Harold Warren Sr., 77, a Missouri funeral home director has pleaded guilty to intentionally giving three families the wrong cremated remains. This includes leaving a woman’s body in an electrical room for 10 months without embalming or refrigeration. What is interesting is that Circuit Judge Gary Oxenhandler indicated that he might not honor the plea bargain for no jail time for Warren, who is a prominent political figure in the area. There are questions of whether the prosecutors cut Warren a remarkably light deal due to his political connections and standing in the community.
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Archive for the 'Politics' Category
Funeral Director and Missouri Politician Pleads Guilty to Mishandling of Corpses
Published 1, November 21, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Lawyering , Politics , Society 16 CommentsVideo: Connecticut Officer Drives 94 Miles an Hour on Non-Emergency Call and Kills Two Teenagers
Published 1, November 21, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Politics , Society , Torts 20 CommentsMilford, Connecticut police officer Jason Anderson has been charged with two counts of second-degree manslaughter and one count of reckless driving in an accident that killed 19-year-old David Servin and 19-year-old Ashlie Krakowski. Anderson was driving at 94 miles per hour at the time and the crash was caught on the dashcam of another cruiser by Police Officer Richard Pisani.
Court: Corps of Engineers Responsible for Flood Damage in New Orleans
Published 1, November 20, 2009 Bizarre , Environment , Media , Politics , Society , Torts 21 Comments
A federal judge in New Orleans has found “monumental negligence” by the U.S. Army’s Corps of Engineers in the operation and maintenance of a shipping channel called the Mississippi River Gulf Outlet. The finding allows residents to collect damages against the U.S. government after their homes were swamped by Hurricane Katrina’s floodwaters in 2005.
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Pat Robertson Claims Islam Not Religion — and Virginia Governor-Elect McDonnell Refuses to Disavow Comment
Published 1, November 20, 2009 Bizarre , Politics , Religion , Society 36 Comments
Pat Robertson has declared that Islam is not a religion but a “violent political system.” For many, such statements are nothing new from Robertson. However, it was a bit more surprising yesterday to learn that Virginia Governor Elect Bob McDonnell has refused to disavow that view. McDonnell was opposed during the recent campaign for having extreme religious views and close ties to evangelical leaders like Robertson.
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Court: Paranoid Schizophrenic with IQ of 61 and Manic Depression is Eligible for Execution
Published 1, November 20, 2009 Bizarre , Courts , Criminal law , Lawyering , Media , Politics , Society 13 Comments
Donald Giles would appear to have the trifecta of mental incompetence arguments against execution. He is a paranoid schizophrenic with an IQ of 61 and a history of suicide attempts and depression. However, Jefferson County Circuit Judge Martin McDonald has ruled that Giles, 41, may be put to death if the jury so rules in his trial for the 2003 murder and robbery of Charles Goodlett.
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Bathe or Tase: Police Officer Tasers 10-Year-Old Girl Who Refused to Take Shower
Published 1, November 19, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Politics , Society 13 Comments
Arkansas police officer Dustin Bradshaw, used a Taser on a 10-year-old girl at the mother’s request after the little girl refused to take a shower and refused to obey him.
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Psalm Like It Hot: Conservatives Rally Around Psalm 109
Published 1, November 19, 2009 Bizarre , Politics , Religion , Society 33 Comments
Conservatives have picked a curious new slogan to oppose President Barack Obama: “Let his days be few; and let another take his office.” It is a quote from Psalm 109:8, but conservatives leave off the full passage: “Let his children be fatherless, and his wife a widow.” It is a damnation or imprecatory prayer.
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Scout or Scab? Union Threatens Legal Action Over Scout Who Cleared Trash
Published 1, November 19, 2009 Bizarre , Politics , Society 46 Comments
Nick Balzano, president of the Service Employees International Union’s Allentown chapter, may have picked the wrong target for a threat of legal action by the union. Balzano threated the city with a grievance filing after Boy Scout Kevin Anderson, 17, says he cleared a walking path in an east Allentown, Pa. park so people could walk along the river. That should have been a job given to union employees, Balzano, claimed, and is threatening a legal filing.
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Sharia Court Stones Woman to Death for Adultery — Gives Man 100 Lashes
Published 1, November 19, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , International , Politics , Religion , Society 13 Comments
The Sharia courts of Somalia have another atrocity to their credit. The Islamic court of al-Shabab sentenced a woman to be stoned to death for adultery. The man was given 100 lashes.
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Court Rules Against Arizona Deputy on Swiping Lawyer’s Note — Arpaio To Defy Court
Published 1, November 19, 2009 Bizarre , Constitutional Law , Courts , Criminal law , Lawyering , Politics , Society 24 CommentsThere has been a ruling in the Arizona case where an officer, Officer Adam Stoddard with the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office is clearly shown on this videotape reading and then swiping the confidential papers of defense attorney Joanne Cuccia in court. Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Gary Donahoe found against Stoddard and ordered him to either apologize or report to jail — a remarkably light sentence. However, his boss is Sheriff Joe Arpaio who has said that his officer will defy the order.
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Sentence First, Verdict Afterwards: Obama Assures Public KSM Will Be Convicted and Executed
Published 1, November 18, 2009 Bizarre , Congress , Constitutional Law , Courts , Criminal law , Politics , Society 48 Comments
It was the Queen of Hearts in Alice in Wonderland that declared “Sentence first! Verdict afterwards.” However, President Barack Obama appears to have taken a lesson our two from her majesty. Today, President Obama assured Americans that they should not be offended by trying Khalid Sheikh Mohammed in federal court because he will be convicted and executed. I will be discussing this story tonight on MSNBC Countdown.
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Detective Offers Conflicting Testimony in World Bank Case
Published 1, November 18, 2009 Constitutional Law , Courts , Criminal law , Lawyering , Politics , Society 8 Comments
This afternoon, the Plaintiffs in the World Bank/IMF protest case filed a notice with the Court of the receipt of an affidavit in the case from a police detective, who contradicts the sworn testimony of former D.C. (and current Philadelphia) Police Chief Charles Ramsey. As lead counsel in one of the two cases (with my colleague Daniel Schwartz of Bryan Cave), I am limited in what I can say on the case. However, to reduce calls to my office, I am posting the filing below.
