A call just came in on Porc 411. It seems that Kat Kanning has been arrested while attending Lauren's trial! :'(
:'(
BULLSHIT!!! :(
it's just wrong
Shit.
Good luck to Kat then. I hope she makes it.
What the fuck?? >:(
Quote from: Kevin Dean on September 24, 2008, 12:42 PM NHFT
A call just came in on Porc 411. It seems that Kat Kanning has been arrested while attending Lauren's trial! :'(
Can you post the audio? What was she arrested for?
So, Kat was considered a flight risk and deemed "uncooperative" and is being held in jail pending trial on September 30.
You can hear the audio here (http://monochromementality.com/data/files/audio/msg0075.wav).
It says:
"Uh, Hi, this is Dale. I am in Concord. We just attended Lauren's trial. She got 15 days. She was found guilty of all charges. Given 15 days with a maximum of 30 days. Kat was arrested after entering the building. They waited until we, had to you know, we didn't have any cameras of course, once we're in the building so we couldn't film any of that and that was clearly intentional 'cause they could have arrested her sooner. And she is, uh, she was arraigned today so.. And they wouldn't release her today because they considered her a flight risk and they said she was clearly uncooperative, so she is in jail. And we'll be, uh, have her trial on the 30th of September so that's the update. I can't think of anything else right up of the top of my head, there'll be more details coming out about the trial soon. Okay. Time for pizza."
Flight Risk?
Yeah, she is a flight risk.
If, by flight risk, you mean "Recognized the people in front of me are full of shit and willing to tell others that truth."
will there be another protest on 09/30?
Quote from: Kevin Dean on September 24, 2008, 05:40 PM NHFT
So, Kat was considered a flight risk and deemed "uncooperative" and is being held in jail pending trial on September 30.
Wow. :(
How many more arrests until she reaches this - http://www.volunteertv.com/home/headlines/29641154.html
T-shirt design by politicalGRAFFITI
(http://politicalgraffiti.com/nhfree/images/US-vs-Kat.jpg)
exactly
Whoa, this is unbelievable! :'(
Would it be a good idea for me to make up a paper on this to post on bulletin boards in stores and anywhere else I can think of up this way?
I would like to try and make more people aware of what is going on and maybe rally some more support for Kat and Lauren, would my idea work or does someone else have better suggestions?
"Prisoner of Conscious" or "Prisoner of Conscience"?
Quote from: J'raxis 270145 on September 25, 2008, 08:00 AM NHFT
"Prisoner of Conscious" or "Prisoner of Conscience"?
I have already had great fun with Tom over this, he will be correcting it when he gets home. ;D
Thats what happens when you get on the computer and try to be creative before your spelling/grammar checker wakes up!
Quote from: Becky Thatcher on September 25, 2008, 08:51 AM NHFT
Quote from: J'raxis 270145 on September 25, 2008, 08:00 AM NHFT
"Prisoner of Conscious" or "Prisoner of Conscience"?
I have already had great fun with Tom over this, he will be correcting it when he gets home. ;D
Thats what happens when you get on the computer and try to be creative before your spelling/grammar checker wakes up!
I noticed it, but wasn't sure it was unintentional. It works both ways, doesn't it? Kat is "conscious" of the twisted reality of the political system; her jailors aren't.
Quote from: raineyrocks on September 25, 2008, 07:38 AM NHFT
I would like to try and make more people aware of what is going on and maybe rally some more support for Kat and Lauren, would my idea work or does someone else have better suggestions?
I think it's great, Rainey. I don't think there's such a thing as doing too much to get the word out about what's happening.
Quote from: Becky Thatcher on September 25, 2008, 08:51 AM NHFT
Quote from: J'raxis 270145 on September 25, 2008, 08:00 AM NHFT
"Prisoner of Conscious" or "Prisoner of Conscience"?
I have already had great fun with Tom over this, he will be correcting it when he gets home. ;D
Thats what happens when you get on the computer and try to be creative before your spelling/grammar checker wakes up!
Before his conscience was conscious?
Fixed it...
Images are my bag baby, not text. ;D
Quote from: Friday on September 25, 2008, 10:10 AM NHFT
Quote from: Becky Thatcher on September 25, 2008, 08:51 AM NHFT
Quote from: J'raxis 270145 on September 25, 2008, 08:00 AM NHFT
"Prisoner of Conscious" or "Prisoner of Conscience"?
I have already had great fun with Tom over this, he will be correcting it when he gets home. ;D
Thats what happens when you get on the computer and try to be creative before your spelling/grammar checker wakes up!
I noticed it, but wasn't sure it was unintentional. It works both ways, doesn't it? Kat is "conscious" of the twisted reality of the political system; her jailors aren't.
Then you would be a "prisoner of consciousness" and the only way to free yourself would be to become... unconscious. ;D
Damn, turns out I can't take the 30th off after all.
One suggestion I'd like to make:
When you rise for the Honorable Defendant, remain standing until the "judge" enters. Then, of course, promptly sit down.
Quote from: The Right Reverend Doctor Pope Sir Ryan on September 25, 2008, 06:04 PM NHFTWhen you rise for the Honorable Defendant, remain standing until the "judge" enters. Then, of course, promptly sit down.
Most excellent...
Joe
I'll be visiting the area next week and I'd like to show my support for Kat. What time on 9.30.08? Is 55 Pleasant St the correct address?
Anyone want to pursue a transcript of the hearing...
Good stuff in there.
Quote from: raineyrocks on September 25, 2008, 07:38 AM NHFT
Whoa, this is unbelievable! :'(
Would it be a good idea for me to make up a paper on this to post on bulletin boards in stores and anywhere else I can think of up this way?
I would like to try and make more people aware of what is going on and maybe rally some more support for Kat and Lauren, would my idea work or does someone else have better suggestions?
that's a great idea rainey!
Quote from: dalebert on September 25, 2008, 10:48 AM NHFT
Quote from: raineyrocks on September 25, 2008, 07:38 AM NHFT
I would like to try and make more people aware of what is going on and maybe rally some more support for Kat and Lauren, would my idea work or does someone else have better suggestions?
I think it's great, Rainey. I don't think there's such a thing as doing too much to get the word out about what's happening.
But . . . Someone might get of
fended!
Oh, sorry, wrong thread . . .
Quote from: peacenic on September 25, 2008, 06:47 PM NHFT
I'll be visiting the area next week and I'd like to show my support for Kat. What time on 9.30.08? Is 55 Pleasant St the correct address?
Correct on place and date. Don't know about time.
Quote from: Tom Sawyer on September 25, 2008, 06:56 PM NHFT
Anyone want to pursue a transcript of the hearing...
Good stuff in there.
Absolutely. I want to blog about it and possibly do a toon about it if something occurs to me.
It really crystallizes to this former armchair libertarian that right and wrong are not merely abstract ideas to debate, but rather they should be lived, when a friend gets arrested. :'(
FREE KAT AND LAUREN!
Quote from: Tom Sawyer on September 25, 2008, 04:39 PM NHFT
Images are my bag baby, not text. ;D
Yeah, text, and that Swedish-made penis enlarger pump :drevil:
This might have to be split off... Why does Friday know about the penis enlarger pump?
And why would swedes need such pumps?
Why does Friday know about the penis enlarger pump?
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51Y7P3J24AL._SS400_.jpg)
http://www.amazon.com/Swedish-Pistol-Trigger-Nodgeled-Silicone/dp/B000LQOZ9A/ref=acc_glance_hpc_ai_-2_3_tit (http://www.amazon.com/Swedish-Pistol-Trigger-Nodgeled-Silicone/dp/B000LQOZ9A/ref=acc_glance_hpc_ai_-2_3_tit)
By Yimmeny! Those Swedes are industrious.
Kat is in the Merrimack Jail
http://www.newhampshirefreepress.com/NHFreePress/?q=node/225
The Merrimack County Department of Corrections
314 Daniel Webster Highway
Boscawen, NH
03303
603-796-3600
Quote from: Friday on September 25, 2008, 11:08 PM NHFT
Quote from: Tom Sawyer on September 25, 2008, 04:39 PM NHFT
Images are my bag baby, not text. ;D
Yeah, text, and that Swedish-made penis enlarger pump :drevil:
;D ;D ;D
It's not mine... no really.
"That will be five dollars and twenty nine cents"
"Thank you sir, 'have a good one!'"
"I already have a 'good' one. I need a 'bigger one!"
OK! Clearly this Topic has gone to Hell. Can someone split off this humorous, but, not specific to Kat stuff?
Quote from: Lloyd Danforth on September 26, 2008, 08:32 AM NHFT
OK! Clearly this Topic has gone to Hell. Can someone split off this humorous, but, not specific to Kat stuff?
Wow, and I had nothing to do with the change of direction in this one for a change! ;D
NH Magazine's 2006 Woman of the Year in Federal Court for resisting the US Government
(http://politicalgraffiti.com/nhfree/images/nh_magazine.jpg)
Ultra cool. Great pic too!
does anyone know what time the trial/demo will be on tuesday?
Just to let everyone know, Russell received a phone call from Kat today while he was in Keene, which was totally unexpected. (As an aside, while she and Lauren were waiting for their respective times in court on Wednesday, they were close enough to sing songs together). She's been taken out of maximum and put in the normal population, but was roughed up over noncooperation regarding dressing, was slammed to the ground, and said that her head was hurting for the day. She's able to both receive and send mail at this time as Kathryn Dillon. She'll be there until Tuesday; her court date in Concord is at 1:30pm. Russell and Kira are planning on showing up outside the Merrimack jail on Sunday to hold signs if anyone would like to support them in solidarity.
