Everything about a murder in Chardon, Ohio is perfectly bizarre. Christine Newton-John, 41, (formerly John Vallandingham before a sex operation) has confessed to killing her husband James Mason, 71, by keeping him exercising and refusing to allow him out of a swimming pool.
Continue reading ‘Homicide by Exercise: Transgender Wife Confesses To Killing Elderly Husband With Excessive Exercise’
Archive for February, 2009
Homicide by Exercise: Transgender Wife Confesses To Killing Elderly Husband With Excessive Exercise
Published 1, February 15, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Society 5 Comments“All Together Ooky”: Man Convicted of Criminal Nuisance for Repeatedly Whistling Theme Song of The Addams Family
Published 1, February 15, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Society 19 Comments
Leopold Wrobel, 51,of Wingerworth, England is whistling a different tone this week after a court found him guilty in a unique form of criminal nuisance. Wrobel is to spend 20 weeks in jail for continually whistling the theme music to The Addams Family series whenever his elderly neighbors, Michael and Kathleen Sharpe, passed by. The Sharpes testified that Wrobel made them prisoners in their own home for four years by watching and whistling.
Continue reading ‘“All Together Ooky”: Man Convicted of Criminal Nuisance for Repeatedly Whistling Theme Song of The Addams Family’
HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY: THE LARCENY OF LOVE
Published 1, February 14, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Society 35 Comments
In celebration of Valentine’s Day, I give you the best criminal cases from the last year of amorous relationships gone bad. There are times when society simply does not understand the attraction of a man to a park bench, mannequin, or car vacuum. That is what this special day is all about on the Larceny of Love. Below are the 2009 winners of the Valentine Villains of Forbidden Love.
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Cashing In On The Kinder: Pennsylvania Judges Plead Guilty To Massive Corruption Charges
Published 1, February 14, 2009 Courts , Criminal law , Justice , Society 10 Comments
Prosecutors in Allentown are accepting pleas in one of the most disturbing cases of alleged judicial corruption in years. Two Pennsylvania judges was accepted generous plea bargains after taking more than $2 million in kickbacks to send youth offenders to privately run detention centers. The allegations suggest these judges intentionally sent kids to jail to gain personally. The charges named Luzerne County Judges Mark Ciavarella and Michael Conahan and 14 other defendant.
Continue reading ‘Cashing In On The Kinder: Pennsylvania Judges Plead Guilty To Massive Corruption Charges’
Former Yankee Jim Leyritz Jailed For Drinking While Awaiting Trial in DUI Manslaughter Case on
Published 1, February 14, 2009 Criminal law , Society 3 Comments
In Fort Lauderdale, Florida, former New York Yankee Jim Leyritz has been jailed for drinking as he awaited trial for killing a woman in a drunk driving accident. He was busted when his car system (that requires him to blow into a tube to start the car) registered alcohol.
Continue reading ‘Former Yankee Jim Leyritz Jailed For Drinking While Awaiting Trial in DUI Manslaughter Case on’
Federal Court Holds Stevens Prosecutors in Contempt
Published 1, February 14, 2009 Courts , Criminal law , Justice , Politics , Society 8 Comments
The United States Justice Department has finally outdone the O.J. Simpson prosecution team as the worst in history. After derailing a relatively straightforward case with prosecutorial abuse and creating major appellate issues for former Senator Ted Stevens (R., Alaska), they have now succeeded in getting one of the most mild mannered federal judges to hold them in contempt — with obvious justification.
Continue reading ‘Federal Court Holds Stevens Prosecutors in Contempt’
Hello Kitty: Transvestite Mafia Boss Named “Kitty” Arrested in Naples
Published 1, February 14, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Politics , Society 11 Comments
Here is your Mafia Valentine story. Ugo Gabriele, 27, a mafia boss in Naples who ran a huge drug, prostitution, and murder racket has been arrested. Police were surprised, however, to find that he insisted on being called Kitty and was now a transvestite. It appears that the mob has finally dropped its long discriminatory hiring practices and removed the glass ceiling for gay, lesbian, and transsexual mobsters.
Continue reading ‘Hello Kitty: Transvestite Mafia Boss Named “Kitty” Arrested in Naples’
Mississippi Judge Bobby DeLaughter Indicted
Published 1, February 13, 2009 Courts , Criminal law , Lawyering , Politics , Society 15 Comments
With the recent sentencing of Richard “Dickie” Scruggs on mail fraud charges, there was great speculation as to the fate of Mississippi Circuit Judge Bobby DeLaughter, who was the alleged recipient of a bribe. The speculation is now over with the indictment of the judge with conspiracy, mail fraud and obstruction. The bribery involved a promise to help secure a federal judgeship with the help of Senator Trent Lott (R., Miss.).
Continue reading ‘Mississippi Judge Bobby DeLaughter Indicted’
Thirteen Angry Men: Mistrial Declared After Texas Man Convicted by Vote of 13-0
Published 1, February 13, 2009 Bizarre , Courts , Criminal law 8 Comments
Now, coming from Chicago, I find nothing curious about this story. However, District Judge Mark Kent Ellis was a bit concerned when a jury returned a conviction against Charles Mapps in only 45 minutes by a vote of 13 jurors. Some would say that would make him really really guilty, but there is a small problem of being a violation of the state constitution.
Continue reading ‘Thirteen Angry Men: Mistrial Declared After Texas Man Convicted by Vote of 13-0′
END OF RAINBOW FOUND: POT OF GOLD MISSING
Published 1, February 13, 2009 Bizarre , Congress , Society 9 Comments
The search is over. The end of a rainbow has been conclusively found, but there was a conspicuous absence of a pot of gold. It seems an unlikely coincidence that this missing pot is revealed on the day that Congress approves the roughly $800 billion stimulus package. Fortunately, thousands of lobbyists followed the rainbow and found almost $200 billion in highway funds at the end.