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Xenophon v. Xenu: Leading Australian Senator Calls for Criminal Investigation of Church of Scientology
Published 1, November 18, 2009 Bizarre , Constitutional Law , Criminal law , Politics , Religion , Society 17 Comments
In the aftermath of the criminal conviction in France (here), the Church of Scientology is facing a call for a criminal investigation in Australia from Senator Nick Xenophon, who presented the case against the church before the legislature.
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O’Reilly: “I Don’t Care About The Constitution”
Published 1, November 18, 2009 Bizarre , Constitutional Law , Courts , Criminal law , Justice , Media , Politics , Society 75 Comments Conservative commentators continue their war on the Constitution this week with increasingly shrill rhetoric of how our laws and civil liberties are endangering us. Fox News commentator Bill O’Reilly, however, achieved a remarkable low by declaring “I don’t care about the Constitution” on air in a discussion of Attorney General Eric Holder’s decision to try five detainees in New York.
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More Randy Than Good: Man Agrees To Remove Pile of Hundreds of Dead Deer from Property
Published 1, November 17, 2009 Bizarre , Environment , Politics , Society , Torts 16 Comments
In North Buffalo, Pennsylvania, Randy Good has created a novel and disgusting nuisance. He has agreed to remove a pile of hundreds of dead deer from his property which has neighbors gagging from the odor.
Shaming Undermines Justice
Published 1, November 17, 2009 Bizarre , Constitutional Law , Courts , Criminal law , Justice , Lawyering , Politics , Society , Torts , USA Today 21 Comments
Here is today’s column in USA Today on the continuing trend toward shaming or creative punishments.
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Qaddafi Hires a Room Full of Attractive Italian Women to Convince Them to Come to Libya for a Vacation and Conversion
Published 1, November 17, 2009 Bizarre , International , Politics , Religion , Society 12 Comments
Libyan Leader Muammar al-Qaddafi (aka Muammar Abu Minyar al-Gaddafi) may have bombed at the United Nations with his rambling speech, but he is still trying to win the hearts and minds of the young. This week, Qaddafi spoke to an audience of young Italian women about the need for them to convert and come and see him in Libya for a vacation.
You Would Be Crazy Not To Own a Gun: Senators Propose Law To Guarantee Gun Ownership for Mentally Incapacitated Veterans
Published 1, November 16, 2009 Bizarre , Congress , Constitutional Law , Criminal law , Military , Politics , Society 76 Comments
We recently saw a court rule that a quadriplegic has a right to hunt with a special chair where he literally blows away deer by blowing into a tube attached to the trigger. Now, Senators have adopted a provision to guarantee the right of “mentally incapacitated” veterans to buy firearms. After the shooting at Fort Hood, the provision passed with the support of Republican North Carolina Sen. Richard Burr and Democratic Virginia Senator Jim Webb is attracting criticism.
Family Accuses Chicago Officers of Dangling Suspect Out of a Window and then Dropping Him
Published 1, November 16, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Politics , Society , Torts 6 Comments
The family of Matthias Mayhorn has filed a complaint against two Chicago police officers alleging that they dangled Mayhorn out of a second floor window, fired their weapons near him, and then dropped him. They also allege that the officers refused to call immediate medical attention. He died later at a hospital from his injuries. The case shows how one event can present radically different accounts.
President Obama Calls On China to Be More Transparent and Open — And Then Bars The Release of Any More Photos of Detainee Abuse to the Media and Public
Published 1, November 16, 2009 Bizarre , Constitutional Law , Criminal law , International , Media , Politics , Society , Supreme Court 32 Comments
President Barack Obama and his Administration set a new level of hypocrisy this weekend with calls on the Chinese government and military to end censorship and be more open with the public while barring disclosure of embarrassing photos of detainee abuse.
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Indian Tribe Sues Self-Help Author Over Use of Sweat Lodge
Published 1, November 15, 2009 Bizarre , Congress , Constitutional Law , Courts , Criminal law , International , Politics , Religion , Society 19 Comments
We previously followed the investigation into the three deaths in a sweat lodge run by “Spiritual Warrior” James Arthur Ray at the Angel Valley Retreat Center in Sedona, Arizona. Now, the Lakota Sioux Tribe is suing, demanding the prosecution of Ray under the 1869 Treaty of Fr. Laramie for appropriating a Native American ritual.
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No Good Deed Goes Unpunished: Man Convicted After Turning in a Discarded Shotgun to Police
Published 1, November 15, 2009 Bizarre , Courts , Criminal law , International , Politics , Society 35 Comments
Paul Clarke, 27, a veteran, thought that he was doing the right thing when he found a shotgun in his garden. He took the shotgun to the police station and was immediately arrested for possession of a firearm without permit and criminally charged — an offense that brings five years imprisonment. Prosecutor Brian Stalk insisted that this is a strict liability offense and his intent to help police does not matter — he is a menace to society as defined under the criminal code.
Journalist Charged with Pornography for Sending Pictures of Woman in Unassisted Child Birth to Government Officials
Published 1, November 15, 2009 Bizarre , Constitutional Law , Courts , Criminal law , International , Media , Politics , Religion , Society , Supreme Court 5 Comments
There is a disturbing trial being held in Zambia where the news editor of The Post, Chansa Kabwela, sent photos of a woman giving birth in a hospital car park without assistance to highlight the costs of a nursing strike and poor government policies. She was right. The officials, including Zambia’s President, Rupiah Banda, were horrified. They immediately arrested Kabwela for distributing pornography.
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“Religious Convictions”: When Children Die, Religion Is No Defense
Published 1, November 15, 2009 Bizarre , Columns , Constitutional Law , Courts , Criminal law , Justice , Lawyering , Media , Politics , Religion , Society , Supreme Court , Torts 17 Comments
Here is today’s column from the Washington Post on the benefits of a new type of “good-faith” defense. While “religious convictions” are usually a reference to personal faith, it turns out that it has a distinct and disturbing meaning for criminal sentencing.
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The Lawyers Who Say Meep! High School Calls Police After Attorney Says Meep to Principal
Published 1, November 14, 2009 Academics , Bizarre , Criminal law , Lawyering , Politics , Society 88 Comments
First there were the Knights Who Say Ni! (below). Now we have the problem of the lawyers who say Meep! After reading the recent publications over the decision of the principal of Danvers High School banning students from saying the word “Meep,” Entertainment lawyer Theodora Michaels decided to act and wrote a letter using the four-letter word to Principal Thomas Murray, who comes across as a high school version of Dean Vernon Wormer from Animal House. She was immediately reported to the police for investigation by the school.
