson over a Dutch tourist, a javelina, and a desert museum. Rene Zegerius experienced a real desert encounter when he was attacked by a javelina, a pig-sized member of the peccary family. While the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum has javelinas, they insists that this must have been someone else’s javelina or a wild javelina. This is what torts professors dream of when they go to bed at night.
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Crazy as a . . . : Woman Takes Repair Man Hostage Over Failure to Fix Washing Machine
Published 1, January 19, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Society , Torts 11 Comments
You have to love this false imprisonment case. Tracey Fox, 42, snapped when a repair man told her that he could not fix her washing machine, which had broken down twice this year. Fox then took matters into her own hands and locked the man in the house and would not let him leave until the machine was working.
Iraqi Shoe Thrower Seeks Asylum
Published 1, January 19, 2009 Criminal law , International , Politics , Society 10 Comments
A Swiss lawyer has cited threats to the life of Muntadhar al-Zeidi and beatings in custody as the basis for a request for political asylum in Switzerland. The Iraqi journalist is still in prison after throwing his shoes at George W. Bush.
Purse or Curse: Lithuania Turns To Witch To Pursue Deadbeats
Published 1, January 19, 2009 Bizarre , Religion , Society 7 Comments
Skolu Isieskojimo Biuras, a Lithuanian debt collecting firm, has announced that it has retained the services of Vilija Lobaciuviene, the country’s most famous witch, to pursue people who do not pay their debts. The firm in Vilnuis expects a touch of witchcraft will help the bottom line.
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Lèse Majesté: Thailand Sentences Australian Writer To Three Years in Prison for Insulting Royal Family in Book
Published 1, January 19, 2009 Criminal law , International , Media , Politics 3 Comments
In yet another outrage by the Thai government’s use of the country’s Lèse majesté (prohibiting offenses against the crown), Australian writer Harry Nicolaides has been sentenced to three years in prison for insulting the crown in his 2005 book Verisimilitude. The sentence was originally six years but cut in half because of his guilty plea. In the meantime, British reporter Jonathan Head was charged under the laws for remarks that he made on a panel discussion at the Foreign Correspondents Club of Thailand.
Arkansas Supreme Court Justice Jim Gunter Sanctioned For Attack on Sister
Published 1, January 19, 2009 Courts , Criminal law , Lawyering , Politics , Society 6 Comments
In what appears the first time that an Arkansas Supreme Court justice has been reprimanded, the Court sanctioned Justice Jim Gunter for hitting and shoving his sister of hitting and shoving at his father’s home in September 2007 in Hope, Arkansas.
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Man v. Toilet: Utah Man Shoots Toilet and Injures Both Himself and Nearby Woman at Carl’s Jr. Restaurant
Published 1, January 19, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Society , Torts 9 Comments
Utah police have a novel case on their hands after a man shot a toilet at the Carl’s Jr. restaurant in Centerville, Utah. The man was in the men’s room and was pulling up his pants when his concealed handgun discharged — shooting the toilet, wounding himself, and sending a woman in a nearby Ladies Room to the hospital.
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Gen. Hayden Claims Obama Promised Not To Investigate War Crimes A Month Ago
Published 1, January 18, 2009 Uncategorized 107 Comments
Many of us have been alarmed by the obvious effort of the Obama staff to avoid any investigation of confirmed war crimes by the Bush Administration in the torture program. Obama and Attorney General nominee Eric Holder have been suggesting that a war crime investigation would be “uncivil” and “looking backwards.” It has not gone over well since torture is a crime under eight treaties and statutes. Now, General Michael V. Hayden claims that Obama secretly promised him that there would be no war crimes investigation or prosecution in a meeting in Chicago.
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God O Thunder: Former Head of Faith-Based Programs in Ohio Arrested on Prostitution Charges
Published 1, January 18, 2009 Criminal law , Politics , Religion , Society 30 Comments
Another representative of the faith-based political movement has been arrested on morals charges. Police have been looking for a man for years who solicited prostitutes on the Internet under the name “Sullivant Guy,” “Broad Street Guy,” “Toby” and “God O Thunder.” It turns out that “God O Thunder” is allegedly Robert Eric McFadden, who was the director of Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland’s Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives.
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Arizona Legislator Charged Criminally With Stealing Campaign Signs
Published 1, January 18, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Politics , Society 8 Comments
Sen. John Huppenthal (R., Chandler, Arizona) has been arrested and charged with stealing a campaign sign. Notably, Huppenthal has invoked legislative privileges to get the trial delayed.
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Former Lawyer Karyn McConnell Hancock Sentenced to Four Years
Published 1, January 18, 2009 Criminal law , Lawyering 4 Comments
Former Toledo attorney Karyn McConnell Hancock, 38, is heading to prison for four year. Hancock became infamous when she faked her own kidnapping. Now, she has been sentenced for stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars from her clients. She is a former Democratic Toledo city councilman and the daughter of sitting Toledo Municipal Court Judge C. Allen McConnell.
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Monster Truck Tort: Child Killed By Flying Debris At Tacoma Truck Show
Published 1, January 18, 2009 Bizarre , Society , Torts 7 CommentsThere is an interesting and tragic torts case that is likely to emerge from a monster truck show in Tacoma, Washington. These shows routinely have debris that is thrown dangerously from the trucks. In a show last week, such debris into the crowd and killed 6-year-old Sabastian Hizey.
