Secondly, though, I would like to convey the message that our

 

system works. We did not need to use a secret military tribunal,

 

or detain the defendant indefinitely as an enemy combatant, or

 

deny him the right to counsel, or invoke any proceedings beyond

 

those guaranteed by or contrary to the United States

 

Constitution.

 

I would suggest that the message to the world from today's

 

sentencing is that our courts have not abandoned our commitment

 

to the ideals that set our nation apart. We can deal with the

 

threats to our national security without denying the accused

 

fundamental constitutional protections.

 

Despite the fact that Mr. Ressam is not an American citizen

 

and despite the fact that he entered this country intent upon

 

killing American citizens, he received an effective, vigorous

 

defense, and the opportunity to have his guilt or innocence

 

determined by a jury of 12 ordinary citizens.

 

Most importantly, all of this occurred in the sunlight of a

 

public trial. There were no secret proceedings, no indefinite

 

detention, no denial of counsel.

 

The tragedy of September 11th shook our sense of security and

 

made us realize that we, too, are vulnerable to acts of

 

terrorism. Unfortunately, some believe that this threat renders

 

our Constitution obsolete. This is a Constitution for which men

 

and women have died and continue to die and which has made us a

 

model among nations. If that view is allowed to prevail, the

 

terrorists will have won.

 

It is my sworn duty, and as long as there is breath in my

 

body I'll perform it, to support and defend the Constitution of

 

the United States.

http://www.crooksandliars.com/stories/2005...samSlamsUs.html

 

sentencing

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20050727/ap_on_...WtkBHNlYwM3MTg-

hey here's a novel idea...how about our 'impartial' judges kept their political opinions to themselves.

 

 

It a sad day when such commentary is considered political This judge spoke of the most fundamental rights that exist in our society. God bless her!

It a sad day when such commentary is considered political  This judge spoke of the most fundamental rights that exist in our society.  God bless her!

 

God bless him