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Federal Court Upholds Right of Woman to Sue After Police Officers Tackle Her In Emergency Room During Premature Birth
Published 1, November 14, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Politics , Society , Torts 7 Comments
A federal court of appeals has ruled that Melanie Dawn Williams, 24, can sue after she was tackled by Jacksonville, Florida police in a hospital where she was experiencing a premature birth. Once inside the ER and she screamed, “I’m pregnant. Someone help me. I am bleeding.” It took the intervention of a nurse to get the police to release her to deal with her serious medical condition.
Ex-Rep. William Jefferson Given 13-Year Sentence
Published 1, November 13, 2009 Courts , Criminal law , Politics , Society 7 Comments
The former Louisiana Rep. William Jefferson received a sentence of 13 years today — the longest term ever imposed on a congressman convicted of bribery. However, it was significantly below the 27 years sought by the Justice Department, which also failed in its attempt to have Jefferson immediately incarcerated. Instead, Jefferson, 62, will be allowed to remain free pending his appeals.
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9-11 Defendants to be Given Real Trials as Holder Stands on Principle — Sort Of
Published 1, November 13, 2009 Congress , Constitutional Law , Courts , Criminal law , International , Military , Politics , Society 22 Comments
Attorney General Eric Holder has ordered actual trials for five 9/11 suspects rather than military tribunals. The decision places the United States squarely back on the road of the rule of law in giving due process even to our most hated defendants. The five defendants include 9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed. The other four are Waleed bin Attash, Ramzi Binalshibh, Mustafa Ahmad al-Hawsawi and Ali Abd al-Aziz Ali. However, this courageous act was diminished by an inexplicable decision of Holder to order five other defendants — including USS Cole suspect Abd al-Rahim al-Nashiri — be tried in a military tribunal. I discussed this decision on this segment of MSNBC Countdown.
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Hasan Charged With 13 Counts of Premeditated Murder as Obama Calls for Investigation of Warning Signs
Published 1, November 13, 2009 Courts , Criminal law , Military , Politics , Religion , Society 25 Comments
Maj. Nidal M. Hasan was charged by the Army with 13 counts of premeditated murder. To the chagrin of conservative commentators, he is not charged with terrorism, a controversy I discussed last night on this segment of Rachel Maddow.
Kelo’s Revenge: Pfizer Abandons New London Site After Town Used Eminent Domain to Destroy Homes of Residents
Published 1, November 13, 2009 Bizarre , Constitutional Law , Courts , Politics , Society , Supreme Court 8 Comments
Many of us expressed outrage at the actions of the city leaders of New London, Connecticut when they used eminent domain to seize the property of citizens against their will in order to give it to the Pfizer corporation. This anger grew with the inexplicable decision of the Supreme Court in Kelo v. City of New London to uphold the abusive action. Now, after all of the pain the city caused its own residents and $80 million it spent to buy and bulldoze the property, Pfizer announced this week that it was closing the facility — leaving the city worse off than when it began. For prior testimony on the Kelo decision, click here.
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ACORN Challenges Congressional Ban on Federal Funds
Published 1, November 12, 2009 Congress , Constitutional Law , Courts , Criminal law , Politics 16 Comments
ACORN is continuing its approach of “the best defense is a good offense.” The group has not only sued the filmmakers who recently disclosed misconduct by the organization, but it is now suing Congress for its ban on federal funding to the organization, alleging a bill of attainder in singling out the non-profit.
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Keeping Corpses Straight: Rhode Island Governor Bars Same Sex Couples From Joint Funeral Arrangements
Published 1, November 12, 2009 Bizarre , Constitutional Law , Politics , Society 31 Comments
It appears that opponents of same-sex marriage cannot even tolerate the thought of gay couples being buried together. Rhode Island Governor Donald L. Carcieri (R) has vetoed a bill that would have added “domestic partners” to the list of people authorized by law to make joint funeral arrangements. He feels that idea of joint burials smacks too much of a marriage.
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Catholic Church in Delaware Files for Bankruptcy Protection on Eve of Sexual-Abuse Trial
Published 1, November 12, 2009 Bizarre , Politics , Religion , Society , Torts 26 Comments
The Roman Catholic Diocese of Wilmington appears to have learned a few secular lessons from corporate felons in that state. On the eve of the first trial of dozens of sex-abuse cases with hundreds of millions in potential damages, the diocese filed for bankruptcy to try to make any damages more difficult to collect. The decision by Bishop W. Francis Malooly is being attacked as an effort to reduce potential damages in the various cases moving toward trial.
Alma Market: North Carolina School Ordered to Stop Selling Grades as Fundraiser
Published 1, November 12, 2009 Academics , Bizarre , Politics , Society 13 Comments
Educators at the Rosewood Middle School had struggled with raising money. Candy and other traditional items did not generate much money for the Goldsboro, North Carolina school. Then they found a commodity that the public was hankering for: they started to sell grades. Until, that is, a bunch of do gooders stepped in and objected.
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Blowing Away Deer: Judge Rules That Quadriplegic Has Right to Gun To Hunt
Published 1, November 11, 2009 Bizarre , Environment , Politics , Society 70 Comments
A New Jersey judge has ruled at a quadriplegic must be allowed to buy a gun for hunting, which will be mounted on his wheelchair and fired by blowing into a tube. James Cap has been paralyzed for 30 years after an injury in a high school football game.
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O’Reilly: “We Can’t Kill All Of The Muslims So We Wanna Win As Many Hearts and Minds” As Possible
Published 1, November 11, 2009 Bizarre , International , Media , Military , Politics , Religion , Society 61 CommentsBill O’Reilly made an extraordinary statement last night in addressing the difficult fact that “we can’t kill all the Muslims.” This follows an equally bizarre statement from his interviewee Fox News contributor Col. Ralph Peters that there are no Christian or Jewish terrorists.