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Criminal Defense Attorney Arrested in Minnesota Courthouse for Drug Possession
Published 1, January 18, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Lawyering 6 Comments
It appears that another of the bar brethren is in difficulties with the law over drugs. Around the same time that a Chicago lawyer was having his briefs searched at a prison, a Minnesota was having his briefcase searched in a courthouse. They found drugs in both cases. Attorney Charles Alan Ramsay, 41, was arrested after court staff became suspicious of his behavior in a bathroom and attorney conference room. The defense attorney (and brother of Duluth Police Chief Gordon Ramsay) was charged with third-degree and fifth-degree controlled substance crimes for allegedly possessing a mixture weighing three grams or more containing cocaine.
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Getting Reich With Jesus: Rick Warren Calls on the Faithful To Follow Jesus With The Passion of Nazis
Published 1, January 17, 2009 Bizarre , Politics , Religion , Society 32 Comments
A clip of Rick Warren from April 17, 2005 is making its way around the web on which the controversial preacher appears to call on the faithful to follow Jesus like Nazis. In the clip below, Warren cites the faith and commitment of young Nazis and suggests that Christians need to show the same passion. Warren was selected by Obama to give the Inauguration prayer for the nation.
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Supreme Court Takes Case of Girl Who Was Strip-Searched to Find Ibuprofen
Published 1, January 17, 2009 Constitutional Law , Society , Supreme Court 19 Comments
The Supreme Court has taken the case of Savana Redding, who in 2003 was a 13-year-old student strip searched by the teachers at Safford Middle School in Arizona in a mad search for her hidden drug stash. . . Ibuprofen. It appears that “Ibu-heads” must be a major problem at the school among the fast-living eighth grade clique.
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Departed for 40 Years: Former FBI Agent Who Inspired Movie Character Is Sentenced for Witness Killing
Published 1, January 17, 2009 Criminal law , Justice , Society 1 Comment
Former FBI agent John “Zip” Connolly has received a 40 year sentence for his role in the killing of a witness who was going to testify against his associates in the Mob. Connolly was the inspiration of Matt Damon’s character in the movie “The Departed.” The sentence is a practical death sentence for the 68-year-old former agent.
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Rep. Steve King Calls Obama’s Use of Middle Name at Inauguration “Bizarre”
Published 1, January 17, 2009 Bizarre , Congress , Politics 14 Comments
Now this is a story that fits perfectly in our bizarre category. Rep. Steve King (R-IA) previously said that al Qaida would “be dancing in the streets” if Barack Obama were elected president “because of his middle name.” Now, he is again drawing criticism after reportedly calling it “bizarre” that Obama will use his middle name — Hussein — in his taking of the oath. He has asked whether the name has become a “double-standard” on who and when it can be used.
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Lawyer’s Briefs Yield Contraband: Chicago Lawyer Arrested for Smuggling Drugs to Inmates
Published 1, January 17, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Lawyering , Society 4 Comments
A 60-year-old defense attorney in Chicago has been charged with smuggling marijuana and cigarettes to an inmate. Cook County Sheriff officials alleged that Dave Compton was caught in a transaction with the inmate’s girlfriend, Angela Bell. She allegedly gave him $250 bucks for the pots and smokes, which were hidden in his underwear.
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Freeh: Holder Allowed Himself to Be Used
Published 1, January 16, 2009 Congress , Constitutional Law , Criminal law , Politics , Society 21 Comments
Former FBI Director Louis Freeh testified today that the Marc Rich pardon was “corrupt” and that Attorney General-designate Eric Holder allowed himself “to be used” by the Clinton White House in January 2001. I discussed today’s testimony on Countdown in this segment.
Wing Nuts vs. Doughnuts: Pro-Life Advocates Blast Krispy Kreme Over Inauguration “Abortion Doughnuts”
Published 1, January 16, 2009 Politics , Society 18 Comments
Krispy Kreme thought that it was just getting into the Inaugural fun with a promotion of a free doughnut. The “freedom of choice doughnuts” is being labeled “abortion doughnuts” by the American Life League, which charges that Krispy Kreme is glazing over Obama’s pro-choice views.
A Bit Regal for a Recession? Obama Inauguration Allegedly To Run As Much As $170 Million
Published 1, January 16, 2009 Congress , Politics , Society 29 Comments
There has been little attention to a shocking figure placed on the Obama Inauguration: $170 Million. At a time of millions without work and a crumbling economy, it is fair to ask if spending that record amount of money sound the wrong signal to the country. One group, however, insists that this figure is inflated.
Saudi Grand Mufti Supports Marriage of Girls As Young As Ten
Published 1, January 16, 2009 Courts , Politics , Religion , Society 49 Comments
At a time of rising alarm over the marriage of girls as young as eight years old, Saudi Arabia’s Grand Mufti Abdul Aziz al-Sheikh has declared that such marriages are proper and moral under Sharia law. Indeed, he views such criticism as unfair to these girls despite the fact that such arrangements are viewed as per se child abuse and statutory rape in most other countries.
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