Porn forfeiture stymied; judge bars confiscation of $10 million in assets based on two obscene tapes

Article Abstract:

Dallas, Texas US District Court Judge Barefoot Sanders has denied the federal government's attempt to seize $10 million of property from defendants convicted of shipping obscene videotapes across state lines. The Oct 17, 1991 decision criticizes the application of, but not the constitutionality of, a 1988 law which allows the government, with a judge's approval, to confiscate any property used in committing an obscene offense. Sanders also criticized the government for going after not only the producers and distributor of the tapes, but also the company that made the video boxes. Sanders did allow the government to confiscate the $10 worth of tapes seized.

Cases, Freedom of speech, Forfeiture, Obscenity (Law), Obscenity

---

Trials suspended in Tyler, Texas; judge cites racial tensions as reason for two-month hiatus

Article Abstract:

Racial tensions in Tyler, TX, reached such a pitch that District Court Judge Joe Tunnell declared a mistrial in the case of an African American charged with the sexual assault and robbery of a white female and suspended other trials on his calendar until further notice. Several days before the mistrial a grand jury refused to indict a white policeman for the accidental shooting death of an elderly black female.

Evaluation, Public opinion, Race relations, Discrimination in criminal justice administration, Criminal justice discrimination, Police shootings

---

Funny stories; Jerry Buchmeyer is a good judge of legal humor

Article Abstract:

Jerry Buchmeyer is a well-respected federal district judge in Texas who is also well-known for his humor. His sense of humor has gained him popularity on the lecture circuit. Buchmeyer's speeches follow a standard outline, two disclaimers, a lead-in and then a transition to the 'good stuff,' excerpts from his treasure-trove of comic anecdotes from the courtroom

Law, Humor and anecdotes, Buchmeyer, Jerry

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Misconduct, misfortune, and just compensation: Weinstein on torts
• Abstracts: Antitrust shift eyed with doubt. Judge is nearing decision on bailout for Mutual Benefit
• Abstracts: Reform bill is dangerous electioneering. Chapter 11 retailers peril landlords. Regs on claims trading may fall short
• Abstracts: Cop's second trial in L.A.; judge who sent King beating trial to Simi Valley denies venue change. Firings to continue; survey shows 86 percent of large law firms planning associate layoffs
• Abstracts: "Palace revolt" by Nevada justices? Members of state high court spar over pace of decisions, chief's fitness. One opinion, two controversies; 2nd Circuit limits copyright protection for software, approves court expert

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.