When In Romulus, Do As the Romulans Do: Vatican See Looks for Sinless Extraterrestrial Life
Published 1, November 11, 2009 Academics , Bizarre , Politics , Religion , Society 20 Comments
The Vatican appears to have gotten over that whole Galileo business when they were willing to put scientists to death for saying that the Earth moved around the Sun. Now, the Pope’s chief astronomer, Father Jose Gabriel Funes, says that intelligent life may exist on other planets and the Holy See is looking to the skies.
Glennbeckrapedandmurderedayounggirlin1990.com Wins in Trademark Challenge Against Glenn Beck
Published 1, November 11, 2009 Bizarre , Constitutional Law , International , Politics , Society 12 Comments
Glenn Beck has lost a bizarre trademark fight with the founder of glennbeckrapedandmurderedayounggirlin1990.com, Isaac Eiland-Hall. Eiland-Hall created the Internet sensation to mock the style of Beck and Fox News — leading to a challenge over the use of Beck’s name with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).
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Thank God: The Boy Who Was Denied Chemotherapy For Religious Reasons (and Ordered into Treatment by a Judge) Is Now Cancer Free
Published 1, November 9, 2009 Bizarre , Constitutional Law , Politics , Religion , Society , Torts 21 Comments
Many followed the case (here) of Daniel Hauser of Sleepy Eye, Minnesota when his fundamentalist Mom fled with him to avoid chemotherapy for his cancer on religious grounds. Few may be aware of the end of the story. He has completed his last chemotherapy sessions and is now cancer-free — thanks to the judge who overrode his mother’s objections.
Separation Anxiety: British Courts To Decide Who Is a Jew
Published 1, November 8, 2009 Bizarre , Constitutional Law , Courts , International , Politics , Religion , Society 6 Comments
There is an intriguing case in London where the British courts will decide who is a Jew and who decides such a question. The British have long maintained publicly supported religious schools — an affront to the separation of church and state. Now, inevitably, the state must decide who can be excluded from one of the Jewish schools run by the government. Not surprisingly, at the heart of the controversy is Lord Sacks, Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth, who recently blamed secularism for the decline and potential fall of Western Civilization, here. He insists that only children with Jewish mothers (recognized in Orthodox synagogues) are truly Jewish.
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DWF (Driving While Female): Two Professors Arrested in Saudi Arabia for Driving Themselves to the Mall
Published 1, November 8, 2009 Bizarre , Constitutional Law , International , Politics , Religion , Society 8 Comments
Jeddah police arrested two female professors from King Abdulaziz University this week for the crime of driving themselves to the mall. Police were shocked by the sight of a woman behind the wheel of a car and immediately pulled them over. We have previously followed the struggle of women to enjoy this freedom of movement in the Kingdom (here)
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Is This Your Homework, Larry? Students in Two Cases Implicated in Crimes After Allegedly Leaving Homework at the Crime Scene
Published 1, November 7, 2009 Academics , Bizarre , Criminal law , Media , Politics , Society 6 Comments
Despite the claims of parents about always doing your homework, homework has been the undoing of many a fine criminal. In two cases this week, alleged high school and college felons were implicated when they left homework at the scene of the crime.
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The Meaning of Guts
Published 1, November 7, 2009 International , Media , Politics , Religion , Society 7 Comments
Who says that a math geek cannot become a super hero? Mahmoud Vahidnia is a math student at Tehran’s Sharif Technical University where he recently won the gold medal at the country’s National Math Olympics (yes, geeks have an Olympics of their own). Vahidnia, however, has become a political icon in Iran after he publicly chastised the country’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei over the brutal crackdown of protesters.
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Sharia Family Values: Man Stoned to Death in Somalia for Adultery While Pregnant Woman Spared To Be Stoned Immediately After Giving Birth
Published 1, November 7, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , International , Politics , Religion , Society 12 Comments
The Sharia courts of southern Somalia are busy again showing the world the importance of the separation of mosque and state. In the latest outrage, the Sharia court of al-Shabab ordered Abas Hussein Abdirahman, 33, stoned to death in front of a crowd of some 300 people in the town of Merka. The Islamic judges, however, showed mercy for the woman who is pregnant. She will be allowed to give birth and then immediately stoned to death.
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Hezbollah Bans “The Diary of Anne Frank” As Zionist Propaganda
Published 1, November 6, 2009 Bizarre , Constitutional Law , Courts , Criminal law , International , Politics , Religion , Society 36 Comments
The good people at Hezbollah are offering the world another insight into extremist thought. The militant group has banned “The Diary of Anne Frank” from schools as Zionist propaganda by focusing on the plight of some Jews. I suppose when you are teaching kids to blow up innocent people, an account of an innocent victim can appear propagandistic.
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Sesame Shill? PBS Accused of Showing Anti-Fox Bias “On the Street”
Published 1, November 6, 2009 Bizarre , Media , Politics , Society 33 Comments
While conservatives believe that the Pledge of Allegiance “drives Liberals crazy,” Sesame Street seems to have the same effect on them. Conservatives are outraged by what they view as a dissing from Oscar the Grouch and an unnamed muppet who referred to a network called “Pox News” in a dismissive way.
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Congressman Promises to Drive Liberals Crazy with Pledge of Allegiance and Then Stumbles on the Words
Published 1, November 6, 2009 Bizarre , Congress , Politics , Society 24 CommentsRep. Todd Akin is under fire for claiming that saying the Pledge of Allegiance “drives liberals crazy.” However, the Missouri congressman seems to stumble on the words when he leads a group of teabaggers in Washington.
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Fighting the Biblical Beast in Texas: Evangelical Kindergarten Teacher Challenges Fingerprinting as a Sign of the Biblical Beast
Published 1, November 6, 2009 Academics , Bizarre , Politics , Religion , Society 21 Comments
An evangelical Christian kindergarten teacher has sued Texas to contest the state’s right to require her to submit to fingerprinting. Pam McLaurin, however, is not alleging privacy or contractual violations. She is alleging that fingerprinting is the Mark of the Beast foretold in the Book of Revelations and thus violates her religious beliefs. It turns out that the Beast has laid the foundations for its Kingdom on Earth in the Texas Education Agency.
