Blogging for Freedom

From the New York Times:   "Three Atlanta police officers, whose no-knock drug raid resulted in the death of a 92-year old woman last November, were indicted today on multiple charges, including felony murder.  The woman, Kathryn Johnson, died in a hail of bullets after three plain-clothes police officers burst into her home without warning, acting on a tip from an informant who said that drugs were being dealt from that location."

 It became apparent to us long ago in the medical marijuana movement that the militarization and Rambo-esque tactics of drug police was resulting in innocent deaths and trauma.  I am actually surprised there aren't more violent incidents.   It is not safe for anyone, including police officers and authorities who need to carry out legitimate operations.  We support the police.  We want them to do their jobs effectively and safely.  But, they have ratcheted up the level of confrontion and aggression that it's force - by it's very nature - will be met with same.

We are a peaceful people! In my case, 14 DEA agents, county drug task team and various city police officers raided my home in full SWAT gear.  Like a raid on a home of a suspected terrorist.  They knew I was a medical marijuana activist and anti-war protestor.  I have no criminal history.  I am absolutely dedicated to peace and love.  I'm an old hippie, for God's sake!  They could have knocked on my front door with a warrant saying, "OK, the gig is up." I would have fully cooperated while calling my attorney.   Peace Brother.

But, no.  They treated me like I was a dangerous criminal terrorist drug kingpin poisoning the neighborhood children.  Murderers and child abusers are treated with more respect and dignity. If anyone had been home at the time, no telling what could have happened.   I thank the Lord I was spared the horrer of experiencing black-hooded government officials trashing my home, laughing at my work and service and beliefs, stealing my belongings and threatening my neighbors and friends.

All because they saw me at a legal assembly for medical marijuana. They put me under investigation and surveillance. They acted to arrest me and put me in prison.  They meant to silence me.