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April 14, 2004

Getting close to a police state in Charlottesville, VA

There has been a lot of talk about this case on talk radio here in Virginia. I was stunned that people see this as racism rather than an attack on the Bill of Rights -

To make a long story short, there has been a serial rapist in Charlottesville, VA for years. The police only have one clue - the guy is black.

So these "officers of the law" have convinced hundreds of black men to submit to DNA tests to clear themselves. Only ten of the men, so far, have refused. The police come back time after time to try to coerce them into giving up their DNA.

There are many, many things wrong with this, but to me, the unreasonable search and seizure component is number one. These cops don't have warrants, and apparently the populace is afraid to ask for them. I hope that Instapundit will give us a legal viewpoint on this gathering of DNA by police.

I have more links, but I have to run to work, I'll post them tonight.

Posted by Beth at April 14, 2004 7:12 AM

Comments

I can't believe Jesse isn't breathing down their necks... Where is he when he's REALLY needed?

That takes 'racial profiling' to a new low. >:(

Posted by: pam at April 14, 2004 8:02 AM

The Brits are trying to take this to the next level. If you won't voluntarily give up the DNA, they won't forcefully take it (yet)- but they are seriously considering allowing 'preventive detention' if you won't submit. And they already specifically allow a jury to draw inferences from a refusal to answer questions.

Talk about guilty until proven innocent.

Posted by: John of Argghhh! at April 14, 2004 2:05 PM

I remember when Beth campaigned for Clinton in 1992. She must think with her clit.

Sincerely,
Your Dead Dog

Posted by: nicht at April 14, 2004 7:40 PM

That was just low. Tell me, how many times did you bounce when your mother drop-kicked you down the stairs?

Your courage leaves me in awe.

We should get together sometime.

Really. You should come troll over at my place.

Posted by: John of Argghhh! at April 14, 2004 8:03 PM

Beth, thanks for alerting us to this.

These days we have to take a long hard look at threats to Americans from outside our borders. But now, more than ever, it's also important to protect the basic freedoms we still fight for. John, that was a very informative bit of info - kind of gives us a refresher course in what 1776 was all about.

Thanks to both of you for reminding us that the battle for democracy is fought on the home front as well.

Posted by: asher abrams at April 14, 2004 9:40 PM