The Sacking of Secularism: Chief Rabbi Denounces Secularism as Threat to Western Civilization
Published 1, November 5, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , International , Politics , Religion , Society 34 Comments
Secularists are often blamed by religious figures for everything from hurricanes to teen pregnancies. Now, it appears that secularists are also responsible for religious extremism and, oh yes, the demise of Western Civilization and Europe as we know it. No, this is not the latest religious tirade from Tony Blair. It is Chief Rabbi, Lord Sacks of Aldgate, who clearly pinned the blame for the demise of Europe on those who hold secularist views. Lord Sacks, 61, is Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth since 1991.
Lady’s Man: Italian Court Convicts Twenty-Three Americans in Kidnapping Case of Abu Omar
Published 1, November 5, 2009 Bizarre , International , Media , Military , Politics , Society 13 Comments
Twenty-three suspects, including the former CIA station chief in Milan Robert Lady, were convicted of kidnapping by an Italian court for the CIA’s “extraordinary renditions.” It is the first such trial on the controversial practice.
Praising the Dear One? Videos Raise Concerns Over Use of School Children To Praise the President
Published 1, November 5, 2009 Academics , Bizarre , Media , Politics , Society 55 Comments
We have been discussing the propriety of public schools putting on worshipful performances about President Barack Obama. While I voted for him and support many of his policies, it does concern me to see children enlisted in such performances, which are not the norm in American education or politics. While some extreme conservatives have been campaigning on this issue, I do believe that there is a legitimate objection to the use of children to sing the praises of political leaders.
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Maine Voters Repeal Law Allowing Gays to Marry
Published 1, November 4, 2009 Congress , Constitutional Law , Courts , Politics , Religion , Society 30 Comments
The gay-rights movement has suffered a harsh defeat at the hands of voters in Maine. The voters repealed a law that allowed for same-sex marriage — reducing the states allowing same-sex marriage or civil unions. Maine is now the 31st state to reject same-sex marriage. [The two men on the state seal are now strictly prohibited from marrying each other in the State of Maine].
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Save Money, Live Shorter? Wal-Mart Accused of Violating CDC Guidelines in Policies that Spread Flu
Published 1, November 4, 2009 Bizarre , Politics , Society 17 Comments
What would we do without Wal-Mart? When Wal-Mart is not destroying historic sites or abusing employees and customers (here) it is working hard to guarantee the efficient spread of swine flu or H1N1. The Center of Disease Control (CDC) is now intervening to address Wal-Mart draconian labor practices which violate the CDC guidelines, common sense, and human decency. The store imposes a “demerit” system that penalizes employees for staying home with flu-symptoms — preferring it appears for them to come to work to infect customers. It may require a slight change to the slogan “Save Money. Live Better” to reflect the shorter life expectancy for employees and customers alike.
Saudi Court Upholds Planned Beheading and Crucifixion of Convicted Rapist
Published 1, November 4, 2009 Bizarre , Constitutional Law , Criminal law , International , Media , Politics , Religion , Society 16 Comments
A Saudi court has reviewed and upheld the sentence of a 22-year-old man to be beheaded and crucified for the raping of five children. It is the latest medieval measure from the Saudi Sharia courts.
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San Jose Police Taser Man and Break His Arm After He Tries to Clean His Hands
Published 1, November 3, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Politics , Society , Torts 7 Comments
Scott Wright paid a heavy price for clean hands. Wright was working on his old Cadillac in a parking lot when San Jose police approached. When Wright reaches for a rag to wipe off the oil on his hands, the police tasered him and then beat him with their batons — breaking his arm. They proceeded to charge him with resisting arrest — a charge that we often see in such cases where officers seek to justify such encounters.
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Lawyer Charged in Bizarre Attack on State Legislator In Indiana
Published 1, November 3, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Politics , Society 5 Comments
Prosecutors in Carmel, Indiana have a perfectly bizarre crime involving a state representative, a lawyer, money-laundering for the Russian mob, a porn store, and a decades old grudge. In the case, Indiana State Representative Ed DeLaney was injured by longtime foe, lawyer Augustus Mendenhall, 38, in what the latter says was an elaborate trick gone bad.
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FBI: Dick Cheney Failed to Recollect Information on 72 Occasions in Plame Investigation
Published 1, November 2, 2009 Bizarre , Constitutional Law , Courts , Criminal law , Politics , Society 31 Comments
Former Vice President Dick Cheney found himself in the same position of not only his aide Scooter Libby but countless criminal defendants. He simply could not remember a thing about his involvement in the leaks involving Valerie Plame. Indeed, he had little recollection of his own actions on 72 occasions — even after shown material with his own writing.
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Planned Parenthood Hits Former Director in Texas With Restraining Order
Published 1, November 2, 2009 Bizarre , Constitutional Law , Courts , Politics , Society 51 Comments
There is an interesting fight between Planned Parenthood and its former director in Bryan, Texas. (Yes, it appears the same town where the Virgin Mary was recently discovered in bird droppings, here). Abby Johnson worked for Planned Parenthood for eight years, but decided to leave after watching an ultrasound of an abortion procedure. This has led to the filing of a restraining order against her by her former employer after she joined forces with the Coalition For Life.
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Obama Administration Finally Investigates Torture! . . . Oh Wait, It’s In Sri Lanka
Published 1, November 2, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , International , Military , Politics , Society 43 Comments
It appears that there is no limit to our hypocrisy on torture. While blocking any criminal investigation or prosecution of American officials for our torture program, the Obama Administration is demanding to question the Sri Lanken Army Chief Sarath Fonseka over allegations of the torture in Sri Lanka.
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Illinois Teacher Suspended For Assigning an Article on Homosexuality in the Animal Kingdom
Published 1, October 31, 2009 Academics , Bizarre , Constitutional Law , Politics , Religion , Society 11 Comments
Dan Delong, an English teacher at Southwestern High School in Piasa, Illinois has been suspended for allegedly allowing students in his English classes to read an article about homosexuality in the animal kingdom. The article that Delong allegedly had his class read was published in a 2006 edition of “The Gay Animal Kingdom” and is available at http://seedmagazine.com/content/article/the_gay_animal_kingdom.
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City Father: Utah Mayor Fires Officer For Giving Son Ticket
Published 1, October 31, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Politics , Society 5 Comments
Officer Joshua Rowell in Stockton, Utah (population 443) has been reinstated this week after being fired by Mayor Dan Rydalch. It appears that Rowell had the audacity to ticket the mayor’s son and was fired on the spot by an anger father. He was out of a job until the Top Kopp — Police Chief Heinz Kopp — and others objected.
