Indictments by race or alleged crimes?

One would like to think that the criminal justice system is beyond reproach and that everyone is treated equally. Well my friends, here is your wake up call, it is not. The recent publicity surrounding Atlanta Falcon's quarterback Michael Vick is just one example of the disparate treatment. I would like to believe the old saying that you are innocent until proven guilty is still true, but once it hits the news media it does not matter if it is true. The media will have labeled that person guilty.

There is no question that if what is being reported about Vick is true, then he needs to be punished severely. However, let's not rush to judgment and allow the criminal justice system, no matter how flawed, to run its course. Now the race issue. Are pro athletes treated differently because of their celebrity status...of course. Should they be given a pass in some instances based on their status, it depends. If the average person does not have to be subjected to trivial matters played out in the media then just maybe some of the celebs should be afforded that same privacy. It appears that minority athletes and in particular African-Americans are scrutinized more stringently than others. I believe that it is a love hate relationship with the media that produces all this negative attention. If the media can get their hands on a piece of controversial news about a black athlete, the horse is off and running. Negativity sells and it does not claim to be impartial, unless you have some one or entity backing you.

Indictments are accusations that need to be proven in a court of law. "You can indict a ham sandwich" comes to mind when I heard about this Vick indictment. The prosecutor will have to build a rather circumstantial case to prove that Vick had anything to do with or had any knowledge of this matter. In my own mind, I think he is guilty, however, I have nothing to base this on but a gut feeling. I would hope and expect that the criminal justice system does not work along those same lines. Yet, I would be naive to think that it does not.

So, for those who are suspect of this indictment as I am, just look back in time or do a little research and see what you come up with. This writer has been around long enough to have observed the two systems of justice and has come to the realization that race was definitely a factor. You decide for yourself.


"Turning your back on injustice today makes it available for you tomorrow." Dr. BLR

Are there two systems of justice?

The criminal justice system has evolved over the years into a complex and often confusing phenomenon. What applies to some does not always apply to all. The confusion over the way punishment is meted out is justified because no one can fully explain how the system works. Criminals for some reason have learned to maneuver through it with relative ease. Lawyers have also been able to assist some of their clients with unusual success. Why can't the average person figure it out? The criminal justice system is so convoluted because it was designed that way.

No, this is not a conspiracy theorist gone awry. If you step back and look at the bigger picture, some patterns will begin to materialize. It is no secret that law schools around the country are pumping out lawyers at an exaggerated pace. These young and starry eyed professionals are graduating and flooding the market. Not everyone will be able to land that high six figure job with a private law firm. Some will have to grunt it out and take positions in prosecutor's offices for minimal pay. Others will not utilize their degrees and opt to go into other fields. Then there are some who will do pro bono work and work for non-profit organizations. So what am I suggesting? Everyone who gets caught up in the criminal justice system will never have an equal opportunity to be represented. It all depends on your status in life. As eloquently stated by author, Jeffrey Reiman, " The rich get richer and the poor get prison."

Why does this system work in such a manner? Well, upon closer examination it becomes apparent that the criminal justice system is a business rather than an entity that looks for truth and justice. Accordingly, it is in the best interest of judges, lawyers, police officers, correction officers, probation officers, parole officers, social workers, psychologists. . . I hope you get the message, to maintain the status quo. Please do not misconstrue what is being said. Yes, some people are just inherently bad and need to be dealt with, but as a whole human behavior can be corrected. The systems that are put in place are by no means put there for rehabilitation. Re-entry is not paramount, however, recidivism is expected and wanted.

"Show that compassion has a new beginning by starting it today." Dr. BLR

Til death do us part.

Life is a precious commodity that we must all cherish. Inasmuch as we are not guaranteed the next minute, we must appreciate all of the time that we are afforded on this earth. One of the unfortunate realities of the law enforcement profession is death. Everyday that a police officer puts on their uniform and goes to work, they are not guaranteed a return trip home to their loved ones. If no one has told you, then let me be the first. . . someday you might not get a chance to go home. Not every profession has to deal with this possibility.

The unfortunate death of New York police officer Russell Timoshenko is a sad reminder that in some neighborhoods there is a disdain for law enforcement. That does not mean that police officers are not appreciated. What it means is that cops must always remain vigilant and cognizant of their surroundings. The coming days will be for the police community to mourn for a fallen brother, but like anything else, we must move on. My sincerest condolences to my fallen comrade. You will not be forgotten. Rest in peace...


" Happiness is knowing that fond memories are just a thought away." Dr. BLR

The 1967 Newark Riots or Newark Rebellion?

The Newark Riots were devastating for all that were there and for those who had to observe it on the news. The intentions of the police and military must be questioned. The riots, or as they were referred to, were more about the struggle of a group of people rather than the exploitation of an opportune moment. Should the riots be referred to as a "rebellion"? Never in this time frame or any other for that matter will the powers that be understand what struggle and oppression will do to a person's psyche. Do more rebellions have to take place before it is realized? Criminal behavior should be addressed swiftly and harshly, but which participants are we going to label as criminal? You do the research and make your own well informed decision.

" Fight for the injustice that needs to be corrected." Dr. BLR

Murder or unintentional consequence? You be the judge.

The recent shooting by Maplewood police officers of a mentally ill African-American male in Maplewood, N.J., has caused some individuals to question the judgment of the responding police officers. The family of the mentally ill man called 911 to report that the man was inflicting damage upon himself with a knife. The family member allegedly advised the 911 dispatcher that the man was mentally ill. Upon arrival, the police officers encountered the mentally ill man standing outside of his property and stabbing himself in the shoulder area. When asked on several occasions to drop the knife the man allegedly stated "are you going to shoot me if I don't?" At this point it is alleged that the man proceeded toward the police officers with the knife still is his hand. According to eyewitnesses, while several feet away, the police officers shot and subsequently killed the mentally ill man. What did you decided?

" Let your experience be your guide because you are probably right." Dr. BLR