This is Kat's first time in jail, and personally, I've got to say that her replies to the judge when he asked her how she pleaded were incredibly lucid and insightful. "I am not guilty of torturing innocent people." I was aware that what was on the line for her was a daughter that was being left at home without her mother; not for committing a crime, but for protesting those in power that do commit crimes and get away with in in full public view.
i assume there will be a demonstration before the "trial". what time should people get there?
Quote from: Tree Fairy on September 26, 2008, 09:54 PM NHFT
This is Kat's first time in jail.
Is that true? She's never been held in jail for her previous arrests?
According to Russell (sitting 2 feet from me), this is the first time she's spent the night in jail.
Kat said her trial was at 1:30 .... some of us will get there at high noon
She sounded ok. She said the fed guy who brought her to the jail saved her some abuse, but that it got worse after her 1st day in the bubble. She said she will be in the normal population and sleep on the floor in a room with a bunch of people. She had 2 mattresses in the bubble (what luxury, I have never had 1). She had received a book today. She got a phone card with 22 minutes on it and she called us in Keene.
I called her Mom and she really doesn't like the feds.
Kathryn Dillon
The Merrimack County Department of Corrections
314 Daniel Webster Highway
Boscawen, NH
03303
603-796-3600
she will love mail and will get treated better in jail when she gets lots of mail.
she sent me a letter today I think
Kira and I will be outside Kat's prison this afternoon.
Quote from: Russell Kanning on September 26, 2008, 10:51 PM NHFT
Kat said her trial was at 1:30 .... some of us will get there at high noon
I said I couldn't make it and I thought that was the end of that.
However, I will make every effort to attend.
THIS IS A PUBLIC TRAIL! Let's try to fill those benches with
real members of the public. If
we don't fill those benches you know the fedboys & girls will try.
HEY! POLITICAL TYPE PEOPLE: Please support Kat! You guys & gals know about working together - right?
Well, I've stood with you guys during EVERY election cycle since getting HOME to NH in early (Feb.) 2004. If I don't see SUBSTANTIAL support from your side on Tuesday, I may well stay home in November. That obviously means zero support in October as well!
SHALL SOME OF US CROSS THE DIVIDE? OR, SHALL WE ALL GO SEPERATE WAYS?
You don't even have to not stand for the judge (though it's right - & fun - not to ;) .) THANK YOU IN ADVANCE FOR YOUR ATTENDANCE!
Called 6 people today who aren't on the forum that much and invited them. Sent the following to concord and keene media along with my contact info.
----
NH: Woman faces 30 days for anti-torture demonstration
Kat Kanning of Keene, New Hampshire is set to appear in Concord's Federal court Tuesday, Sept 30. She has already served several days in jail because she performed a stubborn but peaceable anti-torture protest in a Keene IRS lobby. There will be a demonstration one block west of the Fed courthouse, 55 Pleasant Street, Concord, NH. It starts at noon; projected turnout 20. The trial starts 90 minutes later.
Updatable Details:
http://nhunderground.com/forum/index.php?topic=15457.0
Video news report from Kanning's arrest last week:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ifTnmzLCml4
Kira and I were not able to be outside the jail yesterday.
After I do some roof work tomorrow morning, we will head over to the ministry of love in concord to see if they let my wife/Kira's Mom go.
I'm trying to round up people myself. If anyone in Manchester wants a ride up, email me at olson -@- jraxis·com.
I just got a collect call from Kat.
She was dragged to a trial today in Concord. I guess they wanted to get things over with or avoid all of us coming to the courtroom. She called Lauren as a witness, so the judge got mad. He said that Lauren was not there. Kat asked if she could still call her and the judge grudgingly agreed that yes she could call Lauren. She is also calling DiMartino to the stand. So it is a party with DiMartino tomorrow. :) Kat was getting quite a kick out of causing them problems.
So Kat thinks the trial will happen as early as 10am. I think it could be earlier.
They will be dragging Lauren to the courtroom as a witness.
Kat says she has not gotten any letters except from me. She is in the normal female population.
So can anyone figure out when the trial will happen?
I guess I will head over there in the morning.
I called the court and it is continuing at 10am tomorrow.
That is what they are saying now. They will also probably know that some of us will be there at that time.
Quote from: Russell Kanning on September 29, 2008, 03:16 PM NHFT
I just got a collect call from Kat.
She was dragged to a trial today in Concord. I guess they wanted to get things over with or avoid all of us coming to the courtroom. She called Lauren as a witness, so the judge got mad. He said that Lauren was not there. Kat asked if she could still call her and the judge grudgingly agreed that yes she could call Lauren. She is also calling DiMartino to the stand. So it is a party with DiMartino tomorrow. :) Kat was getting quite a kick out of causing them problems.
So Kat thinks the trial will happen as early as 10am. I think it could be earlier.
They will be dragging Lauren to the courtroom as a witness.
Kat says she has not gotten any letters except from me. She is in the normal female population.
So can anyone figure out when the trial will happen?
I guess I will head over there in the morning.
Crpap'n frig snab'n cock frock dragg'n brag frick'n pieces a... brandish ass bastards!
This shit's go'n a test my fuck'n cool tomorrow!
Frikkin gang of weaselin bastards.
At every turn they show how mean and duplicitous they can be... oh well, WTF do we expect they are lawyers after all. Lawyers have no sense of morals or right and wrong just whatever they can get away with.
Good on Kat for standing up to them. I have been thinking that the only thing that really matters to the "judge" is what gets entered into the written record. As such I think that a defendent should narrate their trial. ie. Your manner suggests you are angry with me... I feel intimidated by your behavior etc.
turns out i can't go :(. our babysitter just quit. i hope you get her back soon, russell : /. i've actually only met kat once, and it was at a rally in dover when you were in prison. i remember how hard it seemed for her, and i can only imagine that it must be the same for you.
Dale you still looking for riders from Keene?
my prayers are with Kat. I hope she gives em hell.
Quote from: Jared on September 29, 2008, 04:58 PM NHFT
turns out i can't go :(. our babysitter just quit.
Can you bring the kids with you? (Maybe wearing little signs reading,
WE ARE "THE CHILDREN," AND DON'T TRY TO SAY YOU'RE DOING THIS FOR US!
Quote from: Sam A. Robrin on September 29, 2008, 08:12 PM NHFT
Quote from: Jared on September 29, 2008, 04:58 PM NHFT
turns out i can't go :(. our babysitter just quit.
Can you bring the kids with you? (Maybe wearing little signs reading, WE ARE "THE CHILDREN," AND DON'T TRY TO SAY YOU'RE DOING THIS FOR US!
probably not. theyre 16 months and 4 months :).
Can an admin update the calendar entry (http://nhunderground.com/forum/index.php?topic=15502.0) about this being at 10:00 now, not 12:00? Dave locked the thread so I can't just reply with the updated information.
the "singing revolution" is showing in Mass right now
I guess the kazoo revolution will make an appearance in Concord today.
I have the song from Bridge on the River Kwai in my head.
I can bring a couple of first rate kazooers.
Quote from: Russell Kanning on September 30, 2008, 12:21 AM NHFT
the "singing revolution" is showing in Mass right now
I guess the kazoo revolution will make an appearance in Concord today.
I have the song from Bridge on the River Kwai in my head.
I can bring a couple of first rate kazooers.
Kazooing? Is
that what we're going to be doing tomorrow?? ;D
http://www.nhd.uscourts.gov/
225-1423 for the latest court times
I watched the two latest Ridley Reports on Lauren's and Kat's situation. Maybe it defeats the point, but is there anyone involved with the FSP or NHfree that is a lawyer and willing to represent people who get arrested for CD on a pro bono basis? I just think that having a lawyer that the court recognizes and familiar with court proceedings, filing motions, objections, etc. would make Lauren's and Kat's situation easier.
Don't think they want a lawyer. I know I wouldn't. That would be consenting to the system.
I do realize that. Clearly, using a public defender would defeat the point entirely.
But people are promoting liberty from various positions. Some are even running for political office, which isn't that "consenting to the system" too. Why handicap the movement? Why would having a court-recognize lawyer defending civil disobedience defeat the point?
You're welcome to do that when you do your civil disobedience. I for one do not consent to their system.
QuoteWhy handicap the movement? Why would having a court-recognize lawyer defending civil disobedience defeat the point?
There are some things that lawyers simply can't do. For instance, lawyers can't mention jury nullification and expect to call themselves a lawyer much longer.
There's also the appearance factor. An intelligent woman defending herself from the inanity of a complex and mystical system inspires awe and that's the point.
Civil disobedience is about exposing the government people for the violent thugs they are. More importantly, it's about making other people realize that even simple, common things like a court hearing is actually predecated on violence itself.
I don't mean to sound condescending (I truly don't mean to be) but sometimes it seems that a lot of in-the-system people seem to think that the objective of CD is to "win" rather than to "expose" and "reveal". Lauren asked the courts "Who is the victim?" and when the courts didn't show one, but still tossed her in a cage, it's moving. That's the point of CD, not to get the honorable defendant out of the clink. Kat getting a lawyer and then loosing is just someone who lost a court case in the public view and that's not what one wants to portray.
