This is what happens... when you "criminalize" terrorism...

From here:

Judge Warns Against Shackling Padilla in Court
Friday, February 03, 2006

MIAMI — U.S. officials who want terror suspect Jose Padilla to wear handcuffs and ankle chains during open court appearances must first show he poses a direct safety threat, a federal judge said Friday.

U.S. District Judge Marcia Cooke made the statement after Padilla appeared in the shackles for his first appearance before her since his transfer in January from military custody as an alleged Al Qaeda "enemy combatant" to a criminal defendant.

"At some point in time, people have to be able to write, take notes," Cooke said. "No handcuffs in court, please."

"Really. Now, now, boys... let's give the poor dear some breathing space, now, okay? Just take the cuffs off that poor, sweet man. What's that, Mr. Padilla? Death to America? Yes, I understand your anger, you poor, misunderstood victim of capitalism. You have every reason to be angry! What's that? Death to my children? Now, now, Mr. Padilla... don't get personal. What's that? Death to the cartoonists? Now you done it, buster!

Hang the bastard!!" (gavel)


(Filed under religion of peace?, the fifth column)