Topic: Patriot Act

APSU mock trial explores boundaries of Constitutional Rights

By Debbie Boen | April 8, 2008 |

A “Mock Trial” is being held in conjunction with the American Constitutional Law II class being taught by Dr. Greg Rabidoux in the Department of Political Science. This class deals with individual civil liberties including free speech, freedom of religion, freedom of the press and freedom of assembly. The trial will be held April 8, 10, 15, and 17, (Tuesdays and Thursdays) between 9:30-11:00 at the University Center, Room 308 and is open to the public. The verdict will be announced April 17th at the end of that day’s session.

The issues are on the Bill of Rights and implicate university free speech zones, university speech codes, and the USA Patriot Act powers and students’ rights of free assembly. «Read the rest of this article»

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Judge says section of Patriot Act “offends” Constitutional principles

By Christine Anne Piesyk | September 6, 2007 |

“Democracy abhors undue secrecy … an unlimited government warrant to conceal… has no place in our open society… - US District Judge Victor Marrero

At least one part of the revised USA Patriot Act of 2001 has fallen under a federal judge’s gavel in a ruling that requires a court approval before investigators can order internet providers to turn over customer records. The ruling is another blow to already beleaguered Bush administration and its anti-terrorist policies.

The USA Patriot Act of 2001 (revised in 2005) is a perpetually controversial package of anti-terrorist legislation that has been sharply criticized for its apparent violations of basic constitutional rights and civil liberties.

In a 120-page ruling, US District Judge Victor Marrero supported the American Civil Liberties Union contention that the government’s ability to demand records and use administrative subpoenas known as security letters without warrants or judicial review was a violation of free speech and individual rights. The letters under protest include a gag order that also prohibited businesses from disclosing that such demands were even made. Marrero said the law “substantially deters any judicial challenge.” «Read the rest of this article»

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