Didn't Thoreau point out that in a world where freedom is illegal, the right place for him is in jail?
For those who could not attend:
There was a large showing, about 25 or more in the courtroom, and a few who showed up at the original scheduled time.
Kat, clad in orange and shackled, represented herself and called Lauren to the stand. Most stood when Kat and Lauren entered the room, but of course not for the judge. Kat made the case that on she and Lauren were not being disruptive, and only peacefully protesting the funding of torture. She asserted the disruption began when the police showed up.
The "U.S. Government" called no witnesses and deferred sentencing to the judge.
The judge made what sounded like a prepared statement about how the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the torture at Guantanamo, and that civil disobedience is sometimes necessary to oppose these things, but that it wouldn't keep her out of jail. She was given 15 days, including time served, and should be out in about a week.
It was great to meet some of you. It's neat to come to a new place and feel like you know people.
Something strange happened between their "trial" of Lauren just days ago and their "trial" of Kat today.
While (and I was quite happy to hear it) one of the fedwitnesses just days ago testified that in the IRS office that day (and I quote) "Work came to a halt." The fedwitness was talking about the IRS people. So there was at least that temporary victory for Kat and Lauren that day. ;D
However, every single fedwitness at their "trail" of Lauren was in agreement just days ago that there were (in their words) "no members of the public" and "no costumers" in the office that day.
Somehow the fedstory changed today when they were wanting to force Kat back into one of their rotten prisons for a while. See, today in closing, the fedprosecutor argued that because of Kat and Lauren (and I quote) "one customer left."
I guess they just make this stuff up as they go along, and the fedjudge is OK with that.
They almost make me wanna barf!
QuoteThe "U.S. Government" called no witnesses and deferred sentencing to the judge.
One day, I hope to call "US Government" to the stand... I wonder who would testify? I'd love to see who they send to represent, and hear them explain how "US Government" was harmed.
The Pres. loudly proclaimed "You're a brave person Kat."
Smiles from all sides seemed to suggest no one disagreed.
I heard some of the President's statements from across the courtroom today. That is one smart elected official!
he looked quite presidential today
the prosecuter didn't go into as much detail this time, and the judge mentioned different things ... it all lead to men willing to use force ... making Kat sit in a jail for another week.
It was very encouraging to see so many people today. The feds didn't attempt to outnumber us this time. I guess they are not too worried about a violent takeover of the courtroom.
Quote from: Mike Barskey on September 30, 2008, 02:08 PM NHFT
I heard some of the President's statements from across the courtroom today. That is one smart elected official!
He truly is a "representative" of the Underground.
Good to hear it all went well. (Except for the Kat going to jail part, of course.)
I need more sick time wen stuff like this happens. :(
Quote from: Puke on September 30, 2008, 03:03 PM NHFT
Good to hear it all went well. (Except for the Kat going to jail part, of course.)
I need more sick time wen stuff like this happens. :(
same here, i feel for ya
I'm going to third this.
The prosecutor didn't know what a V mask was. :P
He should also consider combing his hair before he comes to work. ;D
He seemed less "weasel" like than the first prosecutor.
Quote from: Puke on September 30, 2008, 03:03 PM NHFT
Good to hear it all went well. (Except for the Kat going to jail part, of course.)
I need more sick time wen stuff like this happens. :(
Someday you'll know when this is more important than making it to work.
The Ridley Report is up:
http://freekeene.com/2008/09/30/slimy-feds-reschedule-kat-kannings-trial-25-activists-turnout-anyway/
Quote from: (V) on September 30, 2008, 04:40 PM NHFT
The prosecutor didn't know what a V mask was. :P
Idiot thought it was a mask with "a V on it." ::) I liked how Lauren described it in such vague terms—simply a "grinning face."
Quote from: (V) on September 30, 2008, 04:40 PM NHFT
He seemed less "weasel" like than the first prosecutor.
Much more bureaucrat than weasel in my opinion.
Quote from: Tom Sawyer on September 30, 2008, 01:56 PM NHFT
The Pres. loudly proclaimed "You're a brave person Kat."
Smiles from all sides seemed to suggest no one disagreed.
Who is the Pres?
Quote from: peacenic on September 30, 2008, 01:31 PM NHFT
For those who could not attend:
There was a large showing, about 25 or more in the courtroom, and a few who showed up at the original scheduled time.
Kat, clad in orange and shackled, represented herself and called Lauren to the stand. Most stood when Kat and Lauren entered the room, but of course not for the judge. Kat made the case that on she and Lauren were not being disruptive, and only peacefully protesting the funding of torture. She asserted the disruption began when the police showed up.
The "U.S. Government" called no witnesses and deferred sentencing to the judge.
The judge made what sounded like a prepared statement about how the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the torture at Guantanamo, and that civil disobedience is sometimes necessary to oppose these things, but that it wouldn't keep her out of jail. She was given 15 days, including time served, and should be out in about a week.
It was great to meet some of you. It's neat to come to a new place and feel like you know people.
Thanks for letting us know. :) I wanted to come but had to take my daughter to Dartmouth this morning. :-\
So, was today's trial the for the original charge? Or the failure to appear charge, for which Kat was arrested? Both? Or did they drop the FTA?
Quote from: Coconut on September 30, 2008, 04:55 PM NHFT
Quote from: Puke on September 30, 2008, 03:03 PM NHFT
Good to hear it all went well. (Except for the Kat going to jail part, of course.)
I need more sick time wen stuff like this happens. :(
Someday you'll know when this is more important than making it to work.
OUCH. :o
Quote from: Jared on September 30, 2008, 08:06 PM NHFT
Quote from: Coconut on September 30, 2008, 04:55 PM NHFT
Quote from: Puke on September 30, 2008, 03:03 PM NHFT
Good to hear it all went well. (Except for the Kat going to jail part, of course.)
I need more sick time wen stuff like this happens. :(
Someday you'll know when this is more important than making it to work.
OUCH. :o
I didn't say that day was today. Nor was it an accusation of laziness. I just believe that we won't have the amount of victory we dream of until it is more important than job security. The time to sacrifice that is not here yet.
I hope to spend more time now getting my business going so that I can hire freestaters and allow them the time to show up at places. My job now, not so good with that.
I'm trying very hard to avoid being in that situation where I have someone who owns a significant portion of my life each day. Not that I don't want to work, but I don't what it to be under terms like that. I don't want to think about how much money it would take to get me thinking living like that is worth it.
Kat and Lauren were admirably composed and fearless
in the court room today. Despite the heavy weight
of the state bearing upon them, and being literally shackled
they kept their wits and humor about them. It was very impressive.
Quote from: raineyrocks on September 30, 2008, 07:23 PM NHFT
Quote from: Tom Sawyer on September 30, 2008, 01:56 PM NHFT
The Pres. loudly proclaimed "You're a brave person Kat."
Smiles from all sides seemed to suggest no one disagreed.
Who is the Pres?
President of the Underground
(http://politicalgraffiti.com/nhfree/images/Pres-Interview.jpg)
From the Ridleo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LoBoozCYRwc)
On the court experience...
"Well, it was a bit scary and things, but you can kind of get used to it..."
It was good to see the big gang there .... especially since many people didn't know when to come.
I had to leave at noon to get back and do some roofing at the farm. I see there was excitement after we left.
Oh no! You just outed the secret identity of the prez., now th fbi, or atf, or homeland stupidity security will prolly make a file of him.
As in there was no fil4e w8774jn4uy97yfbcuih9cyhc until now?
I AM NOT AFRAID!
jhweuofho2yu ri u3ifijfiof 4riupiru4i irjip ripji3 3fuioph34uh
FU?
I quit!
I got 2 letters from Kat.
I will type in some of her responses soon.
From Kat's letter:
This is what I said at the hearing:
"I'm not guilty of working for an organization that imprisons and tortures prisoners around the world.
... that kicks in people's doors in the middle of the night and imprisons people, sometimes even killing them over stupid things rike drugs.
I'm not guilty of hurting anyone, but a lot of people in this room are."
I meant to say something about them tasing Eliane Brown when she was already subdued, but lost it in the adrenaline rush.
Roger: Thanks for calling me brave. Means a lot to me.
AntonLee: Don't worry about not being there. Thanks for sticking up for Lauren online. Write us letters.
PatK: Sorry, no belly bop for you today.
Jeremy: Re:"only way state knows how to deter threats:punish" Jail's the perfect place to see that demonstrated. They tried for about 30 hours to get me to book and the only thing they could really do when I dug my heels in was to use violenc. Their "punishment" didn't work on me.
SolarPoweredBob: I explained all I had done to the classification woman here. She was incredulous that I was even jailed for holding a sign and laughed when I suggested I might be dangerous. She classed me "minimum security rist".
Joe: I don't recall saying much of anything to the IRS woman. Seems like the 5 police were more of a disruption. Re: security at the courthouse being OK ... one of the court security guys saved me from more violence from the Merrimack county jail goons. They stopped beating up on me after he talked to them.
So if anyone wants to visit me, they should send name, birthday, address and phone to with date/time for visit. Might be too complicated for this short of time. Maybe Kira can come with someone as a minor and get in without ID.
It'd be cool if you guys protested outside the jail, since it is so close to you.
