Robin Hooders in Court – Twitter Feed from Keene Sentinel

by | Jun 11, 2013 | 0 comments

Thanks to Jacqueline Palochko from the Keene Sentinel for live tweeting during the hearing today. Stay tuned here to Free Keene for a write-up, coverage by other media, and full video.


Rich Paul Sentenced – Full Video + Rich’s Speech

by | Jun 8, 2013 | 2 comments

2013_04_20_freerichRich Paul bravely faced down 100 years in prison to stand up for principle and attempt to hasten the demise of the insane war on drugs. Yesterday, Rich was sentenced to one year in county jail, many more suspended in prison, a three year probation, and fines.

At the sentencing hearing the court heard well-researched and passionate speeches from defense attorney Kim Kossick, Rich’s parents, and Rich himself:

You can see raw video below of Kim and Rich’s parents’ speeches as well as a ridiculous beginning portion where judge John C. Kissinger enters the court and immediately threatens the audience regarding cameras. (more…)

WINNING! Palmer Settles Camera Arrest Case for $5,000.

by | Jun 8, 2013 | 8 comments

Back in October 2012, I was arrested for recording video in the town hall of Palmer, MA. The arrest was clearly illegal, but that didn’t stop Palmer Police officer Raymond Tenczar from putting handcuffs on me, then putting me in a cage. After all, the legal council for the town had told them they could and they’d even posted hastily-printed signs on the building that morning that prohibited recording. They didn’t want a repeat of 2011, where CopBlock‘s Pete Eyre and I walked all around the building, recording and asking the bureaucrats tough questions. (We were there to view a tax sale and support our friend Jay Noone who was having his home stolen by the people calling themselves the “Town of Palmer”.)

Their plan would have worked if it weren’t for those pesky liberty activists and the ACLU of Massachusetts!

Not only did Palmer district court eventually dismiss the “disorderly conduct” charges “with prejudice” (meaning they can’t bring them back against me), but the town bureaucrats paid out $5,000 as a settlement.

Takeaways from the experience:

1. Just because bureaucrats print a sign saying you can’t do something, doesn’t mean you can’t do that thing. They are liars.
2. Don’t stop recording. Be polite about it, but stand your ground. (more…)