Tag: crime

“If the Glove Shrinks: Lawyers, Loopholes, and the Big Beautiful Mess of Justice”

“If the Glove Shrinks: Lawyers, Loopholes, and the Big Beautiful Mess of Justice”

In my latest literary masterpiece, The Big Beautiful Book of Stupid Shit (yes, that’s the real title, and no, I don’t regret it), I dive headfirst into some of the most baffling, infuriating, and downright idiotic aspects of the human condition. Spoiler alert: humanity is weird, and I’m here to talk about it.For example, let’s chat about lawyers. Specifically, the ones willing to defend the absolute worst people among us—the ones who make you pause mid-sandwich and say, “Wait, why are they even trying?” You know the type. They’re the ones standing up in court for murderers, war criminals, and people who willingly put pineapple on pizza.Take Charlie Kirk, for instance. Imagine defending that walking, talking Facebook comment section. The guy could probably strangle a basket of kittens on live TV, and some lawyer would still show up in court, briefcase in hand, ready to argue that “the kittens provoked him.” It makes you wonder—why? Why do these people do it? Are they just morally bankrupt? Are they paid in gold bars? Is there some kind of secret lawyer cult that demands sacrifices to the God of Loopholes?

The O.J. Trial: A Masterclass in Legal Shenanigans

Let’s rewind to the O.J. Simpson trial, that glorious dumpster fire of the 90s that had the whole world glued to their TVs. I’m pretty sure I taped it, but who knows—I might’ve just blacked out from secondhand embarrassment. Everyone and their dog knew O.J. was guilty. The man practically left a bloody trail to his living room. But did that stop his “Dream Team” of lawyers from turning the trial into the Super Bowl of legal theatrics? Hell no.And then came the moment that will live in infamy: the glove. You know the one. The leather glove soaked in blood that obviously shrank because, fun fact, wet leather shrinks. It’s science, people. But when O.J. tried it on and did his little “oops, doesn’t fit” dance, the jury collectively nodded and said, “Well, if the glove doesn’t fit, we must acquit.” I mean, come on. That’s like saying, “If the shoes don’t tie, the guy didn’t die.”By the way, did you know Native Americans used wet leather as a weapon of torture? True story. They’d bury their enemies up to their necks, tie a wet leather strap around their heads, and let the desert sun do the rest. The leather would dry, shrink, and slowly crush their skulls. Brutal, right? Now imagine some modern lawyer defending that. “Your honor, my clients were simply engaging in culturally significant headgear practices. They’re innocent.”

The T. Cullen Davis Shitshow

Speaking of Texas-sized legal disasters, let’s talk about T. Cullen Davis. If you’ve never heard of him, congrats—you have a healthy brain that hasn’t been poisoned by true crime rabbit holes. This guy was a millionaire accused of, among other things, murder. And who was his lawyer? Racehorse Haynes, a man with a name so Texas it might as well be wearing spurs. Haynes was so good at his job that you have to wonder if he made some kind of Faustian deal with the Devil himself. Honestly, I wouldn’t be surprised if Haynes and Satan are currently doing laps together in the lake of fire, swapping war stories about all the guilty people they got off the hook.

So, Why Do Lawyers Defend These People?

Here’s the kicker: defense attorneys don’t take these cases because they’re evil or because they secretly enjoy high-fiving serial killers in the breakroom. Nope. They do it because the justice system, as gloriously messy and flawed as it is, only works if everyone gets a fair trial. That means even the scumbags, the psychos, and yes, even the pineapple-on-pizza people deserve someone in their corner.These lawyers aren’t there to say, “Hey, my client is a great guy who accidentally stabbed 14 people.” They’re there to make sure the system doesn’t screw it up. Because if the system can railroad the guilty, it can definitely railroad the innocent. And that’s when things go from “mildly horrifying” to “full-on dystopia.”

How the Hell Do They Sleep at Night?

You’re probably wondering how these lawyers manage to sleep at night after defending, say, a guy who stole candy from babies or a hedge fund manager who tanked the economy. The answer? Compartmentalization. That’s therapist-speak for “shoving all your guilt and moral dilemmas into a mental closet and slamming the door shut.”Defense attorneys also lean on professional ethics, peer support, and the occasional stiff drink to get through it. They convince themselves that they’re not defending the crime—they’re defending the process. And honestly? They’re not wrong. The legal system doesn’t work without them. Just don’t expect them to win any popularity contests.