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Pope Nixes Halloween
Published 1, October 30, 2009 Bizarre , International , Politics , Religion , Society 48 Comments
Note to self: have kids skip the Vatican this Halloween. Pope Benedict XVI has joined Kimberly Daniels at the Christian Broadcasting Network in issuing his own warning against Christians participating in Halloween. The Pope wants Catholics to know that the holiday is dangerous to not just their waistline but their eternal souls.
Eight Years For Al-Marri: Sleeper Agent Given Low Sentence by Judge Outraged by Abuses of the United States
Published 1, October 30, 2009 Bizarre , Congress , Constitutional Law , Courts , Criminal law , International , Lawyering , Military , Politics , Society 11 Comments
In a potentially important ruling for detainees held by the United States, Illinois U.S. District Judge Michael Mihm rejected prosecution demands and sentenced Qatar native Ali al-Marri to just eight years in jail — with a possible release in less than six years. The reduction from 15 years was expressly tied to the abusive conditions and treatment of al-Marri by the United States while held as an enemy combatant in South Carolina.
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Disgraced Ex-Detroit Mayor Sues Lawyer Who Disclosed Evidence that Led to His Criminal Conviction
Published 1, October 29, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Media , Politics , Society 4 Comments
Now this is a novel case. Disgraced former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick (and current Compuware worker in Texas) has sued lawyer Mike Stefani who leaked steamy text messages to a newspaper — ultimately ensnaring Kilpatrick in the scandal that led to his criminal conviction.
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Nanny State Bans Nannies: English Town Bars Parents and Nannies from Playgrounds
Published 1, October 28, 2009 Bizarre , International , Politics , Society 7 Comments
We previously discussed whether England was becoming a “Nanny State.” Now, it turns out that even the nanny is not welcomed. The city fathers (and mothers) of Watford has solved the danger of strangers bothering children by banning parents from playground areas. Mayor Dorothy Thornhill observes simply, “Sadly, in today’s climate, you can’t have adults walking around unchecked in a children’s playground.”
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Wisconsin Legislator Falls During Sobriety Check in Third Arrest for DUI in One Year
Published 1, October 28, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Politics , Society 15 Comments
Rep. Jeffrey Wood has achieved a degree of unwanted national fame after being shown in a police dashcam falling down during a sobriety test. From both a legal and political standpoint, falling down is never good during such tests. It does not make it better when this is Wood’s third arrest in less than a year on suspicion of driving under the influence.
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Is New York Facing a Financial China Syndrome?
Published 1, October 27, 2009 Bizarre , Politics , Society 19 Comments
We have previously discussed the dangers of increasing taxation in places like New York city. Now it appears that the city is facing a tax-version of the China Syndrome where over-taxation may be causing wealthier families to flee, which increases the need for higher taxes on those remaining.
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Church of Scientology and Six Leaders Found Guilty of Fraud in France
Published 1, October 27, 2009 Bizarre , International , Politics , Religion , Society 5 Comments
Given the recent refusal of a Scientology spokesman to discuss the basis of Church’s beliefs, we are unlikely to get much of a response on the conviction this week of the Church for fraud in Paris. The court convicted the Church and fined it more than 600,000 euros ($900,000). However, the court stopped short in banning the group entirely as demanded by the government.
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Shooting the Messenger: Prosecutors Subpoena Grades and Emails of Students of Innocence Project
Published 1, October 26, 2009 Bizarre , Congress , Constitutional Law , Courts , Criminal law , Lawyering , Media , Politics , Society , Supreme Court 31 Comments
There is an incredible story out of Chicago and my alma mater Northwestern University. The Cook County District Attorney has issued a sweeping subpoena to the Innocence Project at the acclaimed Medill School of Journalism — demanding such things as the grades and emails of students who worked on an investigation of the case of Anthony McKinney. The students found compelling evidence of innocence and the prosecutors are now pounding them with demands for personal information and communications. I just completed doing NPR’s Talk of the Nation on the case with Professor Barry Scheck.
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Iranians Round Up Satanists (aka Westernized Teens)
Published 1, October 26, 2009 Bizarre , Constitutional Law , International , Politics , Religion , Society , Uncategorized 4 Comments
I guess Black Sabbath will skip that tour in Iran. The Iranian government has arrested a dozen people for “promoting satanism” through underground music and “blasphemous video clips.” Fortunately, the Obama Administration recently supported a resolution supporting Muslim countries in establishing a “balancing” of free speech and respect for religion, here.
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Hooked on Automatics: Somalia Islamic Militants Force Children to Watch Executions and Learn to Use Weapons
Published 1, October 26, 2009 Bizarre , International , Military , Politics , Religion , Society 42 Comments
The Islamic al-Shabaab militia is well known for its harsh application of Sharia law in Somalia. However, it turns out that they have the same concerns about the children growing up with the wrong priorities and values as do people in the West. In the case of the al-Shabaab, the problem is a failure of parents to teach children to use weapons and their insistence on educating them on such things as reading and writing. The militia group is now forcing children to watch executions and giving away prizes of automatic weapons and grenades at children events. It is the Somali version of Hooked on Phonics.
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Saudi Journalist To Be Flogged for Airing Interview Involving Sexual Boasts
Published 1, October 25, 2009 Bizarre , Constitutional Law , Criminal law , International , Lawyering , Media , Politics , Religion , Society 5 Comments
In an attack both on free speech and the free press, Saudia Arabia has ordered a female journalist to be flogged 60 times for airing an interview with a man who bragged about his sex life. Rosanna Al-Yami was also given a two-year travel ban for her role in the episode of “A Thick Red Line,” a popular show on social taboos.
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The Watchers: The LAPD Releases IWatch in a Rather Orwellian Video
Published 1, October 25, 2009 Bizarre , Constitutional Law , Criminal law , Media , Politics , Society 22 CommentsOk, it may be early in the morning before sufficient caffeine, but this video is a little creepy, right?
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Video: Scientology Spokesman Walks Out of Nightline Interview When Asked About His Beliefs
Published 1, October 25, 2009 Bizarre , Media , Politics , Religion 26 CommentsNightline has been running a fascinating investigation into the Church of Scientology. This investigation includes this video of a walk-out of the spokesman for Scientology when asked simply about the beliefs of the church. According to the spokesman, it is “offensive” to be asked about what Scientologists specifically believe about the origins of man.