Quote from: Russell Kanning on October 03, 2008, 12:32 PM NHFT
From Kat's letter:
Roger: Thanks for calling me brave. Means a lot to me.
It's just the truth Kat. Walking into the Ministry of Love, knowing they would likely arrest you...
Quote"I'm not guilty of working for an organization that imprisons and tortures prisoners around the world.
... that kicks in people's doors in the middle of the night and imprisons people, sometimes even killing them over stupid things rike drugs.
I'm not guilty of hurting anyone, but a lot of people in this room are."
One of the most moving moments I have ever experienced...
One, soft spoken, peaceful. outnumbered woman against a Goliath...
Thanks Kat. 8)
Russell called in a Porc 411
Saying that they had been threatened with arrest for holding signs outside the jail.
Ridiculous. How can people say we don't live in a police state? :angry4:
Wonder if they had a video camera...
Just got another Porc 411 from Mike and Russell
The blue light gang followed their vehicle all the way to the interstate.
I remember Judge Muirhead saying that we could protest beside the road... apparently he was wrong. We don't have that freedom.
Maybe the message has come to New Hampshire from the Washington, DC thugs. "Deter these people!"
Maybe the fedfolk operating here in NH not only have no idea about their own US Constitution - which they swore to uphold - but, perhaps they don't really even care about our little New Hampshire Bill of Rights & Constitution.
Maybe these fedpeople need to get [the F...] out of here.
Maybe our brothers and sisters in our local, county, and state police departments will actually want [i.e. have the courage] to defend their/our rights here in NH.
Maybe those fedthugs should get out of here - now.
I just spoke with Reno and he mentioned that the inmates could hear the protest for Kat. :D
This not only is good for Kat but for many others locked up at Merrimack.
FREE ALL VICTIMLESS PRISONERS!!!
Thank you Kat and Lauren for your continued efforts and courage.
Quote from: lastlady on October 05, 2008, 12:46 PM NHFTI just spoke with Reno and he mentioned that the inmates could hear the protest for Kat. :D
This not only is good for Kat but for many others locked up at Merrimack.
FREE ALL VICTIMLESS PRISONERS!!!
Thank you so much for this update!
Russell explained things in a bit more detail tonight at Vendetta and it was simply appalling. Scary even. There is simply to justification whatsoever for the actions the police took against them; much less a remotely rational one.
Protest outside the prison.
These are the signs that were so threating to the cop that we had to leave.
Quote from: dalebert on October 05, 2008, 08:55 PM NHFT
Russell explained things in a bit more detail tonight at Vendetta and it was simply appalling. Scary even. There is simply to justification whatsoever for the actions the police took against them; much less a remotely rational one.
Could you expound on this please.
Which police department did this?
Quote from: dalebert on October 05, 2008, 08:55 PM NHFT
Russell explained things in a bit more detail tonight at Vendetta and it was simply appalling. Scary even. There is simply to justification whatsoever for the actions the police took against them; much less a remotely rational one.
Is a
larger protest planned for some upcoming date?
Quote from: Pat K on October 05, 2008, 09:15 PM NHFT
Could you expound on this please.
Essentially the cop threatened to arrest on the charge of disorderly conduct and when Russell asked what was the disorderly conduct the cop just pointed at the signs. Russell could get no further clarification from him. In other words, free speech is disorderly conduct. *shrug*
For people who weren't at Vendetta's:
When Mike, Russell and I got to the jail we stood by the sign by the high way for a while with signs. I made a sign that said 'Free My Mother'. After a while Russell and I went down to the jail. We went in and asked if Kat had filled out the paper work so I could visit her. The lady at the desk was friendly and told us she hadn't got the paper work yet. While we were in there some one in the building called asking about us. Then we walked up the hill that was in front of the jail. With the high way to our left and the jail below on our right we started to walk. We saw some prisoner waving from the widows. I don't know if any on them were Kat but we were petty sure that it was the women's part of the jail. It is alway nice to have a nice welcome from the prisoner. After we stood there a while the cop came driving up. He ask what we were up to and then ask for ID. He threatened us arrest for trespassing on government propity. Russell asked if we went on the other side of the railing we could stay and the cop said if you do that I would have to arrest you for disorderly conduct. So we decided to leave. The cop follow us all the way out of town.
Funny we got a much warmer welcome from the prisoners than that cop. Who is suppose to the bad guys, the cops or prisoner who did some wrong? From that experence it seems that the cops are more the bad guys then the people in the jail. The government isn't here to protect us they are here to control us.
Quote from: J'raxis 270145 on October 06, 2008, 12:55 AM NHFT
Quote from: dalebert on October 05, 2008, 08:55 PM NHFT
Russell explained things in a bit more detail tonight at Vendetta and it was simply appalling. Scary even. There is simply to justification whatsoever for the actions the police took against them; much less a remotely rational one.
Is a larger protest planned for some upcoming date?
I am leaving that up to Kira or others.
I am going back to the jail and hold signs on Wednesday at say around 3:00 p.m. If that time doesn't work for you tell me and I can arrange a time better for you. Anyone who would like to join me are more then welcome to. The more people we have the more the cops get worried about us being there. If anyone has a video camera that would be great to have there to make the cops uncomfortable.
By the way, what jail is this at?
Quote from: J'raxis 270145 on October 06, 2008, 01:42 PM NHFT
By the way, what jail is this at?
Merrimack County Jail in Boscawen.
10/2, prisoner found dead:
http://www.wmur.com/news/17607114/detail.html
Anyone from Keene going?
dose anyone need directions to Kat's jail? I don't know the way but if you ask Russell he will tell you.
I-93 Exit 17 Turn right at end of exit.
Route 4 West.
At fork take right fork Route 3 North.
Thanks for the report Kira.
I guess the Boscawen police don't even try to
hide the fact that their thugs.
Quote from: Pat McCotter on October 06, 2008, 04:31 PM NHFT
I-93 Exit 17 Turn right at end of exit.
Route 4 West.
At fork take right fork Route 3 North.
I just use The Google (http://maps.google.com/maps?q=326+Daniel+Webster+Hwy,+Boscawen,+New+Hampshire+03303&ie=UTF8&ll=43.352713,-71.644574&spn=0.317548,0.563049&z=11). ;D
FREE KAT KANNING!!!!
It is a nice new jail with a beautiful lobby and receptionist .... with thugs that sometimes show up outside. You guys are going to love it.
Quote from: Tom Sawyer on October 01, 2008, 04:49 AM NHFT
Quote from: raineyrocks on September 30, 2008, 07:23 PM NHFT
Quote from: Tom Sawyer on September 30, 2008, 01:56 PM NHFT
The Pres. loudly proclaimed "You're a brave person Kat."
Smiles from all sides seemed to suggest no one disagreed.
Who is the Pres?
President of the Underground
(http://politicalgraffiti.com/nhfree/images/Pres-Interview.jpg)
From the Ridleo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LoBoozCYRwc)
On the court experience...
"Well, it was a bit scary and things, but you can kind of get used to it..."
He is so cute and smart! :)
The honorable president singlehandedly dismantled the ominous presence of the feds.
;D
Quote from: dalebert on October 07, 2008, 07:38 AM NHFT
The honorable president singlehandedly dismantled the ominous presence of the feds.
;D
Awesome! ;D
Quote from: Russell Kanning on October 07, 2008, 05:42 AM NHFT
It is a nice new jail with a beautiful lobby and receptionist .... with thugs that sometimes show up outside. You guys are going to love it.
I don't criticize the State for building new prisons--someday soon we'll be needing them for all the politicians and bureaucrats . . .
Quote from: Sam A. Robrin on October 07, 2008, 08:44 AM NHFTQuote from: Russell Kanning on October 07, 2008, 05:42 AM NHFTIt is a nice new jail with a beautiful lobby and receptionist .... with thugs that sometimes show up outside. You guys are going to love it.
I don't criticize the State for building new prisons--someday soon we'll be needing them for all the politicians and bureaucrats . . .
Is
that why they made it so nice?
Joe
Jim and I are planning to be outside Boscawen tomorrow with a camera. We'd like be there in the morning. 9AM anyone?
Quote from: TackleTheWorld on October 07, 2008, 12:56 PM NHFT
Jim and I are planning to be outside Boscawen tomorrow with a camera. We'd like be there in the morning. 9AM anyone?
Has the time been changed?
Quote from: Radical_Teen on October 06, 2008, 01:36 PM NHFT
I am going back to the jail and hold signs on Wednesday at say around 3:00 p.m. If that time doesn't work for you tell me and I can arrange a time better for you. Anyone who would like to join me are more then welcome to. The more people we have the more the cops get worried about us being there. If anyone has a video camera that would be great to have there to make the cops uncomfortable.
NEWS FLASH
Wanda at the US marshalls office says Kat will be released tomorrow!!!
:icon_cheers: :icon_cheers: :icon_cheers:
Excellent! Although it's tough to trust what the US Marshalls say. Did they say what time?
Can I ride along? I'll contribute gas money.
Kira and Terri are discussing things
Quote from: TackleTheWorld on October 07, 2008, 12:56 PM NHFT
Jim and I are planning to be outside Boscawen tomorrow with a camera. We'd like be there in the morning. 9AM anyone?
Sure we could change the time to 9. By the way nice to see you back on the form again Lauren. :boogie:
Quote from: dalebert on October 07, 2008, 03:57 PM NHFT
Can I ride along? I'll contribute gas money.