Final Thoughts: The Big, Stupid Picture

At the end of the day, defending the indefensible is a thankless job, but somebody’s gotta do it. Without defense attorneys, the justice system would be about as fair as a rigged carnival game. Sure, it’s frustrating to watch some smirking sociopath walk free because of a technicality, but the alternative—living in a world where justice is arbitrary and rights are optional—is way worse.So, the next time you’re shaking your head at some lawyer defending a guy who obviously did it, just remember: they’re not sleeping peacefully because they condone the crime. They’re sleeping peacefully because they know they’re upholding the system. Or maybe they’re just really good at compartmentalizing. Either way, they’re doing their job—and, like it or not, we all benefit from it.Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to write my next chapter: “Why People Still Put Up With Reality TV.” Spoiler: I have no idea.

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The Return of Firing Squad Executions in the U.S.

The Return of Firing Squad Executions in the U.S.


I have been on the fence regarding the Death Penalty since I was a child.
For those of you old enough to remember grade school, when we got back from lunch and there was a projector in the room it was a great day!


Well, that was not the case one day in the third grade—yes, third grade. Most of us were 9 years old, and we didn’t know too much about war. For me, Vietnam was fresh on our minds even though we couldn’t find it on a map; we all knew someone who was involved.


The film that day was The Execution of Private Slovik. In case you never saw the film, the story revolves around a soldier named Private Slovak, who is executed for the crime of cowardice.

The events unfold in a manner that highlights the absurdity and tragedy of war. Vonnegut uses dark humor and irony to convey the senselessness of the military’s decision, questioning the values and morals of those in power.


“The Execution of Private Slovak” serves as a powerful commentary on the nature of war and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in extreme circumstances. Vonnegut’s unique style and perspective prompt readers to reflect on the consequences of conflict and the human capacity for both cruelty and compassion.


The film adaptation of “The Execution of Private Slovak” is likely aimed at a mature audience, primarily due to its themes of war, morality, and the psychological impact of conflict.
The film’s production was so compelling that I still suffer from PTSD after seeing it in 1974 as a child.
I don’t have to tell you that the ‘teacher’ who sucked at teaching BTW had no business showing that film to nine-year-olds.

That brings me to my reason for this blog post…


Recent Execution by Firing Squad
Today, March 8, 2025, marks a significant event in the realm of capital punishment in the United States, as Brad Sigmon, a 67-year-old inmate, was executed by firing squad in South Carolina. This execution is notable as it is the first firing squad execution in the U.S. in 15 years, with the last one occurring in Utah in 2010.

Brad Sigmon was convicted of a double murder in 2002, where he killed his ex-girlfriend’s parents. He opted for the firing squad as his method of execution, rejecting other options such as electrocution or lethal injection. This choice has sparked discussions about the ethics and humanity of various execution methods, especially given the controversies surrounding lethal injections and their potential for botched procedures.


The execution has drawn significant attention and criticism, with many labeling the firing squad as a “barbaric” method of execution. There have been calls for clemency and debates about the appropriateness of using such methods in modern society. The return of firing squads as a method of execution raises questions about the evolving landscape of capital punishment in the U.S. and the moral implications involved.


Well, I don’t have to tell you that his death has resonated with me.


Unlike many, I feel as if we gain something when a mass murderer doesn’t commit suicide by cop or just plain old taking the coward’s way out and offing themselves.


Learning from the experiences of convicted murderers can help identify patterns that lead to violent behavior. This knowledge can inform community preventive strategies, such as mental health support, conflict resolution programs, and educational initiatives to reduce violence.


I maintain that we have a mental health crisis in this country and most probably around the globe.
As the Trump administration focuses on improving America’s health, mental health should be a key component.

This person chose this method to die as a statement. Why? What was his reasoning to die in such a horrific manner? Will his death dissuade others from committing acts of violence?


What are your thoughts?
Should we have the death penalty?
If we have it how should it be carried out?

As you can see, I enjoy sharing my views on current events. Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below.