Continue reading ‘END OF RAINBOW FOUND: POT OF GOLD MISSING’
Strike Out: Federal Judge Guts Roger Clemens’ Defamation Case Against McNamee
Published 1, February 13, 2009 Criminal law , Society , Torts Leave a Comment
U.S. District Court Judge Keith Ellison gutted the defamation case of Roger Clemens against his former trainer Brian McNamee. As discussed on this blog, the case was unlikely to succeed and seemed part of Clemens’ public campaign to defend his reputation. Now, he is more likely to appear in court as a criminal defendant than as a civil litigant.
Continue reading ‘Strike Out: Federal Judge Guts Roger Clemens’ Defamation Case Against McNamee’
Austrian History: FDR Caused The Great Depression
Published 1, February 13, 2009 Bizarre , Congress , Politics , Society 33 Comments
It appears that the cause of the Depression has been finally determined with certainty. The fault for the Depression, according to Rep. Steve Austria (R-OH), was Franklin Delano Roosevelt. This time traveling moment was all the more impressive since the Depression began in 1929 and Roosevelt took office in 1933.
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India Family Shot and Beheaded in “Honor Killings”
Published 1, February 13, 2009 Criminal law , International , Religion , Society 5 Comments
There is yet another terrible crime associated with India’s caste system. In Patna, eight members of a family where shot, beheaded, and thrown into a river after Ratan Mandal, 21, a poor villager, married Kanchan Kumari, 18, above his caste in secret. Fifteen people from the wealthy girl’s family have been charged.
Continue reading ‘India Family Shot and Beheaded in “Honor Killings”’
No Charges in Case of Man Dragged 19.8 Miles Under Van
Published 1, February 13, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law 1 Comment
In Queens, New York, a pedestrian was struck by a van and dragged 19.8 miles without the driver realizing that he had a body beneath his vehicle. The van was the second vehicle to hit the man and what is most remarkable is that it does not appear that either the first car or second car were hit-and-run drivers.
Continue reading ‘No Charges in Case of Man Dragged 19.8 Miles Under Van’
With Friends Like This . . . : Stephen Colbert Endorses Turley Testimony
Published 1, February 12, 2009 Academics , Bizarre , Congress , Constitutional Law , Politics , Society 39 Comments
Turley bloggers we have arrived. Stephen Colbert last night embraced my testimony against the D.C. voting rights bill with the type of clinging and infectious hug not seen since the Sadie Hawkins dances at the French Leper Colony.
Continue reading ‘With Friends Like This . . . : Stephen Colbert Endorses Turley Testimony’
Texas Lawyer Sues Judge Over Stalking Comment
Published 1, February 12, 2009 Courts , Criminal law , Society , Torts 5 Comments
There is an interesting case filed in Dallas, Texas where attorney Evan Lane “Van” Shaw has sued 193rd District Judge Carl Ginsberg (left) after the judge alleged that Shaw was stalking him. He is suing the judge for libel and slander. The case raises provocative questions about not just recusal but defamation.
Continue reading ‘Texas Lawyer Sues Judge Over Stalking Comment’
Right-Wing Dutch Politician Geert Wilders Challenges British Ban Over His Writings
Published 1, February 12, 2009 Constitutional Law , International , Politics , Religion , Society 9 Comments
England continues to use criminal laws and travel bans to punish individuals for controversial speech. One such controversial writer, Dutch politician Geert Wilders, now says that he is going to try to get into the country despite a ban to contest the use of such laws to punish free speech. He was invited to visit the country by a member of Parliament.
Continue reading ‘Right-Wing Dutch Politician Geert Wilders Challenges British Ban Over His Writings’
Florida Judge Thomas Stringer Resigns Over Dealings With Stripper
Published 1, February 12, 2009 Courts , Criminal law , Lawyering , Politics , Society 7 Comments
Florida Judge Thomas E. Stringer Sr. has resigned after the disclosure of his dealings with a stripper, Christy Yamanaka, 48. Stringer was accused of helping Yamanaka of hiding assets from their creditors. The allegations were previously discussed on this blog.
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Siren Song: Pennsylvania Woman Arrested for Arson After Allegedly Being Taped Singing About the Crimes
Published 1, February 12, 2009 Criminal law , Society 3 Comments
Amanda Gessner, 19, may have the shortest singing career in history. Police in Drexel Hill say that a surveillance camera caught Gessner signing “The fire department is going to be mad at me” before she started seven fires.
Editor and Publisher Arrested for “Hurting the Religious Feelings” of Muslims in India
Published 1, February 12, 2009 Criminal law , International , Politics , Religion , Society 3 CommentsIn yet another crackdown on free speech over criticism of a religion, the editor and publisher of The Statesman has been arrested for running an article that contains material insulting to Muslims. The Statesman’s editor Ravindra Kumar and publisher Anand Sinha were arrested in Calcutta.
Baseball Star Roberto Alomar Sued For Allegedly Giving Girlfriend AIDS From Unprotected Sex
Published 1, February 12, 2009 Society , Torts 4 Comments
Former New York Mets player Roberto Alomar has been sued by his former girlfriend, Ilya Dall, 31, who says that Alomar gave her AIDS from unprotected sex. Once rare in torts, claims of negligent or intentional exposure to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) has become much more common in American courts under theories of negligence or battery or infliction of emotional distress. She is suing the Puerto Rican baseball star for $15 million.
Beating Beaty: Video Shows Fresno Police Repeatedly Hitting Homeless Man
Published 1, February 12, 2009 Criminal law , Society , Torts 5 Comments 
The Fresno Police Department is investigating two officers videotaped beating a homeless man during his arrest. In the video below, the man, Glen Beaty, 52, is shown on the ground receiving hits to the head. Police Chief Jerry Dyer acknowledged that ‘the initial reaction of people that view this video will be one of disbelief.”