Sure. Ready at 7:30 AM?
There's room for more. Anyone else from Keene want to get up early?
I don't have to be at work until 11:00 tomorrow, so I'll be there.
15 days in the slammer for political dissidence? What is this, CHINA? :soapbox:
Quote from: TackleTheWorld on October 07, 2008, 05:40 PM NHFT
Quote from: dalebert on October 07, 2008, 03:57 PM NHFT
Can I ride along? I'll contribute gas money.
Sure. Ready at 7:30 AM?
There's room for more. Anyone else from Keene want to get up early?
Sorry, going to breakfast with the Couch Enforcer.
Quote from: TackleTheWorld on October 07, 2008, 05:40 PM NHFT
Sure. Ready at 7:30 AM?
There's room for more. Anyone else from Keene want to get up early?
I can make a point to be ready. Do you go through Keene or should I go to your place?
I'll be bringing a camcorder tomorrow.
I just purchased these massive heavy duty white vinyl tarps that are 14x48 feet.
Could anyone bring a few spray paint cans so we can put together an interesting banner for the viewing public?
Quote from: dalebert on October 07, 2008, 08:01 PM NHFT
Quote from: TackleTheWorld on October 07, 2008, 05:40 PM NHFT
Sure. Ready at 7:30 AM?
There's room for more. Anyone else from Keene want to get up early?
I can make a point to be ready. Do you go through Keene or should I go to your place?
We will pick you up.
Which street do you live on?
Quote from: Rebel Rob on October 07, 2008, 08:19 PM NHFT
I just purchased these massive heavy duty white vinyl tarps that are 14x48 feet.
Could anyone bring a few spray paint cans so we can put together an interesting banner for the viewing public?
I'd suggest spray painting your tarp *before* you get there. Somehow, I doubt the cops will look kindly on using the prison parking lot for that project. :icon_pirat: And trying to do it on the side of the highway won't be safe, or dry.
there is a lot of grassy area ... it also has a nice view
Quote from: Friday on October 07, 2008, 08:44 PM NHFT
I'd suggest spray painting your tarp *before* you get there. Somehow, I doubt the cops will look kindly on using the prison parking lot for that project. :icon_pirat: And trying to do it on the side of the highway won't be safe, or dry.
You're probably right Friday, but it sure would be a kick if we could pull it off. I'll bring it anyway just in case... along with a bucket of green paint we've got here.
I wished I had the time and supplies to do it today, but no luck.
Boscawen Police Department
Chief of Police
Sean Sweeney
116 North Main Street
Boscawen, New Hampshire 03303
(603)753-9123
I'd be an AIYH groupie
Quote from: Tom Sawyer on October 07, 2008, 11:53 PM NHFT
Boscawen Police Department
Chief of Police
Sean Sweeney
116 North Main Street
Boscawen, New Hampshire 03303
(603)753-9123
Is this the address for the protest this morning? Or will we be at the jail, which I think is at 326 Daniel Webster Highway, Boscawen?
Quote from: Mike Barskey on October 08, 2008, 06:20 AM NHFT
Quote from: Tom Sawyer on October 07, 2008, 11:53 PM NHFT
Boscawen Police Department
Chief of Police
Sean Sweeney
116 North Main Street
Boscawen, New Hampshire 03303
(603)753-9123
Is this the address for the protest this morning? Or will we be at the jail, which I think is at 326 Daniel Webster Highway, Boscawen?
no one is going to the police station ... they will go to the jail
hopefully no one will come from the police station ... and haul people back with them :)
K. thanks.
Quote from: Tom Sawyer on October 07, 2008, 11:53 PM NHFT
Boscawen Police Department
Chief of Police
Sean Sweeney
116 North Main Street
Boscawen, New Hampshire 03303
(603)753-9123
For those of us that can't physically make it out to the event... I plan to call and ask them 'why they stomp on peaceful folks in that town?'
they thought it was "disorderly" with my 2x3 sign ... wait til they see a big one
maybe you can walk in very orderly rows :)
Quote from: Russell Kanning on October 08, 2008, 07:37 AM NHFT
they thought it was "disorderly" with my 2x3 sign ... wait til they see a big one
maybe you can walk in very orderly rows :)
:lockstep:
Kat is free!!!!! Party :party-smiley-020:
That is wonderful news! YEAH!!! :D
Woo Hoo. :)
Kat escaped, bruised but unbroken!! :icon_cheers:
I wish someone had got it on video when Lauren came bounding down the grassy hill with her arms spread wide to hug Kat. It was, like, the opening credits of Little House on the Prairie. :flower: :butterfly:
Hi all,
It's good to be out :) Thank you very much for the letters (Sam A Robrin, David, Ridley, Mike Barsky, Kelly McG.) It make it much easier to bear being in there. Thanks all for showing up and demonstrating at Lauren and I's court appearances, also.
I'm working on 2 or 3 stories for the newspaper that should explain all that happened. Will post when I'm done.
The world is so beautiful! Hugs to everyone.
Kat
"Freedom's just another word for nothing left to lose..."
Welcome back. Looking forward to hearing about your experience.
I'll take all the pics and vid u guys can upload
welcome back kat!
Welcome back Kat! :D
Here's what I have so far. I wrote most of this while sitting in jail. It needs more info about what happened at Lauren's trial and how she was treated in jail. I'm also working on all my notes for an article about NH Prisons. I interviewed guards and prisoners while I was in there (though maybe the guards didn't know they were being interviewed - when I asked for a formal interview, they said they couldn't talk to the press and said I'd have to put in a request for a formal interview with the supervisor. That request was ignored.) I'll also incorporate info from that Valley St. Jail website - the ladies in prison also had horror stories about that jail.
One of the guards was just back from Iraq and had interesting things to say, but I don't think it fits in with either of these articles, so maybe a small article about that forthcoming also.
Another guard mentioned that he thought the "economic collapse" was engineered for Bush to bring in marshal law. I found it strange he didn't see his part in that police state.
Is it Right to Work for the Federal Government?
By Kat Kanning
The October edition of the New Hampshire Free Press is late, since the feds decided to jail me for 15 days. September 19th, my friend and fellow activist Lauren Canario was told that she could return to the Federal Courthouse in Concord to finally retrieve the video camera the feds stole from her a year earlier. Repeated attempts to retrieve her property had only resulted in repeated games of runaround. For this trip, Lauren had assurances from Federal Marshal Gary DiMartino that she would indeed get her camera back this time.
When Lauren arrived at the courthouse, no one was at the security gate, so she just walked in, setting off the metal detector. For this, she was ticketed for disorderly conduct. She was also arrested. Back in April 2007, Lauren and I were arrested while demonstrating inside the Keene IRS office. Freestater Dave Ridley was imprisoned by the feds at that time for handing out a leaflet in the Nashua IRS office. To protest his imprisonment and the feds in general, we held a demonstration in the Keene IRS office. I sat quietly holding a sign that said "Taxes pay for torture" and Lauren stood silently wearing a "V" mask (that's from the movie, "V for Vendetta" for clueless fed readers). Lauren and I were arrested, ticketed for disorderly conduct and failure to obey, and released that same day.
A year and a half later, Lauren was arrested in the Federal Courthouse since she had not paid the $250 fines from the disorderly conduct and disobeying charges, nor had she shown up for court voluntarily. She was arraigned that day and held for trial on September 24th. Her husband was given her video camera, but he considered exchanging his wife for the camera to be a bad deal.
On the 24th, a crowd of 28 supporters protested Lauren's imprisonment outside the Federal Courthouse. I attended the protest, but when I went inside for the trial, I was also arrested. Federal Marshals bodily tore me away from my daughter and dragged me away.
At Lauren's trial, she questioned one of the ICE/Homeland Security officers who arrested her in 2007, asking him about the Constitution. He seemed unfamiliar with it and mixed up the First and Second Amendments. During the trial, Lauren put up a question for all to see, "Where is the victim?" The prosecutor argued for the maximum sentence of 30 days, not for any actual harm that Lauren had done, but to deter the whole NH Underground which, he said, had been causing them "consternation". She was sentenced to 15 days.
One supporter commented on Lauren's trial, "They did not allow Lauren to confer with anyone for advice. She was without her glasses, making it difficult to see what was being displayed on the monitors. They did not have even a pencil for her to write notes regarding her case, until I asked her if she had be given one. She had her black gloved guard seated right beside her, an intimidating presence that would preclude her from any privacy in the writing of information regarding the trial. The judge made no reference to any of her defense. It was clear that he was ready to find her guilty at her arraignment. The judge, in his closing statement referred to matters not even connected with the case. He was clearly chastising her for her activism and beliefs."
I was arraigned after Lauren's trial. When they asked for my plea, I told them:
I'm not guilty of working for an organization that tortures prisoners around the world.
I'm not guilty of working for an organization that bombs innocent people.
I'm not guilty of working for an organization that kicks down people's doors in the middle of the night, arresting or killing them over stupid things like drugs.
I'm not guilty of hurting anyone.
I'm not guilty, but a lot of people in this room are.
They set my trial for September 30th and ordered me held until trial.
