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Miami Judge: Police Committed Felonies At Protest

HeadlineDec 22, 2003

A judge in Miami has said in open court that he personally saw police officers commit at least 20 felonies during protests last month in the city. The judge, 60-year-old Richard Margolius, said he would have been arrested himself at the demonstrations against the Free Trade Area of the Americas had a police officer not recognized him as a judge. Margolius’ comments came during the trial of two protesters after he asked state prosecutors how many police officers had been charged so far for their actions on the street. When the prosecutor said none, Margolius, said that was a “Pretty sad commentary.” Margolius continued that it was '’Pretty disgraceful what I saw with my own eyes. And I have always supported the police during my entire career. This was a real eye-opener. A disgrace for the community.'’ The AFL-CIO, American Civil Liberties Union and other groups have announced plans to use the city and Miami Police Chief John Timoney for their actions during the protests. Over 200 protesters were arrested, scores were beaten by police and shot with rubber bullets and tear gas. In related news, Miami police chief Timoney has begun working for the city of Boston as a security consultant for the upcoming Democratic National Convention this summer.

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