New York Mayor Bloomberg Sets Dubious Record of the Most Any Individual Has Spent on Himself for Public Office
Published 1, October 24, 2009 Bizarre , Media , Politics , Society 8 Comments
New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg has achieved a national record and perhaps a world record. Unfortunately, it is not for track or field, but the most any individual has spent of his own money in the pursuit of public office. He has already spent $85 million on his own reelection and will likely reach $140 million by November 3rd. That will bring his own spending to $250 million — that’s right a quarter of billion dollars. Do you love me now?
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No Comprendo La Constitución: Dallas Police Ticketed Dozens of Drivers for Not Speaking English
Published 1, October 24, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Media , Politics 6 Comments
Dallas police officers have cited drivers for not being able to speak English after least 38 times in the past three years. After these citations were disclosed by the media, Chief David Kunkle insisted that it was a big mistake and that such citations are only appropriate for non-English drivers of commercial vehicles.
Strange Bedfellows: Guam Archdiocese Reportedly Cites Islamic Terrorists For Moral Support in Fight Against Same-Sex Marriage
Published 1, October 24, 2009 Bizarre , Constitutional Law , International , Politics , Religion , Society , Supreme Court 30 Comments
As Guam debates legislation recognizing same-sex marriage, the Catholic Church appears to have reached out to some strange sources of support in its opposition: Islamic terrorists. In a letter being circulated from the Archdiocese of Agaña, Catholics are told that Islamic extremists may engage in suicide bombings but that they at least “value self sacrifice” and punish homosexuals with death. In a second letter without the Al Qaeda angle, Guam Archbishop Anthony Sablan Apuron still insists that homosexuality is dangerous, unhealthy, and immoral. He further adds a constitutional point of interest: saying that “the first amendment of the United States does no more than simply forbid the establishment of the state religion.”
Former New York Police Chief Bernard Kerik Jailed
Published 1, October 23, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Lawyering , Media , Politics , Society 5 Comments
Former New York City Police Commissioner Bernard Kerik has been sent to jail to await his corruption trial next week. I am not sure which is worse, the jailing or the view of Judge Stephen Robinson of the defendant, who he described as “a toxic combination of self-minded focus and arrogance.” That is not a particularly promising start to a criminal trial.
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FOP FLOP: Chicago Police Throw Benefit for Officer Who Allegedly Drove Drunk, Killed Two People, and Fled the Scene of the Accident
Published 1, October 23, 2009 Bizarre , Media , Politics , Society 7 Comments
The Chicago Fraternal Order of Police union is being hit with complaints over a benefit planned this week at the police union headquarters for officer Joseph Frugoli, who is accused of crashing into a car while driving drunk on the Dan Ryan in April, killing two people. Officers are throwing the bash with invitations marked “10-1,” the radio call for an officer in need of assistance. It is not clear if it is BYOB.
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The Marquis de Sade Defense: Former Judge Claims To Have Been Schooling Inmates Allegedly Raped and Spanked in His Chambers
Published 1, October 22, 2009 Bizarre , Courts , Criminal law , Lawyering , Politics , Society 12 Comments
Former Mobile County Circuit Judge Herman is offering a defense in his criminal case that may strike some as more appropriate for the Marquis de Sade than an Alabama jurist. Accused of having inmates brought to his chamber for sex and spanking, Herman insists that he was trying to rehabilitate and educate the men.
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Too Much Focus, Too Little Family: Focus on the Family Employee Pleads Guilty to Attempted Sexual Assault on a Child
Published 1, October 22, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Politics , Religion , Society 4 Comments
A Former Focus on the Family employee in Colorado Springs, Juan Ovalle, appears a bit too focused on the kinder. He has been sentenced to five years probation for attempting to lure an underage teen into having sex with him. He founded Spanish Christian Audio in 2001 to help Christian organizations with their audio needs.
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George Bush: Motivational Speaker
Published 1, October 22, 2009 Bizarre , Media , Politics , Society 28 Comments
George Bush appears to have finally found his calling. According to this report, he will start his new career this month as a motivational speaker with “Get Motivated!” (the exclamation point is part of the official name) in Fort Worth, Texas.
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The Turley Trebuchet
Published 1, October 22, 2009 Academics , Bizarre , Media , Politics , Society 27 Comments
I give you (as promised) the Turley Trebuchet.
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Mukasey: Our Laws Brought About 9-11 Attacks
Published 1, October 21, 2009 Bizarre , Constitutional Law , Courts , Criminal law , International , Media , Military , Politics , Society 31 Comments
Former Bush Attorney General Michael Mukasey now appears to be blaming our legal system for the 9-11 attacks as opposed to documented failures by the FBI and the failure of the Bush Administration to heed direct warnings of an imminent attack. In an op-ed piece this week, Mukasey puts the blame squarely on the shoulders of our rights-infested legal system.
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Israel To Seek Change in Law of War to Block War Crimes Investigation
Published 1, October 21, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , International , Justice , Lawyering , Media , Military , Politics , Society 12 Comments
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu seems to be morphing into George W. Bush. Faced with findings of a respected former war crimes prosecutor that Israel may have committed war crimes in its Gaza offensive, the prime minister instructed his government to seek changes to the international laws of war to retroactively justify any actions taken in Gaza.
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Police Officer Gets Caught in “Compromising Position” in Bar, Gets Thrown Out, Returns to Destroy the Evidence . . . And Receives Just a Five Day Suspension
Published 1, October 20, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , Politics , Society 5 Comments
The Norfolk Constabulary has a curious notion of discipline for its officers. Acting Specials Chief Inspector Dean Saxton, 30, is accused of first causing a ruckus in a bar (or “public house”) and then returning a few days later to destroy the evidence of the controversy. The punishment for using official authority to destroy evidence of misconduct? Five days suspension.
Report: ATF Bans French Wine Over Saucy Poem on Label
Published 1, October 20, 2009 Bizarre , International , Media , Politics , Society 30 Comments
When I first read this story, I was sure it was a hoax, but now I am not sure. According to wine sites, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has denied a permit to import Château Haut Gay (AOC Bordeaux Supérieur) because the label is “an incentive to debauchery.” The wine’s bright orange label featured two verses of the poem “L’Ame du Vin” (“The Soul of Wine”) by 19th-century poet Charles Baudelaire. While I have few remaining illusions as to government work, this one remains unbelievable. If this is a hoax, it is brilliant. If it is true, it is a national disgrace.