On the way to the jail, the handcuffs slipped off me, but no one seemed to notice. As soon as I arrived at Merrimack County Jail, a woman named Tucker started barking orders at me. When I didn't comply, she called in Cpl. Saucier and they threw me down to the cement floor. One of the federal marshals who transported me explained I was a nonviolent protester and they stopped beating up on me. Later, Tucker went around chanting "I'm no man, but I've got big balls." (You couldn't begin to make this stuff up.)
They held me in the booking area for about 35 hours when I refused to comply with their booking procedures. They refused to give me a bible in the booking area when I requested one. The Corporal and Tucker waited until late in the evening when there were no witnesses in the booking area and came to me with about 5 officers in all and a video camera and basically said they were beat me if I didn't book in, so I did for the most part. I refused to sign their paperwork and wouldn't give them much information, but otherwise did what they wanted.
I was surprised on the 29th to be called to trial - a day early. My suspicion was the day was changed to avoid more protests. ICE testified honestly about what happened, with the exception that Commander Therrien claimed there was a "customer" in the IRS office at the start of demonstration, and neither Lauren nor I remember one being there. On cross examination, I asked Commander Therrien to think back 10, 20 years about countries we'd hear about where they tortured their prisoners. He failed to see the similarity between those 3rd world dictatorships and the one we currently live under. He said that he'd been in Special Forces in the military, trained to give and receive "harsh interrogation" and that he'd been waterboarded. When asked if he considered waterboarding torture, he gave the evasive reply, "Well, I didn't exactly like it at the time."
I called Lauren to the witness stand, which caused the trial to be continued the next day while they brought Lauren in from the Strafford County Jail. I was able to warn people about the new trial date/time, so 31 people showed up to protest our imprisonment and to attend the second half of the trial.
I asked Lauren how long our protests outside the IRS office usually lasted, and she said that it was anywhere from 15 minutes to 1 hour. When asked how long we would have likely stayed in the IRS office if we hadn't been arrested she thought it would have been about an hour. (It was about 1 ¼ to 1 ½ hours into the demonstration when I was finally led out of the office.) I then asked how many officers were involved in our arrest, and Lauren said there were 5. She testified that they occupied the middle of the room, while Lauren and I were on the edges, out of the way. When asked which caused the greater disturbance, 5 officers in the middle of the room, going in and out, making phone calls, or two women standing/sitting silently, she said the officers caused the greater disturbance. I also asked her about her military experience and whether she was familiar with the Geneva Conventions. She was only somewhat familiar with the Conventions but stated that she believed torturing prisoners violated those conventions.
Not long before Lauren's arrest on September 19th, Dave Ridley released a "ridleo", an internet news video on ridleyreport.com about the 2007 arrest of Lauren and I, saying that the federales had apparently been backed down by Lauren and I. Dave worried the video would prompt an arrest, but we told him to go ahead with the report. That, combined with the prosecutor in Lauren's trial stating that he wished to punish the whole NH Underground, made me think that the arrests at that time were more politically motivated than being based on any actual harm caused. I asked to question Federal Marshal Gary DiMartino on the stand, but Judge Muirhead would not allow me to call him .
In closing I said that Lauren and I would have been out of that IRS office in less time and with far less disturbance if we'd been allowed to continue our demonstration. I explained how the officers themselves caused the greatest disturbance. I also said that any disturbance we might have caused was overshadowed by the need to resist the grave crimes the government has committed in places like Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The judge sentenced me to 15 days also.
After the trial, I got to talk to Lauren for a while. She had been held in isolation since the 19th. This was for her refusal to cooperate in her own imprisonment. They were refusing to give her any of the mail that had been sent to her. She eventually was given one of her husband's letters. The others were never given to her, even upon her release. She was held an extra two days for her noncooperation, so wasn't released until October 6th.
As I was leaving the Federal Courthouse, I saw my friends protesting on the street corner. Two of them with video cameras came up to the van I was in, which upset the County Sheriff greatly. He jumped out of the van, which was stopped at a traffic light, and yelled at them to get away from the van. Apparently he thought they were trying to release me with their cameras.
The issues this whole series of events brought up, from Dave Ridley's arrest to the imprisonment of Lauren and I, were numerous. Do we have the right to peaceably seek redress of grievances, as it says in the Constitution? Should you work for or support a government that tortures its prisoners? Is it right for the government to steal people's money through taxation and use it for war and torture? I say 'no' to these questions, and I'm glad that there are people like Lauren Canario and Dave Ridley who are willing to stand up to resist these abuses.
Lauren's husband, Jim Johnson asks, "One man drives the train... another man loads the car.
And another man unloads the train and another man locks a door.
Another man stands by a valve which leads to another man who fills a tank.
And another man is ordered by anther man to order the other man to open a valve.
And another man carries bodies to a grave that another man has dug and no man can be blamed.
So where is Mike Therrien? He is the man who collects gypsies who ride the train.
But Mike is different from the other men.
Mike gets to choose who he collects... he has sworn an oath to a set of words that he does not understand... and depends on politicians to tell him what to do... he is obedient to the state.
Mike could choose to not arrest gypsies. But, he has no moral code of his own... he serves the state, leaving politicians to bear the burden of his morality... And in what place could morality be better lost?"
Excellent article, Kat.
For clarity, the first officer Lauren asked about the first amendment (she recited some of it verbatim or darn close to it) and he claimed he couldn't recall. He sounded sincere from the confused look on his face.
The second officer, the woman, said she thought that might be the second amendment and also had a really confused/distressed look on her face.
It's wonderfully written, I am glad you weren't beaten up too badly. Thank you for your courage. I'm going to print this out and send it to Reno.
Please post when the final article is complete, so I can read it on-air. :icon_pirat:
Welcome back to the non-caged world, Kat! :)
Quote from: Caleb on October 08, 2008, 08:54 PM NHFT
Welcome back to the non-caged world, Kat! :)
You mean the less-obviously-caged world. Or, the more comfy prison.
No, I meant the non-caged world.
Some people might be in a comfy prison out here. Kat is free.
Quote from: Caleb on October 08, 2008, 09:57 PM NHFT
No, I meant the non-caged world.
Some people might be in a comfy prison out here. Kat is free.
We may be free in our minds, but leaving the prison yard can be a trick without bowing to the state. :P Getting into Canada is pretty easy, but the prison guards there want papers too.
It wasn't my intent to be a downer, so I'll leave this potential thread derailing discussion at this point.
Incidentally, purchased where it was, I also had the option of a postcard depicting an armed and scowling Geronimo. The greeting "Endeavor to persevere" popped immediately into my head . . . Then I realized the reactrion that was likely to get, and settled for something a little less incendiary!
Quote from: Kat Kanning on October 08, 2008, 02:24 PM NHFT
"Freedom's just another word for nothing left to lose..."
Can you explain that line to me? I've never been able to figure it out, and even rewrote the song myself to bring it more into my own realm of understanding. Am I missing something, or was Kris Kristofferson?
Nice article Kat. Your recent trial and some of my drivel on the first amendment etc. may get a mention in the "other" Grafton paper in an article in the Nov. issue too. A sincere thank you to you and Lauren for having the courage to do what you did. I learned alot by watching the two trials...However, contrary to the belief of certain Federal Prosecutors I am not inspired to commit dangerous acts by your non violent approach...I know it's hard to believe. ;D
Quote from: Sam A. Robrin on October 08, 2008, 10:30 PM NHFT
Can you explain that line to me? I've never been able to figure it out, and even rewrote the song myself to bring it more into my own realm of understanding. Am I missing something, or was Kris Kristofferson?
Speaking of that song, does anyone else always think this when they hear it:
"Is that a harpoon in your dirty red bandana, or are you just happy to see me."
;D
;D Hey Kat glad your out.
Quote from: Sam A. Robrin on October 08, 2008, 10:30 PM NHFT
Incidentally, purchased where it was, I also had the option of a postcard depicting an armed and scowling Geronimo. The greeting "Endeavor to persevere" popped immediately into my head . . . Then I realized the reactrion that was likely to get, and settled for something a little less incendiary!
Quote from: Kat Kanning on October 08, 2008, 02:24 PM NHFT
"Freedom's just another word for nothing left to lose..."
Can you explain that line to me? I've never been able to figure it out, and even rewrote the song myself to bring it more into my own realm of understanding. Am I missing something, or was Kris Kristofferson?
The postcard was rather nostalgic for me :) My family is all from Oklahoma.
Freedom's just another word for nothing left to lose: having nothing left that they can take from you feels freeing!
Quote from: Caleb on October 08, 2008, 10:39 PM NHFT
Quote from: Sam A. Robrin on October 08, 2008, 10:30 PM NHFT
Can you explain that line to me? I've never been able to figure it out, and even rewrote the song myself to bring it more into my own realm of understanding. Am I missing something, or was Kris Kristofferson?
Speaking of that song, does anyone else always think this when they hear it:
"Is that a harpoon in your dirty red bandana, or are you just happy to see me."
;D
No, that's just you. Our commie pervert. ;D
I'm done with the article now, Ian.
Quote from: Free libertarian on October 08, 2008, 10:32 PM NHFT
contrary to the belief of certain Federal Prosecutors I am not inspired to commit dangerous acts by your non violent approach...
Neither am I. Their violent approach, on the other hand . . .
Quote from: Kat Kanning on October 09, 2008, 02:33 AM NHFT
The postcard was rather nostalgic for me :) My family is all from Oklahoma.
Have we met? I've been active (off and on, mostly the former . . .) around here since 1976.