Continue reading ‘Beating Beaty: Video Shows Fresno Police Repeatedly Hitting Homeless Man’
No Nut: Peanut Company President Parnell Takes the Fifth Before Congress
Published 1, February 12, 2009 Bizarre , Congress , Criminal law , Lawyering , Politics , Society 14 Comments
Peanut Corporation of America owner Stewart Parnell has invoked his privilege against self-incrimination to refuse testimony before Congress. It was the smart move. Parnell is in the same position as Roger Clemens and other baseball players accused in the steroid scandal. The most likely charge that they faced was not from the original allegations but their testimony before Congress, the grand jury, or statements to investigators.
Continue reading ‘No Nut: Peanut Company President Parnell Takes the Fifth Before Congress’
All A Twitter: Rep. Hoekstra Defends Himself Against Allegations of Disclosing Sensitive Information on Twitter
Published 1, February 11, 2009 Uncategorized 8 Comments
Peter Hoekstra of Michigan, the top-ranking Republican on the House Intelligence Committee, is under fire for using Twitter to tell reporters that a group of officials were going to Iraq and Afghanistan. Anonymous sources have criticized Hoekstra for putting the entire delegation at risk by the security breach. It was an ironic twist for Hoekstra who has led calls for tough measures on staffers and other members accused of releasing classified or sensitive information, including my former client Larry Hanauer, a House Intelligence Committee staff member who was later cleared of all charges of leaking such information.
Lawnocrats: Michigan Man Loses Case to Grow Environmentally Friendly Lawn
Published 1, February 11, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Politics , Society 4 Comments
Pittsfield Township likes its lawns uniform and is willing to use criminal law to enforce its lawnacratic rule. Stanislav Voskov thought that he was doing a good thing by growing an environmentally friendly lawn by allowing various natural plants to grow without mowing. Pittsfield spotted some weeds of over ten inches and brought down the law on the lawn. Now, Judge Cedric Simpson has rule that Voskov must join the Stepford-like community in his lawn appearance.
Continue reading ‘Lawnocrats: Michigan Man Loses Case to Grow Environmentally Friendly Lawn’
Top Obama Aides Embrace Bush’s War on Terror Rhetoric and Enemy Combatant Policy
Published 1, February 11, 2009 Congress , Constitutional Law , Criminal law , Justice , Politics , Society , Supreme Court 117 Comments
This has been a uniquely bad week for civil libertarians. The Obama Administration appears to be rushing to dispel any notions that Obama will fight for civil liberties or war crimes investigations. After Eric Holder allegedly assured a senator that there would be no war crimes investigation and seemed to defend Bush policies, Harvard Law Dean Elena Kagan, Obama’s Solicitor General nominee, reportedly told a Republican senator that the Administration agreed with Bush that we are “at war” and therefore can hold enemy combatants indefinitely. In the meantime, Obama himself seemed to tie himself in knots when asked about investigating war crimes and leading democrats are again pushing for a symbolic “truth commission.” I discussed these issues in this segment of Countdown this week.
Continue reading ‘Top Obama Aides Embrace Bush’s War on Terror Rhetoric and Enemy Combatant Policy’
The Real Thing: Indian Company Introduces Cow Urine Soft Drink
Published 1, February 11, 2009 Bizarre , International 7 Comments
Indian newspapers are reporting that an Indian company is about to introduce a rival to Coca Cola: Cow Urine soda. This ultimate un-cola (or ungulate cola) is made with a base of gau ark (cow urine) though they prefer to call it gau jal (cow water). My doubts about the authenticity of this story have been dispelled by the widespread report in India, where there are long-held views of the health benefits of cow waste, including tooth paste and face powder. I personally like the cow dung after shave to give me that cudly feel in the morning.
Continue reading ‘The Real Thing: Indian Company Introduces Cow Urine Soft Drink’
American Freestyle Motocross Champion Jeremy Lusk Dies After Trying a Backflip
Published 1, February 11, 2009 Bizarre , Society , Torts 2 Comments
Jeremy Lusk, an American freestyle motocross racer, died of head injuries this week after failing to complete the rotation in a “Hart Attack backflip.” The move caused severe brain damage and possible spinal cord injury. The accident follows complaints over the danger of such activities, particularly for kids trying to mimic their heroes. The video below raises serious questions about the safety of this sport.
Continue reading ‘American Freestyle Motocross Champion Jeremy Lusk Dies After Trying a Backflip’
The Phelps Eight: Richland County Rounds Up Bong Buddies of Olympic Swimmer
Published 1, February 11, 2009 Criminal law , Politics , Society 13 Comments
Word to the wise, don’t smoke dope with celebrities in Richland County, South Carolina. Media reports indicate that the Sheriff’s Department have arrested eight people in connection to the controversy. It would also indicate that criminal charges are being contemplated against Phelps since such arrests are often useful in coercing cooperation from witnesses.
Continue reading ‘The Phelps Eight: Richland County Rounds Up Bong Buddies of Olympic Swimmer’
Saudi Arabian Judge Sentences Pregnant Gang Rape Victim to Jail and 100 Lashes
Published 1, February 11, 2009 Criminal law , International , Politics , Religion , Society 96 Comments
A Saudi judge in Jeddah has again given the world a taste of law under the country’s medieval Sharia system. A 23-year-old pregnant woman who complained about being gang raped has been found guilty of adultery (even though she is not married) and ordered that she serve one year in jail and receive 100 lashes.
Continue reading ‘Saudi Arabian Judge Sentences Pregnant Gang Rape Victim to Jail and 100 Lashes’
Ken Lawson to Be Sentenced for Drugs While Former Clients Sue Over Malpractice
Published 1, February 10, 2009 Criminal law , Lawyering , Society 4 CommentsDrugs appear to have claimed another leading lawyer — cautionary tale for law students and lawyers alike. Ken Lawson has assembled a reputation in Kentucky for his defense of celebrities and suing police departments. Various clients have sued Lawson for malpractice and Lawson, 45, will be sentenced on federal drug-conspiracy charge.