I am thrilled to share an exciting update with you—my latest book, 1300 Feet per Second, will be released soon! This novel delves into the intricacies of human resilience and the relentless pursuit of one’s dreams, all set against the backdrop of gripping adventure and unforeseen challenges.
Your support has always been invaluable to me, and I am incredibly eager for you to dive into the pages of 1300 Feet per Second. This story will captivate your imagination and resonate with your spirit, much like it did with mine during the writing process.


In addition to this new release, I invite you to explore my current collection of books available on Amazon. Each title carries a piece of my heart and endless hours of dedication, crafted to offer you memorable and enriching literary experiences.


Thank you for being such a passionate and supportive community. I look forward to hearing your thoughts on 1300 Feet per Second and hope you find joy and inspiration in all my works.
Happy reading!


Warm regards,
Scott
Discover more of my books:

If your in to reading short stories for free…Follow the link and read my contest entries on the Reedsy web site in the UK.

“What is one to do, shoot someone for $200?”

“What is one to do, shoot someone for $200?”

 

A recent post on a neighborhood blog elicited this response from me.  The man had some tools taken from his truck in his driveway and was upset.  He asked the question, what is one to do, shoot someone for taking my tools?

 

Here is my response to him and I think germane enough to share with you, good folks.

 

You (he) asks a good question.  “What am I to do, shoot someone for $200?”

Firstly, shooting someone for any reason will affect your life forever.  My litmus test is “Am I genuinely afraid for my life, or those lives of my family?”

If I am genuinely afraid, then the rest of this is a mute point.  Carried by six, judged by twelve, simple math really. 

The opioid epidemic is probably responsible for the increase in small crimes like this, as fewer and fewer doctors are now prescribing these types of “legal” drugs   Legal or not, people are addicted to them and addictions will cause some to sell their mother into slavery for them.  If they cannot get them legally, they will get them on the street.

That in and of itself might solve some of the addiction issues, as what they get on the street might very well end their suffering, permanently.  Not my wish or desire, just simple facts. Truth told they know the risk too and will do it anyway.  That should tell you something about their state of mind, and the risk they will take for a few tools from your truck.

Balancing petty crimes against lethal force is a tough call.  So what is one to do?

In this day and age, we have many tools at our disposal.

Alarm your vehicle.  Mine is set to lock and arm after 45 seconds, should a family member, or I forget.

“Viper Alarm from Car Toys.”

Keep your valuables out of sight.

Brand your tools or other valuables so that a pawn shop will not be interested in them.

Ring.com  makes some not too expensive devices like the floodlight cam and the doorbell.

Both are easy installs for the average homeowner.

That video goes up to the cloud and stays there for some time. In case your home is vandalized the evidence is not where the criminal can get to it.

  • You said you heard them, Dial 911
  • Turn on lights, so they know that you heard them.
  • With the Ring floodlight cam, there is a siren that you can set off.  Noises are not what they want.
  • Open your window and set off an air horn if nothing else.  Yell at them telling them the cops are on the way!  I would not use Uncle Joe’s advice about touching off your shotgun in the air.  Noise is the right idea, just not shotguns.

I would imagine that smash and grab is their ideal way to work so sound and lights will alert your neighbors as well.  Usually, they work in pairs. Getting a plate for the cops is a very good idea. Any information is valuable.  Many have cameras set up to watch the streets and alleys.  Talk to your neighbors and see if they captured anything.

If you were to go out there with your shotgun or another deadly force weapon you might very well be surprised to find that you are now in harm’s way as they had a partner.  If on the other hand, you were to injure them or kill them, some subhuman life form of a lawyer would find any family members that they had and represent them on a contingency basis to sue you civilly.   Pictures of the dead or injured person from his or her days in church, scouts, the soccer field as a 12-year-old, or as a family member and good dad or mom would adorn the courtroom.  They would paint this person as the ideal person having them appear the saint, and you the angry old curmudgeon without any heart, hell-bent on killing people with your mean old gun.  If the perp is or was a different race or gender than you, that too will factor into swaying the jury that you are now a racist or a sexist or both.

If you cannot afford a lawyer, they might very well get a judgment against you.  It is relatively simple to emotionally manipulate a jury.  This would then cost much more than a few hundred dollars in tools. As it is a civil case and not a criminal case, no free Lawyers for you.

If you can afford one and you had best be able to, it will cost you no less than $5K on a no bill.  The process will go on for months, and it will consume you.

“What is one to do?” You asked

Good luck, I hope that you or our neighbors find some of this information helpful….