Quote from: Kat Kanning on October 09, 2008, 02:33 AM NHFT
Freedom's just another word for nothing left to lose: having nothing left that they can take from you feels freeing!
As long as you have your life, they have something they can take. And beyond that, there's family . . .
I don't think we've met.
Great article, Kat. It explains what happened in clear, direct language, so the reader has less opportunity in their mind to excuse the behavior of the government thugs. A read will be less likely to assume "Well, Kat must have done [i[something[/i] to deserve to be thrown to the ground, otherwise cops wouldn't be violent with her," since you explained the happenings up to that point.
And the finale is fantastic, starting with Jim's poem. The tone of the article changes and you address the reader directly, and even ask them questions - the reader is essentially put into a position where they can't help but think about what they've just read.
Again: welcome out. I look forward to seeing you Saturday.
Kat,
That is an excellent article. When you do print it can I have extra copies to distribute up this way? I'm going to try my best to make it Saturday but I don't know if you'll have copies by then, can you let me know?
Thanks Kat and I don't want to forget this for you and Lauren: :hug: :hug: :hug:
the box in concord will have lots of papers in it ... when she finishes it
Quote from: Kat Kanning on October 09, 2008, 07:45 AM NHFT
I'm done with the article now, Ian.
Is it on the NHFree Press site yet? I don't see it. I'd like to point listeners there when we talk about it.
Quote from: Russell Kanning on October 09, 2008, 08:28 AM NHFT
the box in concord will have lots of papers in it ... when she finishes it
Huh?
I'm shooting for having the October edition of the NH Free Press in hand next Friday. We've been putting extra papers in our box outside the statehouse in Concord for people to pick up and distribute. I don't know why Russell was telling you about this though.
Ian: yes.
Quote from: Kat Kanning on October 09, 2008, 10:53 AM NHFT
I'm shooting for having the October edition of the NH Free Press in hand next Friday. We've been putting extra papers in our box outside the statehouse in Concord for people to pick up and distribute. I don't know why Russell was telling you about this though.
Ian: yes.
Thanks Kat! :D
Quote from: Kat Kanning on October 08, 2008, 02:24 PM NHFT
Hi all,
It's good to be out :) Thank you very much for the letters (Sam A Robrin, David, Ridley, Mike Barsky, Kelly McG.) It make it much easier to bear being in there. Thanks all for showing up and demonstrating at Lauren and I's court appearances, also.
I'm working on 2 or 3 stories for the newspaper that should explain all that happened. Will post when I'm done.
The world is so beautiful! Hugs to everyone.
Kat
"Freedom's just another word for nothing left to lose..."
Welcome back!
I'd've been there yesterday but I didn't find out you'd been released until the afternoon... :duh: :(
Quote from: J'raxis 270145 on October 09, 2008, 01:39 PM NHFT
I'd've been there yesterday but I didn't find out you'd been released until the afternoon... :duh: :(
I would have been there, too, if I wasn't such an idiot. Actually, I
was there, kind of. Well,
near there. I spent an hour looking for that prison! I had 2 address from Google, live google maps on my phone, and directions from Lauren and Dale who were
at the prison, and I still couldn't find it!
Anyway, you're out. And I
do know how to find the Hoyt farm. :)
Quote from: Mike Barskey on October 09, 2008, 01:49 PM NHFT
Quote from: J'raxis 270145 on October 09, 2008, 01:39 PM NHFT
I'd've been there yesterday but I didn't find out you'd been released until the afternoon... :duh: :(
I would have been there, too, if I wasn't such an idiot. Actually, I was there, kind of. Well, near there. I spent an hour looking for that prison! I had 2 address from Google, live google maps on my phone, and directions from Lauren and Dale who were at the prison, and I still couldn't find it!
Was the map I posted accurate? I've driven past it and it's not that hard to miss (I thought...?) if you just keep going north up Route 3.
Thanks for all the 'welcomes' :) And thanks for the especially nice letter, Mike Barsky.
Quote from: J'raxis 270145 on October 09, 2008, 02:11 PM NHFT
Was the map I posted accurate? I've driven past it and it's not that hard to miss (I thought...?) if you just keep going north up Route 3.
I didn't see that you had posted a google map, but I did have the address 326 Daniel Webster Highway. There is a "326 Route 3" in Boscawen, but apparently Route 3 is not called the Daniel Webster Highway until further north. Silly me for thinking the name of a road would extend to the length of that road. :(
On one my my back-and-forth jaunts along that stretch of highway, I made it to about 1/2 shy of that location before thinking "this doesn't look right" and turning around. Sigh.
Well, I'll know for next time, which hopefully never comes.
Quote from: Kat Kanning on October 09, 2008, 02:15 PM NHFT
Thanks for all the 'welcomes' :) And thanks for the especially nice letter, Mike Barsky.
You're welcome!
Welcome Home Kat.
Thank you .
We sure missed ya.
We were sad ... now happy again.
Quote from: Mike Barskey on October 09, 2008, 02:49 PM NHFT
I didn't see that you had posted a google map, but I did have the address 326 Daniel Webster Highway. There is a "326 Route 3" in Boscawen, but apparently Route 3 is not called the Daniel Webster Highway until further north. Silly me for thinking the name of a road would extend to the length of that road. :(
It does. All the way from Nashua to the Canadian border. Though near the center of a town it may be called something else.
Mike, many New Hampshire roads have multiple names and are minimally signed, if at all. Don't feel bad; I have got lost approximately 1,714 times since moving here from California. You'll never beat my record. :P
I followed Pat McCotter's posted directions, then drove until I saw Facilitator, who is significantly larger than a road sign. :icon_pirat:
Thanks. It's actually the first time I got lost here, but it was a doozie.
Npt all who wander are lost.
Quote from: Friday on October 09, 2008, 06:14 PM NHFT
...I saw Facilitator, who is significantly larger than a road sign. :icon_pirat:
Poor Jim...first a wife, now bigger than a roadsign. :o
Quote from: Friday on October 09, 2008, 06:14 PM NHFT
Mike, many New Hampshire roads have multiple names and are minimally signed, if at all. Don't feel bad; I have got lost approximately 1,714 times since moving here from California. You'll never beat my record. :P
I followed Pat McCotter's posted directions, then drove until I saw Facilitator, who is significantly larger than a road sign. :icon_pirat:
One trick I use is to always remember which quadrant of the state I'm in, with the axes being I-93 and Route 101. Both of these roads extend all the way to the edge of the state, and Manchester is right at the origin. Thus, if I ever get lost, I always know that if I head in a specific cardinal direction, I'll hit one of these major routes, which will then take me back to Manchester.
so if you are in hobbiton and lost ... what happens if you head south? ... you would be getting "unlost" for 2 hours ;)
you could also just follow all the roads heading southeast and eventually end up in boston and then can head home from there :)
when i am lost ... I ask myself "what would shorty do?" and it works every time.
Shorty would buy a NH Atlas from Lloyd. $15.00, $5.00 of which goes to the Liberty Scholarship Fund.
Quote from: Lloyd Danforth on October 10, 2008, 05:55 AM NHFT
Shorty would buy a NH Atlas from Lloyd. $15.00, $5.00 of which goes to the Liberty Scholarship Fund.
IIRC, that same atlas would cost you $20 at the store, so Lloyd has the best deal around.
DoL speaks true.
The Prison article is up now.
http://www.newhampshirefreepress.com/NHFreePress/?q=node/242
New Hampshire Prison Conditions
By Kat Kanning
Being stuck in jail for two weeks, I thought I might as well report on prison conditions in NH from the inside. Merrimack County Jail officials ignored my request for an interview, so I mostly have information from prisoners.
Approximately 80% of the people imprisoned in Merrimack County jail are there because of drug (I'm including alcohol in this) problems. Official reasons for arrest are varied – from driving under the influence, to theft, to violence, but all stemming from the drug problem. The jail offers AA meetings and drug counseling, but recidivism rates remain extremely high. I spoke with one young woman (18) who referred to herself as a "junkie". Her story and demeanor made it clear that she would do most anything to get her drugs. I asked her what her life would be like if drugs were legal and she could go to the local pharmacy and pick up her drugs. The idea appeared surprising to her, but on reflection, she said she wouldn't be having to sneak around doing illegal acts to get her fix.
In countries where drugs have been decriminalized, and drug addiction treated as a health problem rather than a crime, the crime rate has dropped significantly. According to the group, Law Enforcement Against Prohibition (www.leap.cc), "There is a strong argument that prohibition has caused or created many of the problems associated with the use or misuse of drugs. One option for the future would be to regulate drugs differently, through either over-the-counter sales, licensed sales or doctor's prescription."
I talked to various women imprisoned at Merrimack County Jail about violence against prisoners in the jail. From what they said, and from what I saw, physical violence done by guards (such as when the guards threw me to the cement) was not common. Rape by guards in MCDOC was not common, according to the women, but in Manchester's Valley Street Jail it happened quite a bit. I was surprised on being released to have an email from a group wishing to expose the prisoner abuse in Valley Street Jail (HCDOC). The group's website is http://www.valleystreetjail.com/. Here are some of the abuses discussed on the site:
DENIED ACCESS TO MEDICAL & DENTAL TREATMENT: Request to see the nurse, doctors and dentist are almost always denied. No accessible Grievance System in place. Medical treatment in HCDOC is a privilege not a right. On one occasion a female inmate slipped and fell in the shower, broke her wrist and was given ice and was told to calm down, to this day she still has not been treated. This is a normal occurrence at HCDOC. If you complain about injuries, pain etc... most of the time you are punished in one way or another like being locked down, loss of privileges (not that you have many to begin with) or put into administrative segregation.