Continue reading ‘Ken Lawson to Be Sentenced for Drugs While Former Clients Sue Over Malpractice’
No Mondavi for Mugabe: Zimbabwe Demands Birthday Contributions of 2000 Bottles of Champagne, Lobsters and Other Delights
Published 1, February 10, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , International , Politics , Society 5 Comments
With unprecedented inflation making its currency worthless and rampant starvation and cholera, most people would have a hard time celebrating, but not the family and friends of President Mugabe, who have drawn up the list of items needed to celebrate his 85th birthday. The list (below) includes 2,000 bottles of champagne (Moët & Chandon or ’61 Bollinger preferred); 8,000 lobsters; 100kg of prawns; 4,000 portions of caviar; 8,000 boxes of Ferrero Rocher chocolates; 3,000 ducks; and other essentials. One thing barred is “No mealie meal” — the corn product that is sustaining millions of people in the country.
TRAVEL ALERT: Duck Scam Artists Fleecing Tourists
Published 1, February 10, 2009 Bizarre , Environment , Society 20 Comments
I just saw this picture and thought you should be warned about mother ducks using their ducklings as decoys.
Continue reading ‘TRAVEL ALERT: Duck Scam Artists Fleecing Tourists’
Texas Judge Accused of Failure to Pay Legal Costs in Daughter’s Manslaughter Case
Published 1, February 10, 2009 Courts , Criminal law , Politics , Society , Torts 4 Comments
Texas Judge Pat Shelton has already attracted a great deal of controversy over his role in the defense of his daughter, Elizabeth Shelton, who was convicted of drunk driving that led to the death of her boyfriend, Matthew McNiece. Not only did Shelton sue the car that she hit but Judge Shelton attacked the man who is credited with saving his daughter. Now, Judge Shelton is accused of not paying his legal bills in the case.
Continue reading ‘Texas Judge Accused of Failure to Pay Legal Costs in Daughter’s Manslaughter Case’
English Diplomat Arrested for Shouting Anti-Israeli Comments At Gym
Published 1, February 10, 2009 Constitutional Law , Criminal law , Politics , Religion , Society 16 Comments
A top aide to British Foreign Secretary David Miliband has been arrested for shouting at the “telly” at his gym. The 47-year-old diplomat is accused of shouting “F***ing Israelis, f***ing Jews” while watching news reports of Israel’s bombardment of Gaza last month at the gym.
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Y’All Come Again!: Town Accused of “Highway Piracy” in Seizing Property Without Bringing Criminal Charges
Published 1, February 10, 2009 Criminal law , Politics , Society 13 Comments
The Town of Tenaha, Texas (population 1000) is accused of rising revenue the old fashioned way: by stealing it. Citizens who have passed through the town have complained that property has been seized by Tenaha police and never returned, even though they were never charged with a crime. Tenaha Mayor George Bowers, 80, is remarkably unapologetic or concerned, noting that the seizures helped them build a new police station and add a second police car for the town: “It’s always helpful to have any kind of income to expand your police force.”
Continue reading ‘Y’All Come Again!: Town Accused of “Highway Piracy” in Seizing Property Without Bringing Criminal Charges’
Beaver Damned: Wisconsin Teacher Suspended For Picture on Facebook
Published 1, February 9, 2009 Academics , Politics , Society 11 Comments
There is another case of a teacher being punished for legal activities outside of the school setting. The latest case comes from Beaver Dam, Wisconsin where teacher Betsy Ramsdale has been put on leave after someone found a picture of her holding a gun on her Facebook site.
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Florida Law Professor Sues for Discrimination
Published 1, February 9, 2009 Academics , Society , Torts 14 Comments
Sherrie Russell-Brown, a former law professor at the University of Florida Levin College of Law has filed a racial and sexual discrimination lawsuit against the school and its dean. Her allegations could force the entire faculty to face discovery and a potential trial on actions taken against her and statements made in faculty meetings. She has named Dean Robert H. Jerry, the University of Florida and its board of trustees as defendants.
Continue reading ‘Florida Law Professor Sues for Discrimination’
Police Tell Teenager to Lay On the Road or Be Tasered, The Boy Complies and Is Promptly Run Over By Car
Published 1, February 9, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , International 5 Comments
In Ipswich, Australia, a 16-year-old boy who was told by police to lay down in the street or be tasered by police. The boy complied and was then run over and killed by a car. It is a compelling case of negligence, even if the boy was acting “aggressive.”
Schiavo Mediterranean Style: Italy Halts Effort to Terminate Woman in Vegetative State
Published 1, February 9, 2009 Constitutional Law , Courts , Politics , Religion , Society 6 Comments
Italy is in the midst of its own Terri Schiavo controversy. Italian prime minister, Silvio Berlusconi, has intervened to prevent doctors from carrying out the wishes of Eluana Englaro and her family to discontinued life support. Englaro has been in a coma for 17 years after a car crash in 1992. Berlusconi consulted with the Vatican and declared: “This is murder. I would be failing to rescue her. I’m not a Pontius Pilate.” The prime minister added that one of the things that persuaded him is that she was “in the condition to have babies.”
Texas Court Finally Clears Man of Rape . . . . Ten Years After He Died in Prison
Published 1, February 9, 2009 Constitutional Law , Courts , Criminal law , Lawyering , Politics , Society 7 Comments
You would think that Timothy Cole would be a happy man. Texas State District Judge Charles Baird has expunged his conviction of a 1985 rape in Lubbock, Texas of Texas Tech University student Michele Mallin. The problem is that he died in prison ten years ago.
Continue reading ‘Texas Court Finally Clears Man of Rape . . . . Ten Years After He Died in Prison’
Cutting a Deal with the “Death Dealers”: Soldier Attempts Suicide So Army Charges Him Criminally and Has His Mother Paint His Suicide Note On His Bedroom Wall
Published 1, February 9, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Military , Society , Torts 54 Comments
As Congress struggles to understand the shocking report of a massive increase in suicides in the Army, they might want to study the case of Army Pvt. Adam Lieberman to see how some officers treat soldiers in mental distress. Lieberman was experiencing severe mental problems after a year in Iraq qith the Ist Battalion, 67 Armored Regiment — known as “the Death Dealers.” When he tried to kill himself, he wrote his suicide note on the wall in his room. The Army reportedly responded to the suicide attempt by charging him criminally and cut a deal with this mom. If she re-painted the wall, his charges would not include defacing of government property. After she painted the wall with the help of her handicapped sister, they charged him anyway with the crime.