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Wanted: Single Good, Democratically Elected African Leader to Collect $5 Million
Published 1, October 20, 2009 Bizarre , International , Politics , Society 3 Comments
The Mo Ibrahim Foundation is famous for handing out $5 million each year as a prize for African good governance. This year it is keeping its money and prize for lack of anyone who could claim both democratic election and good government on the continent of Africa.
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Suicidal Speech: Minnesota Case Raises Difficult Questions Over Assisted Suicide and Free Speech
Published 1, October 20, 2009 Bizarre , Constitutional Law , Courts , Criminal law , International , Lawyering , Media , Politics , Society 5 Comments
Prosecutors in Minneapolis have a fascinating case involving assisted suicide and free speech. Nurse William Melchert-Dinkel, 47, is accused of using Internet chat rooms to convince people to commit suicide, giving them step-by-step instructions on how to kill themselves — preferably so he could watch. At least two people are believed to have fed Melchert-Dinkel’s fetish with their deaths: Nadia Kajouji, 18, and Mark Drybrough, 32 (shown here).
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Rights of the Rubenesque: London Considers Making Fatism a Form of Hate Speech
Published 1, October 19, 2009 Bizarre , Constitutional Law , Courts , International , Justice , Lawyering , Media , Politics , Society , Torts 17 Comments
Today’s column on blasphemy laws may be too narrow. In San Francisco and London, activists are demanding that denigrating someone as fat should be treated as a hate crime like race, age, or faith. “Fatism” is already banned in San Franscisco in housing and workplaces.
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Father Kills 22-Year-Old Pregnant Daughter in Honor Killing
Published 1, October 19, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , International , Media , Politics , Religion , Society 6 CommentsWe have yet another “honor killing” in the Middle East. An unnamed Jordanian man was charged on Sunday with murdering his 22-year-old daughter after finding out that she was pregnant. He killed her and her unborn child with a sword to preserve the honor of his family.
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Polar Attraction: Sharpton Threatens Limbaugh With Lawsuit
Published 1, October 19, 2009 Bizarre , Lawyering , Media , Politics , Society , Torts 27 Comments
In American politics there are few more polarizing figures than Al Sharpton and Rush Limbaugh. Now, in what will be a spasmodic moment of euphoria for many, Sharpton and Limbaugh may be going to court with the former suing the latter for defamation. Putting aside the sheer joy of the moment for many, the case could present some interesting questions over whether Limbaugh defamed Sharpton in a Wall Street Journal Op-ed.
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Ivy League Clipping: Harvard Loses Half a Billion Dollars in Bad Investment Gamble
Published 1, October 19, 2009 Academics , Bizarre , Politics , Society 9 Comments
Harvard University is reeling from a uniquely bad business gamble. The school lost at least $500 million when it bet that interest rates would rise. The money went to investment banks this year due to $1.1 billion of interest-rate swaps intended to hedge variable-rate debt for capital projects. The loss will likely grow considerably. It also agreed to pay $425 million over 30 to 40 years to offset an additional $764 million in swaps.
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Just Say No To Blasphemy: U.S. Supports Egypt in Limiting Anti-Religious Speech
Published 1, October 19, 2009 Academics , Bizarre , Congress , Constitutional Law , Courts , Criminal law , International , Justice , Lawyering , Media , Politics , Religion , Society , Supreme Court 47 CommentsHere is today’s column in USA Today on the Obama Administration’s decision to join the U.N. Human Rights Council and support Egypt in recognizing limits on free speech for those who insult or denigrate religion. While the exception was included in a resolution heralding free speech, it was viewed as a major victory for Muslim countries seeking to establish an international blasphemy law.
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How Obama Can Earn the Nobel Prize
Published 1, October 18, 2009 Constitutional Law , Courts , Criminal law , International , Media , Military , Politics , Society 56 Comments
Below is today’s brief column in the Los Angeles Times where I joined other writers on how each of us believes President Obama can earn the Nobel Prize, here. For civil libertarians, Obama’s selection is the ultimate triumph of hope over experience. My suggestion is probably predictable for people on this blog.
Somalia Extremists Crackdown on “UnIslamic” Use of Bras
Published 1, October 18, 2009 Bizarre , Criminal law , International , Politics , Religion , Society 6 Comments
Muslim extremists in Somalia are taking to the streets to address the latest threat to Islam under Sharia law: bras. The men from Al Shabaab have been whipping women found to be wearing the “deceptive” garments.
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Off Target: Store Under Attack of Illegal Alien Costume
Published 1, October 17, 2009 Bizarre , Media , Politics , Society 15 Comments
Target is under attack for one of its new Halloween costumes: the illegal alien. The space alien is dressed in an orange prison jumpsuit with “illegal alien” blazoned across its front and holds a large card reading “green card.”
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Chicago High School Reports 115 Pregnant and New Mothers Out of 800 Students
Published 1, October 17, 2009 Bizarre , Politics , Society 44 Comments
This is an amazing and depressing statistic. There are 800 girls at Chicago’s Paul Robeson High School. Out of 800 girls, 115 are now pregnant or recently had children.
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Bunny Briquettes: Stockholm Burns Rabbits to Heat City
Published 1, October 17, 2009 Bizarre , Environment , International , Politics , Society 11 Comments
City officials in Stockholm are feeling the heat over rabbit fuel. The city relies on green technology, including biofuel to reduce pollution and global warming. So, when thousands of rabbits had to be culled from Sweden’s parks and streets, they were used as fuel in the city heating plant. Now, people are hopping mad, but officials are having “burn, bunny, burn.”
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Louisiana Justice of the Peace Refuses to Marry Interracial Couples
Published 1, October 16, 2009 Bizarre , Constitutional Law , Courts , Lawyering , Politics , Society , Torts 37 Comments
Keith Bardwell, justice of the peace in Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana has become an infamous figure overnight after he refused to marry an interracial couple out of concern for their possible children. However, he helpfully explained “I’m not a racist. I just don’t believe in mixing the races that way.”
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