DENIED ACCESS TO ALL MEDICATIONS: All inmates who were previously taking life sustaining medications are almost always denied access to their much needed medications especially psychiatric drugs for bi-polar, depression, and schizophrenic disorders and most other physical diagnosis's such as thyroid diseases, AIDS, and many more. If you are lucky enough to see medical (it is a privilege) you may get Tylenol at best.
DENIAL OF GRIEVANCE FORMS AND/OR APPEALS: This facility thinks the written Grievance & Appeal System is a Privilege not a right. Therefore Grievance forms are VERY hard to obtain and many times are never submitted, lost or ripped up in front of the inmate. Again a violation of Federal Law and the inmates Due Process Rights as this is the only avenue the inmates have to the court system. With the Inmate reform Act of 1995 – this makes civil rights violations very hard to litigate and prove leaving the inmate helpless and at the total mercy of the guards.
TORTURE: See Doris Sanabria V. Hillsborough County Department of Corrections – Doris is former HCDOC Correctional Officer that reported the abuse and torture of a female inmate. This case is still pending. How long will this be allowed to go on. (see attached court filings). This is not an isolated case as there have been many others (see attached beaten death). Just this week (Week of Sept 15th 2008) they tied a female inmate (reports say: Jennifer Wright) up to the restraint chair naked (otherwise known as the Devil's Chair) – this woman thinks she is on fire so she removes her clothing on a regular basis. After her arms and legs were restrained the guards proceeded to mace her in front of the other inmates until she agreed to stop screaming. If this isn't torture not sure what is, and it is so normal now that they don't even try to hide it as they did this in front of the other female inmates. This violates Federal & State Laws as well as International Treaties. How can they think they are so untouchable that they can do this in front of so many witnesses. The reason is simple - no one cares and they have gotten away with it for so many years! Even the people we elect and pay to care about such atrocities look the other way.
CUSTODIAL SEXUAL MISCONDUCT: Male guards do extended body searches on female prisoners which border on groping. Pat search procedures Pat searches surely do not include fondling of the breast or other private parts of the body. The guards are constantly performing excessive and unnecessary strip searches on inmates just because they can. This to me, is Custodial Sexual Misconduct in any book you look in. An investigation of current and past female inmates would happily attest to this in a court of law as with all the infractions listed here or just look at documented US District Court cases.
PUBLIC & INMATE SAFETY: HCDOC & Laundry Sanitation: Laundry duty is performed by inmates; they are not given detergent to wash clothes. They only get Baking Soda which is not sufficient to address the concerns (spread of diseases) above since all under garments are shared with each inmate. Yes, this week's panties maybe the ones Sally wore last week, Sally who has Hepatitis and you MUST wear them or you are punished and can do nothing about it, if you try or you refuse you are reprimanded and locked up in solitary for days at a time. Again, EQUAL PROTECTION & CRUEL AND UNUSUAL PUNISHMENT come to mind here.
PUBLIC & INMATE SAFETY: Sleeping areas and mattresses again are never washed and are shared among all incoming and current inmates. This would account for the high amount of Staff infections and parasites at the HCDOC facility, which of course are left untreated.
TEMPERATURE: The jail temperature is a constant 58 degrees and I'm not sure if you ever known anyone with muscular or fibroid diseases or even arthritis, this temperature can be very, very painful with someone with severe fibroid diseases especially when you're sleeping on a steel slab with little more than a sleeping bag as padding. 58 Degrees is far below the American Disabilities Act regulations. I was talking to one former inmate that was there during the winter months and he stated he had almost a 1/2 inch of ice on his cell wall. The purpose of this is 2 fold and is designed to make the inmate suffer needlessly and to attempt to keep bacteria and viruses to a minimum.
CONSTANT VERBAL ABUSE: The female inmates at this facility are constantly being verbally abused by the guards. Being called "f....ing bitches" and other vulgarities on a regular basis. This slowly and constantly strips the female inmates of any dignity they may have left. These are human beings not animals and many of these inmates are young kids 18 and 19 years old who have made mistakes - not career criminals.
GUARDS ACCEPTING BRIBES: It is a common occurrence for guards to accept, even request items from the inmates commissionaire in exchange for additional privileges, this leaves the question of what else has been used as bribes and what is the monetary value they are willing to do. A bribe is a bribe no matter if it's a 5 cent fireball, sexual favors or a thousand dollars. It's still against the law.
The major complaint the women of MCDOC had was about the health care. Incoming prisoners are subjected to sudden withdrawal from psychotropic drugs, which is extremely dangerous. While I was at MCDOC, one prisoner committed suicide. I do not know if it was due to sudden withdrawal or other reasons, but stopping these medications abruptly can give people suicidal impulses. One woman I spoke with could not get her prescription given to her until her blood pressure rose to dangerous levels. I witnesses anther woman being given inappropriate psychotropic drugs, causing her to act crazy until she decided to discontinue them.
One evening a young woman had some medical problem which caused her to lose consciousness. She hit the cement hard and lay there knocked cold. Minutes later, Corporal Saucier made her get up and walk out of the room. When a fellow prisoner suggested the woman needed a stretcher or wheelchair, she was punished for speaking out.
Not being able to imagine how anyone could stand locking people up like animals as a livelihood, I asked why people become prison guards. The guards I chatted with at Merrimack County viewed their jobs as helping people rather than punishing them. One guard spent a lot of time encouraging people to go to all the AA and other meetings of that type to help with their addictions. Another pointed out how they help some prisoners by teaching new skills – some prisoners arrive having never made a bed or with no experience keeping a room clean -- but he also recognized that the young prisoners are exposed to influences while imprisoned that lead them to doing more crime. Many guards are returning from war and want to continue that line of work. For some, it's used as a stepping stone to a "real" police job. Some it's just for the money. A few want to help people by locking them in cages.
Quote from: Defender of Liberty on October 10, 2008, 07:58 AM NHFT
Quote from: Lloyd Danforth on October 10, 2008, 05:55 AM NHFT
Shorty would buy a NH Atlas from Lloyd. $15.00, $5.00 of which goes to the Liberty Scholarship Fund.
IIRC, that same atlas would cost you $20 at the store, so Lloyd has the best deal around.
Not only that but, as Fritz Weatherbee, who (.bla .bla NH.), sold his book after class said, "
Sometimes you want to buy a gift for someone and the lower limit on a good gift is $20". "If it sold for less, you would be cheating the person for whom you wanted buy a gift." Weatherbee said that was how he came up with the price of his book.
Buy one from Lloyd. And, don't forget to also buy them as gifts.
Support the LSF. Liberty Scholarship Fund money goes to "THE CHILDREN."
Oh and the extra $5? You could give it to The LSF.
Or to Lloyd
or to me. ;D
Great insight on the articles Kat. Interesting...
Great article Kat.
Makes me sad to think of all the people suffering. Once you become a prisoner you are considered trash and can be constantly victimized. How can these CO's think they are helping people as they watch them suffer?
Reno told me after his arrest in Texas he was beaten up pretty bad. When he was transfered up North and in some jail, he went to see a doctor who basically yelled at him, gave him shit, and did nothing to ease his pain or tend to his body. He said he learned real quick that is was a waste of time to seek medical treatment. I've already printed your article and it will go out to him today.
I remember when I was a youth and did a few stints jail, my biggest fear was being raped by the authorities, I knew I could fight off any other attacker, but the police, prison guards had you in their clutches, you basically had no way out of that situation.
I hope that all of our protesting and phone calls when Lauren was in Valley Street Jail kept her from being vicitmized too much by the guards. I suspect she wouldn't have said anything if something really bad happened in there. :(
I'm sick to my stomach. . . thanks for that, but it's just so disgusting to me I feel the want to do something, but don't know what it could be that I could do. Right now, I couldn't do anything without making myself look like a crazy anarchist asshole. . . so I won't.
Quote from: AntonLee on October 10, 2008, 11:28 PM NHFT
I'm sick to my stomach. . . thanks for that, but it's just so disgusting to me I feel the want to do something, but don't know what it could be that I could do. Right now, I couldn't do anything without making myself look like a crazy anarchist asshole. . . so I won't.
If influential citizens (city council members and the like) could start getting arrested in extensive numbers on a regular basis, and see for themselves just what's going on, it could help. As the laws are written such that no citizen is innocent, it seems that could be arranged.
Just sayin'.
city council members are the system ... they use it to abuse us ... you will have to step up to the plate if you want to reform things ... you will wait forever for words to change politician's minds.
The next time one of 'our' ladies is in jail, we should do a protest outside the jail all wearing 'wifebeater' A shirts on the outside of our regular clothes. Since they enjoy apparantly unlimited power to rough up other peoples daughters and wives, they should be called what they are. At any point some of the ethical gaurds can stop the abuse, if they do not want to be called wife beaters, they need to do it. Interfere in the abuse.
I'd love to hear about your personal day-to-day experiences in jail. And any disobediance you did while in custody. Tell us about the food, beds, clothes. Anything you witnesses, good bad or otherwise.