Taney Bound
Published 1, February 8, 2009 Academics , Bizarre , Columns , Congress , Constitutional Law , Courts , Criminal law , Environment , International , Justice , Lawyering , Media , Military , Politics , Religion , Society , Supreme Court , Testimony , Torts 32 Comments
Further entries on Sunday will be delayed due to my deployment on the Cutter U.S.S. Taney (USCGC Taney (WPG/WHEC-37)).
My two eldest sons and I are scheduled to sleep over on the Taney on Saturday night. Men going off to sea on a warship is nothing new, but not since the Fighting Sullivan brothers has one family decided to serve in the same ship.
California Bar Association Seizes Control of Office of Attorney Walter Martinez
Published 1, February 8, 2009 Criminal law , Lawyering , Society Leave a CommentThe California State Bar conducted a rare sting operation recently when it sent fake clients into the offices of Walter S. Martinez and L and M Services. The bar found that clients had no interaction with Martinez and that all of the works was being handled by non-lawyers in violation of state law. The bar went even further to secure an order from Orange County Superior Court Judge Frederick Horn Monday, giving the State Bar authority to assume jurisdiction over the Law Office of Walter S. Martinez and L and M Legal Services. What is curious is that the assistants are being criminally charged, but there are no charges of any kind made thus far against Martinez.
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Two Men Sentenced to Death for Translating Koran
Published 1, February 8, 2009 Criminal law , International , Society 3 Comments
Our ally Afghanistan is given the world another legal atrocity: sentencing two men to death for translating the Koran (Quran). Continue reading ‘Two Men Sentenced to Death for Translating Koran’
Czech Republic Denounced Over Castration Practices
Published 1, February 8, 2009 Criminal law , International , Society 2 Comments
The international community and the Council of Europe’s Anti-Torture Committee have denounced the widespread use of castration by the Czech Republic for sex offenders. The Council has called for an end to what it refers to as invasive, irreversible and mutilating” punishment.
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Panel Discloses $78 Billion Over-Payment by Government Under TARP
Published 1, February 8, 2009 Bizarre , Politics , Society 16 Comments
For those who believe that the stimulus legislation is a thinly veiled effort by both Democrats and Republicans to enrich friends and engorge budgets, they need only read the Congressional Oversight Panel report to confirm their suspicions. The panel has reported to the Senate Banking Committee this week that Treasury in 2008 paid $254 billion for assets worth only $176 billion. That is $78 billions that simply evaporated into the pockets of well-connected, well-heeled executives.
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Goucher College Professor Arrested on Charges of Genocide
Published 1, February 7, 2009 Academics , Criminal law , International , Religion , Society 18 Comments
Students at the Goucher College are probably used to faculty being absent to present papers on subjects like genocide, but in the case of Leopold Munyakazi, he was pulled away to present a defense on genocide. Professor Munyakazi has been arrested on charges of genocide in Rwanda.
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Soprano Star Vincent Pastore Sued Over Assault
Published 1, February 7, 2009 Criminal law , Society 2 Comments
Vincent Pastore, who attained fame as “Big Pussy” on the Sopranos, is in a trial in New York over his alleged assaulting of his former girlfriend, Lisa Regina, 47. She is suing for unspecified damages in the tort action alleging assault by Pastore.
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Alaskan Senate Finds Todd Palin and Nine Others in Contempt
Published 1, February 7, 2009 Criminal law , Politics , Society 46 Comments
A virtually unanimous and bipartisan Alaska Senate this week found the husband of Gov. Sarah Palin, Todd Palin, and nine state employees, including top Palin aides, in contempt for ignoring subpoenas to testify in the Troopergate investigation. Only one Republican voted against the measure.
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Dung Damages: English Researcher Seeks Damages for Loss Lizard Dropping
Published 1, February 7, 2009 Bizarre , Lawyering , Society 4 Comments
Lawyers are often asked to litigate over cars, cats, and every form of chattel. However, the attorney representing Daniel Bennett is seeking damages over his client’s loss of an invaluable bag of giant lizard dung. Bennett spent years collecting the dropping of the rare Butaan lizard, only to have Leeds University throw the bag of poop in the trash. The University has offered £500 for the 35kg bag. Bennett insists that that is an insulting offer for the loss of my “bag of lizard shit”.
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Leon Panetta Pledges That No CIA Employees Will Be Prosecuted For War Crimes
Published 1, February 7, 2009 Congress , Constitutional Law , Criminal law , International , Politics , Society 76 Comments
CIA director nominee Leon Panetta gave startling testimony in his confirmation hearings this week by retracting a statement critical of the Bush Administration’s rendition policy and proclaiming that CIA employees will not be punished for any war crimes that they committed. I discuss the testimony on this segment of Countdown.
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Doctor in Live Birth Abortion Case Loses License
Published 1, February 7, 2009 Criminal law , Society , Torts 6 Comments
Dr. Pierre Jean-Jacques Renelique, the doctor involved in the horrific live birth abortion case, has lost his license. The Florida Medical Board upheld Department of Health allegations that he falsified medical records, inappropriately delegated tasks to unlicensed personnel and committed malpractice.
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The Rat Has Rights: 10-Foot Inflatable Rat Prevails in New Jersey Supreme Court
Published 1, February 6, 2009 Constitutional Law , Courts , Politics , Society , Uncategorized 7 Comments
The New Jersey Supreme Court has ruled in favor of a 10-foot inflatable rat. The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers union was using the giant rat in protests when the officials at the Lawrence Township informed the union that the rat violated a ban on banners, streamers and inflatable signs, except those announcing grand openings. The New Jersey Supreme Court has ruled that the rat has rights . . . or at least the union under the first amendment.
