IN GOD WE TRUST” … OR NOT

Occasionally, I encounter a truly scary defendant. Such was the case with Mr. M. He was brought in front of me for stalking a member of the local state troopers. Seriously, who stalks the state police? Mr. M looked quite capable of causing damage to almost anyone caught alone. In addition, Mr. M had prior military experience and consequently was familiar with firearms. In any case,he was caught trespassing on property that bordered the state police barracks. It was at a higher elevation than the barracks which allowed him a good view of the back side of the barracks and the parking lot. He had previously threatened a particular trooper whom he had encountered on the road in front of his home while the trooper was issuing a traffic ticket.

Upon invitation, he appeared voluntarily in my court on the stalking charge. When I called his name he proceeded to walk up to the bar in front of my “bench.” He stopped and then turned his back to me. I expected that he was planning to hold court and air his grievances about government and law enforcement, but before he could say anything I asked him if there was a problem. He responded “Those words over your head hurt my eyes!” Now, on the wall behind me is written: “In God we trust.” You will find this in most courtrooms across the country. I am sure that eventually the anti religion people will have that removed, but for now it is there. I didn’t miss a beat and remarked “You’re very sensitive for such a large and robust looking man.”

The audience giggled. Mr. M was off balance now and though he never turned to face me he didn’t engage the audience either. I assigned him an attorney and adjourned the matter quickly so that he had no excuse for remaining in my court. I couldn’t see his face, but I could tell that he was at a loss as to what to do. Any planned speech or demonstration seemed to have left his mind. Three of my four security personnel all began approaching him at once.

One from his immediate left and two more from the courtroom entrance. He knew that he was done and started to move towards the exit. As he got close to the two officers approaching him he said “I’m leaving voluntarily.” They parted, one to each side to allow him to pass. The third officer resumed his position to my left and the other two followed Mr. M out of the court. He never appeared for his next court date and rumor has it that he has relocated to the Carolinas. I am not going to issue a warrant as long as he stays outside of New York State.