June 2008

I have broken the law.

Ironic, isn’t it – for someone who so righteously writes about issues of crime and justice?

Here’s the deal.

When my Dad died Mom and I made that awful, painful trip to the funeral home to make final arrangements. We knew pretty much what we were going to do because Mom and Dad had both been adamant about drawing up Living Wills and writing down exactly what they wanted. (An activity I highly recommend for the peace of mind of those you leave behind.)

Among the ‘do not resuscitate’ declaration and the property disbursement directions was the request for cremation. [click to continue...]

Someone asked me an intriguing question the other day. How come prisons have gangs and drugs inside?

If prisons are supposed to be among the most secure places in our society – if they are where we send the worst of the worst – then isn’t it safe to assume they would be highly secure and safe from the troubles of the street?

Well, yes – and no.

Overall, prisons are pretty darned efficient in keeping the convicted IN. Where they loose the battle is over keeping OUT what doesn’t belong. [click to continue...]

Who hasn’t heard of that crazy lawsuit filed in Washington, D.C. last year by Judge Roy Pearson? He demanded 67 million dollars from a Korean couple’s drycleaners because they misplaced a pair of his trousers.

The hardworking Jin and Soo Chung very nearly had their American dream stolen. They almost caved under the financial pressure of their forced participation in the judicial system and headed back to South Korea. Donations from outraged citizens helped fight the injustice and showed the Chung’s America really is the land of opportunity.

At trial the courageous judge allowed Pearson’s past behavior of “creating unnecessary litigation”, (during his divorce) to be presented. Ultimately, she ruled in favor of the drycleaners and awarded them court costs. Later, Pearson’s contract as an Administrative Law Judge was not renewed. His reaction? You guessed it – Mr. Fancy Pants is now suing to get his job back! [click to continue...]