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“Terrifying” Report: More Soldiers Dying From Suicide Than Combat
Published 1, February 6, 2009 Military , Politics , Society 108 Comments
The military has released figures showing record suicide rates that show more soldiers are dying by their own hand than those of the enemy. In just the Army alone, 24 soldiers are believed to have committed suicide in January. That is six times the number from 2008.
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Abortion or Murder? Clinic Reportedly Delivers Live Baby By Mistake and Then Throws Her Into the Trash
Published 1, February 6, 2009 Criminal law , Politics , Society , Torts 18 Comments
A horrific case has emerged in Florida that may unleash a new round of legislative demands on restrictions of abortion clinics, a continual point of contention in the state. According to media reports, Sycloria Williams, 18, went to an abortion clinic outside of Miami and paid $1200 for an abortion. However, the 23-week baby was reportedly delivered live and simply thrown into a trash bag. The case has caused attention on the background and questionable skills of Dr. Pierre Jean-Jacque Renelique. The case has both challenging civil and criminal questions.
Continue reading ‘Abortion or Murder? Clinic Reportedly Delivers Live Baby By Mistake and Then Throws Her Into the Trash’
As Olympic gold medalist Michael Phelps contemplates possible criminal charges, he has already been dropped by sponsor Kellogg Co. (K) (K) and suspended by his team for three months.
Continue reading ‘Phelps Suspended and Dropped by Sponsor’
Loss of Consortium? Man Arrested for Making Out With Blow-Up Dolls
Published 1, February 6, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Society 8 Comments
If you thought that attorney Harold M. Hoffman had an embarrassing appearance in court, consider George Bartusek, 51, who was arrested for making out with an inflatable doll in the front seat of his 1988 Lincoln Town Car in the parking lot of a Publix store.
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Pre-Law Major: Thomas Jefferson School of Law Discovers 500,000 Mammoth Remains
Published 1, February 6, 2009 Academics , Bizarre , Society 3 Comments
Thomas Jefferson School of Law can now claim that its new school is not just historic but pre-historic in San Diego. Construction workers preparing the site for the new school have discovered a 500,000 year old mammoth at the site. Better yet, it is a Columbian mammoth. Presumably, the students can now claim a dual TJ and Columbia degree.
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Auto-ban: 68-Year-Old Woman Flunks Driving Test 771 Times
Published 1, February 6, 2009 Bizarre , Society 1 Comment
There comes a time when you just take public transit. A 68-year-old woman in South Korea is planning to take the country’s driving test for a 772nd time, having flunked the test 771 times since 2005.
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Stanci Scheme: Eighteen Year Old Faces 300 Years Over Facebook Sexual Blackmail
Published 1, February 5, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Society 8 Comments
This week, we have yet another example of the dangers of Internet sites like Facebook. Anthony Stanci of New Berlin, Wisconsi is looking at a potential of 300 years for a scheme where he allegedly used Facebook to extort money from other teenagers and was charged with five counts of child enticement, two counts of second-degree sexual assault of a child, two counts of third-degree sexual assault, possession of child pornography, repeated sexual assault of the same child and making a bomb threat. That is quite a criminal resume for an 18-year-old first offender who was a student at New Berlin Eisenhower Middle and High School at the time of most of the offenses.
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Fairey Use: Associated Press Charges Copyright Abuse Over Use of Image in Iconic Obama “Hope” Picture
Published 1, February 5, 2009 Politics , Society 11 Comments
Perhaps the most iconic image from the inauguration was the “Hope” poster by artist Shepard Fairey. It will now be the most litigious. Associated Press has alleged that the artist committed copyright infringement over the use of one of its pictures taken by Manny Garcia at the National Press Club in Washington. She and some experts insist that it falls into the fair use exception for copyrighted material.
Officer Rams Van Full of Children, Brandishes Weapon, Arrests Father on Baseless Charge, and Receives No Punishment
Published 1, February 5, 2009 Criminal law , Society , Torts 26 Comments
The video below shows a curious police chase. Minnesota State Patrol Sgt. Carrie Rindal says that she was forced to ram the van of a man attempted to flee in his van and then succeeded in arresting him. The only problem is that Sam Salter was only suspected of an unlawful lane change and his flight was for only one mile at a slow speed. Salter had his children in the van and says that he was trying to find a safe place to pull over when Rindal rammed his van and came at him with his gun drawn.
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Assaulted Walmart Greeter Sues Police Officer and Chattanooga Police Department
Published 1, February 5, 2009 Criminal law , Society , Torts 9 Comments
There has been general outcry after the Chattanooga Police Department refused to charge Officer Kenneth Freeman with assault after he knocked down a seventy-one-year old Walmart greeter and threw another man through a glass door. Now, Bill Walker, 71, is suing Freeman and the police department for $21 million.
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Roman Polanski Loses Bid To Dismiss Criminal Case
Published 1, February 5, 2009 Criminal law , Politics , Society 3 Comments
Director Roman Polanski’s latest bid to get his 31-year-old sex case dismissed hit a bit of a snag. If he wants to have it dismissed, he will have to appear in person in court. It is not something that the fugitive director wants to do and face a high likelihood of a criminal sentence.
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Motion to Enlarge: New Jersey Lawyer Loses Bid Against Defective “Enlargement” Device
Published 1, February 5, 2009 Bizarre , Lawyering , Torts 20 Comments
Englewood attorney Harold M. Hoffman has achieved a curious notoriety in legal circles after his prolonged effort to sue a company for false advertising of a penis enlargement product that did not meet his expectations. He lost another round before the New Jersey appellate court.
English Police Scramble Eight Squad Cars and Arrest Man Who Pointed Play Ray Gun at Baby and Said “Pow, Pow”
Published 1, February 4, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Society 17 Comments
The English police have shown that they have zero tolerance for alien weaponry. In an absolutely bizarre case, a mother became upset wen a man pointing a ray gun at her and her gun and said “pow, pow” to make the baby laugh. The gun makes a sound and lights up. The police sent eight cars to apprehend the man who was sitting at a bus stop and confiscated his ray gun. He has now been criminally charged.