Full disclosure, I have no vested interest in any of the products or companies mentioned. I also do not believe that all lawyers are sub-human life forms. 🙂

 

-Best

https://drugabuse.com/

https://ring.com/

https://www.viper.com/

 

Gun Control, Abortion and Politics

ImageThese issues are so divisive, so volatile, that they have ruined many candidates’ chances for ever getting elected. 

 

Case in point: Q: Mr. Ryan, how do you feel about abortion?  A: As a Christian conservative I value all life and I believe that abortion should be very limited.

Correct Answer: My personal values and beliefs on this issue are not germane to the conversation. If elected, I will work hard to get these types of decisions pushed back to the state where they belong, so the people in each state can decide by the democratic process how they feel these issues should be handled.

 

His answer is of course paraphrased but you can see the difference.  The correct answer would have garnered him more votes as he recognized the limits of government and even though the Christian conservative comment would have gained him some votes; he most likely already had those votes in the red states and lost votes in the blue states where they needed them.  The real gotcha part of the question was diverted in the correct answer and instead of it being a negative as the “reporter” intended, it would have been neutered at the least and a positive at best.

 

The rhetoric that these issues generate alone, cloud the real issues of the day like the economy and or the events in the Middle East.  These two issues take the forefront on the news and the campaign trial, instead of the issues that really matter.  Gun control, dominates the nightly news rather than the media dealing with the real issues of the day. 

 

The Middle East is on fire, hundreds of thousand are killed and we talk about creating a law that has no chance of working in this country, ever!  They would have to shred the constitution for it to have a chance; and Uncle Joe touting his shotgun rhetoric would have to keep mute; as he gives the gun lobbyist more “ammo,” every time he speaks on the subject. 

 

The simple facts are that there is not a “one size fits all solution” for an entire country on either of these two issues.  On top of this if you bother to do any research, you will find places like Chicago who have some of the toughest gun laws, also enjoy some of the highest murder rates or crime rates committed with guns, anywhere in the country. 

 

It is my contention that these issues are played up intentionally and strategically when there are other issues that are showing up on the radar that the administration wants to re-focus the public’s attention away from. Benghazi was one such issue, and Fast and Furious another; just to name two.  I would bet that in the industry; issues like this have names, much like “puff piece,” which this would not be, or some such other type of piece like a “Houdini.”

 

 

The state should be the one to deal with these issues although I bet that they are happy that they don’t have to.    There is a reason that we have red and blue states.  The majority of the people in the “highly populated” areas of those states are fairly like minded for one reason or another.  These areas attract more people who are also of similar ilk.  That is perfectly ok as one should be allowed to vote with their feet.

 

If Colorado wants to legalize pot (which they did) and you are of the belief that it should be legal, you may be interested in moving there.  If Texans think that wearing a gun should be synonymous with wearing clothes, you may want to live there (if you’re a good guy) or stay the hell away if you are prone to picking fights or doing stupid things. “An armed society is a polite society.”

 

Much like football, the quarterback fakes the throw and our attention “and the opposing teams attention” is momentarily taken off the real ball, and then the handoff happens.  Politics or those who practice it, work the same way.  The people that we hire, that should be watching out for us are all up there playing quarterback with trillions of tax payer’s dollars.

 

Of course if gun control and abortion are not enough to divert your complete attention; than the race card, the gay card, and the class warfare card and my personal all time favorite, some imagined war on women come into play.  Never have I seen the “war on babies” card played, which it should be.

 

Keep your eyes on the ball.  This is not an R or a D thing, it is a people thing, and those inside the beltway should be held not only to higher standards, but they should be held accountable; accountable not to the people who gambled millions of dollars on their reelection bid; but to us, the tax payer.  When any of these cards are played, keep looking for what they are hiding.  Start looking at other media rather than the main stream media for the answers.  If you are a huge Fox news fan, make sure that you watch CNN as well. The reverse is true if you are a Chris Mathews Fan.  I personally read news from all over the globe, as they are watching us, and there is a good chance that their dog in the fight is not that of the current administrations.  The more that any of the above cards are dominating the news, or trending, the more I look elsewhere, to see what is happening.

 

To borrow a phrase from the X-Files, “the truth is out there,” seek and ye shall find.  “The truth has no Agenda.”

 

-Best to you and those that you care about!