Bad Call? Mayor Faces Criminal Charges for Killing Two Dogs
Published 1, February 4, 2009 Criminal law , Environment , Politics , Society , Torts 12 Comments
McCune Mayor Don Call, Mayor of McCune, Mo., may wish he lived in McCune, Pennsylvania where shooting dogs was found not to be covered under animal cruelty statutes. Call faces animal cruelty charges for killing two dogs with a rifle that were threatening children in the area. A warrant has been issued for his arrest.
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NYPD Under Fire For Prostitution Arrests in Gay Community
Published 1, February 4, 2009 Constitutional Law , Criminal law , Politics , Society 27 Comments
The gay community in Manhattan are denouncing a new campaign by the New York Police Department targeting the gay community and adult video stores. Men like Robert Pinter, 53, say that they were enticed by offers of consensual sex in the store (perfectly legal) and were then told on the way to their car that the man wanted to give them some money afterward — followed immediately with an arrest. City Council Speaker Christine Quinn has denounced the arrests as abusive.
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Foul Balls: New Disclosures Strengthen Criminal Cases Against Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens
Published 1, February 4, 2009 Criminal law , Society 12 Comments
There have been major develop- ments in the cases of Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens that could spell serious problems for both former major league players in the ongoing controversy over steroid use.
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Taking Back Ben Stein’s Money: Ben Stein Pulled As Commencement Speaker for the University of Vermont
Published 1, February 4, 2009 Academics , Environment , Politics 90 Comments
After a revolt among students and alumni, comedian and game show host Ben Stein has withdrawn as the paid spring commencement speaker and recipient of an honorary degree. Critics have cited Stein’s attacks on the theory of evolution and controversial views of science. He was to be paid $7500 for the speech.
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Seventy-Five-Year-Old Doctor Jailed in India for a 51 Cent Bribe Taken Twenty-Four Years Ago
Published 1, February 4, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , International , Lawyering , Society 8 Comments
Balgovind Prasad, 75, has been sent to prison for three months for accepting a bribe of 25 rupees (or 51 cents) from a street sweeper in 1985 to issue a federal medical certificate. He was originally sentenced to a year, but the court recently reduced the sentence due to the small size of the bribe.
Chinese Official: Baby Born Every 30 Seconds With Birth Defect Due to Pollution
Published 1, February 4, 2009 Environment , Politics , Society 3 Comments
In a remarkable admission from the Chinese government, a Chinese health official has said that China’s lethal levels of pollution is the reason that a baby is born with defects every 30 seconds in the country. Jiang Fan, vice-minister of the National Population and Family Planning Commission (NPFPC) made the shocking admission at a conference in Beijing.
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Going for the [Acapulco] Gold: Phelps May Be Criminally Charged Over Pot Pictures
Published 1, February 3, 2009 Criminal law , Media , Society 87 CommentsMichael Phelps may have a bit more to worry about than losing some of us promotional contracts, he could lose his freedom. The 14-time gold medalist was shown smoking marijuana from a pipe. In both real estate and criminal law, the key is always location, location, location. This was not a good location to go for the Acapulco gold. South Carolina prosecutors are looking into charges and in Richland County, Phelps could get as much as 30 days — though jail is rare in such cases.
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What the Hecht? Prosecutors Boycott New Judge Accused of Prostitution Offenses
Published 1, February 3, 2009 Courts , Criminal law , Politics , Society 19 Comments
Michael Hecht, a new Washington state judge in Pierce County Superior Court, has a docket that most judges would relish: virtually no substantive cases. The reason is that country prosecutors are refusing to try cases before Hecht, who has been charged with soliciting prostitutes and then threatening a 24-year-old male prostitute. Hecht ran in part on his work in building stable and moral families.
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Paper Chase and Resume Shred: Drunken Harvard 3L Charged With Ordering Police to Be His Chauffeurs . . . Or Else
Published 1, February 3, 2009 Academics , Bizarre , Criminal law , Lawyering 6 Comments
A Harvard Law School student has lost his job with the District Attorney’s office and faces criminal charges after an embarrassing encounter with the Boston Police Department. Charles C. Simpkins, a third-year law student has been charged with two counts, including disorderly conduct and resisting arrest.
Virginia Lawyer and Adjunct GW Law Professor Shot in Office
Published 1, February 3, 2009 Academics , Bizarre , Criminal law 6 Comments
Todd F. Sanders, 45, a Virginia lawyer and George Washington adjunct law professor was shot last night through his office window in Loudoun’s historic district. He was released after treatment for a non-life threatening wound.
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Shoot the Pooch: Pennsylvania Court Rule that Owners Can Shoot Their Pets
Published 1, February 3, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Environment , Politics , Society 5 Comments
The Pennsylvania Superior Court has ruled that pet owners in the state cannot be prosecuted for shooting and killing their pets. The appellate court overturned the conviction of Wendy Colleen Kneller who, in 2006, shot her 6-year-old pit bull-chow mix, Bouta. The state anti-cruelty statute was deemed too ambiguous to sustain such a charge.
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Video: Spokeswoman Faints at Conference and Is Caught By Prime Minister Who Carries Her Out of Conference
Published 1, February 3, 2009 Bizarre , Politics , Society 6 Comments
Hungarian spokeswoman Bernadett Budai became dizzy in the middle of a press conference, bumped into the Hungarian Prime Minister Ferenc Gyurcsany and collapsed . . . only to be caught by the PM and carried from the room. The incredible video is below.
Shock Video: New York Police Ransack Bar, Smash Gambling Machines, and Pocket Cash
Published 1, February 3, 2009 Criminal law , Politics , Society 7 Comments
In the amazing video below, New York police officers are shown ransacking a bar and smashing gambling machines . . . and pocketing cash. The November 14, 2007 raid on a bar called Beer Googles. One officer is seen counting cash from a smashed machine and handing it to another officer, who peels off some for himself and pockets it.
Shoe Politics: Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao Gets the Shoe Treatment at Cambridge
Published 1, February 3, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Politics , Society 4 Comments
Give them the shoe appears to be replacing the boot as a standard in politics. In a scene reminiscent of the Iraqi shoe thrower and George Bush, a protester at Cambridge University threw a sneaker at at Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and called him a dictator. As if to prove the dictator point, the Chinese media was promptly ordered not to mention the incident in any coverage to keep the Chinese people in the dark about the story. The video of the incident is below.
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Greatest Trial on Earth: Animal Cruelty Case Against Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus Goes to Trial
Published 1, February 2, 2009 Environment , Society 18 Comments
It has taken eight years, but Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus are heading to a non-jury trial over cruelty allegations related to its treatment of its elephants. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the Animal Welfare Institute, and other plaintiffs allege that company’s use of sharp tools called bullhooks and the prolonged use of chains on the Asian elephants. The case is an interesting use of the federal Endangered Species Act rather than the usual animal cruelty statutes.
Un-Lucky Strikes: Saudi Arabia Sentences Man To 30 Lashes for Smoking on a Flight
Published 1, February 2, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , International , Politics , Religion , Society 78 Comments
If you think that American flight attendants have become a bit heavy handed, be grateful that you don’t fly Saudi Arabian Airlines flight. A man who refused to put his cigarette out on a flight to Jeddah was sentenced to 30 lashes.
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Guns and God: Arkansas Legislators Move to Armed the Faithful in Church
Published 1, February 2, 2009 Bizarre , Politics , Society 55 Comments
Legislators in Arkansas do no want to have to chose between god and guns. They are pushing legislation to allow citizens to pack heat in the house of God. Grant Exton is a gun owner and president of the state’s Concealed Carry Association insists that they are simply trying to give all churches the right have armed congregationalists. Gun owners can then lock and load for Jesus.
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Grandpré Malfunction: Canadian Courts Refuse to Lift Prior Restraint on Journalist Covering Court Case
Published 1, February 2, 2009 Constitutional Law , Courts , Lawyering , Media , Society 10 Comments
The Canadian courts are facing an important issue involving a free press — and they seem to be failing the test. The Quebec Court of Appeal this week refused to remove a gag on Daniel Leblanc, a Globe and Mail reporter ,who was barred from disclosing facts about negotiations in a civil lawsuit. It is a prior restraint by Justice Jean-François de Grandpré that would be viewed as an outrage in the United States.
Court Rules Against “New York’s Most Obnoxious Lawyer”
Published 1, February 2, 2009 Bizarre , Courts , Lawyering , Society 4 Comments
Kenneth Heller has earned the reputation as “New York’s most obnoxious lawyer” and his record is hardly improving. A New York appellate court has upheld a finding of contempt and sentence (30-day in prison and $10,000 fine) after Heller refused to turn over his files in a wrongful death case.
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Serial Prayer: English Nurse is Suspended for Offering to Pray for Elderly Patient
Published 1, February 2, 2009 Bizarre , Constitutional Law , Religion , Society 7 Comments
A nurse is facing disciplinary action for simply offering to pray for the recovery of an elderly patient. While the patient did not object, Caroline Petrie, 45, is facing sanctions or even termination. Petrie is a serial prayer. She was suspended previously for breaching the “code of conduct on equality and diversity.” She has now been suspended again.
PETA Porn: Animal Rights Group Prevented From Airing Super Bowl Ad
Published 1, February 1, 2009 Bizarre , Politics , Society 49 Comments
PETA has been blocked from airing an ad during the Superbowl that seems a bit like soft porn for vegans. The ad, shown below, shows models getting intimate with vegetables of various types with the tagline “Studies Show Vegetarians Have Better Sex.” It would be obviously inappropriate for most kids who will be watching. Vegeporn, however, could prove a new sensation with every other fetish covered on the Internet.
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Texas Judge and Florida Prosecutor Win Favorable Treatment in Their Own Drunk Driving Cases
Published 1, February 1, 2009 Courts , Criminal law , Lawyering , Society 33 Comments
In Florida and Texas, the courts are known to be pretty harsh on DUI and other offenses. However, at least one Texas judge and Florida prosecutor seem to have found ample due process and mercy in the handling of their own DUI cases. In Waco, District Judge Elizabeth Berry, 43, has been able to keep out the result of a blood test that showed that she was driving drunk. In Tampa, former Pinellas-Pasco prosecutor Lydia Wardell, 41, (known for her own unforgiving treatment of DUI offenders) avoided jail time for her second DUI arrest.
The Nigerian 419 Scam: Man Gives $150,000 In Scam Lasting Over a Year
Published 1, February 1, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , International , Society 7 CommentsThis week, there is a new detailed account of how Nigerian scammers are still able to snare victims and bleed them for months and even years. John Rempel, of Leamington, Canada
, ultimately lost $150,000 after scam artists convinced him to send money from himself and relatives for over a year. In the process, he quit his job and traveled around the world for what is known as the Nigerian 419 scam.
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Saudi Arabia Arrests Christian Blogger Who Discussed His Conversion to Christianity From Islam
Published 1, February 1, 2009 Constitutional Law , International , Religion , Society 29 Comments
Saudi Arabia has again shown its institutional intolerance of other religions with the arrest of Hamoud Bin Saleh, 28, who wrote about how he converted to Christianity from Islam. The arrest of the blogger followed the killing of the daughter of an official in the Kingdom’s religious police who also wrote about her Christian faith.
Doughnuts Down Under: Krispy Kreme Drops Free Doughnut Policy for Police After Confrontation
Published 1, February 1, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Society 7 Comments
Doughnut have been the undoing of many a good cop. Now a Brisbane police officer has been disciplined after the junior constable got into a loud argument down under demanding free doughnuts from Krispy Kreme. It is only the latest scandal involving an officer irate over the denial of a doughnut.
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