 |
| Dr. Hovind and I, circa 1995 |
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Friday, November 4, 2011
THE JUROR
I like this one because I'm one of the few people who wants to get on jury duty so I can uphold the intent of a jury to be the final arbiter to overrule even a judge, if the situation calls for it.
http://www.2peter3.com/Court_Docs/Elijah_Green/The_Juror.pdf
THE JUROR
Bill: Excuse me Sam. I sat through the entire trial while you were on the jury. I heard all the Same
evidence you did in the court room. The guy was obviously guilty. He was a felon from eight years ago,
and he was caught with a gun. The law is perfectly clear. Felons cannot be around guns. I cannot
comprehend how you could possible vote "not guilty" after hearing all the evidence. They even showed
30 seconds of video footage from the security camera of him pointing the gun at the other guy until the
police came. He admitted it was him in the video. How could you possibly vote "not guilty"? This blows
my mind!
Sam- Do you want the short answer or the long answer?
Bill- I guess the long answer. I really want to understand.
Sam- Well then, let's start at the beginning. The founding fathers of this country were very concerned
about the evils of big government. They had been under British rule for many years and had seen
firsthand how corrupt governments can destroy freedoms and lives if they are not restrained. They
knew that power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely. I
Bill- I've heard that one before.
Sam- Well, they knew it was true so they labored long and hard to develop a simple yet powerful
Constitution that would chain down the evil beast that governments often become. They had an
expression worth quoting about that.
Bill- What was that?
Sam- They said, "If the government fears the people we have freedom, but if the people fear the
government we have tyranny." The founders were especially afraid that a huge government would grow
up in Washington DC that would usurp the powers and rights of the States and the people.
Bill- What did they do to prevent it?
Sam- They developed an ingenious multi—layer defense system that started with dividing the powers
into three competing branches to keep the others in check and carefully spelling out each branch of
government's power in the Constitution. Then they made it clear with the l0th amendment that any
powers not specifically given to the government in this Constitution are powers left to the states of the
people.
Bill- Did it work?
Sam- It worked well for many years, but slowly the federal government assumed powers and extended
their reach WAY beyond the Constitution while the people slept. The beast got loose. A good military
defense has multiple layers. If the enemy gets past the first layer the second layer is activated and then
the third and so on.
Bill- Sounds smart. ·
Sam- It is very smart, if the people responsible for each layer stay alert. We saw at Pearl Harbor what
happens when one layer fails. The founders figured that once in a while either the house or the senate
would pass a dumb bill that violated the Constitution. The other branch would catch it and not let it
proceed to become law. If it got past both houses somehow the president should veto it. He is supposed
to know the Constitution and enforce it. He took an oath to do that when he took the job.
Bill- l've seen that ceremony many times.
Sam- If he fails to catch the unconstitutionality of the law, the next layer of defense is the court system.
They can strike down bad laws.
Bill- How does that work?
Sam- There are several layers of defense just in the court system. First, the grand jury should have
people who know the Constitution and realize there is a problem when the charges are brought before
them. The grand jury can simply refuse to indict a person, regardless of the evidence, if they feel the law
is unconstitutional. For example: the Constitution does not give the federal government power to be
involved in education, welfare, fighting drugs or a thousand other things they are involved in today. If a
case involving anything the feds are not given authority over comes before them, a wise grand juror
would refuse to indict. Not because there is no evidence the guy broke the law but because the law
itself violates the Constitution. Without a grand jury indictment there is no trial. Just by not indicting
they send a clear message that the law should be annulled or rescinded.
IF it slips past them because they are not alert or not trained in their duty, the petit jury acts as another
layer of defense against the government getting out of control. ·
Bill- How can they do that?
Sam- They can hear the case and vote "Not Guilt” regardless of the evidence, to overturn bad laws.
Bill: Is that the last line of defense?
Sam: No. The last line is the second amendment. The founders didn’t include the right to bear arms so
we could go duck hunting. It is a right we have to protect ourselves from the government if they “get off
the chain."
Bill: Can you give me an example of the jury stopping a bad law?
Sam: This case we just heard is a great example. Congress passed a law that felons can’t have guns. I
think it’s a bad law, so I voted “Not Guilty." It’s called “Jury Nullification”.
Bill: Why don’t we learn about this in school?
Sam: There is plenty on the Internet about it, but most teachers have never heard of it, and some of
those who have, don’t teach it because they like the idea of big government. Who pays their salary?
Bill: I see what you mean. They have a financial reason to keep quiet about how to reign in big
government, don’t they?
Sam: Exactly like it says in I Timothy 6:10, “The love of money is the root of all evil.”
Bill: So is that why you voted "Not Guilty" today?
Sam: That’s part of the reason. I read Article III, Section 2, Clause 3 of the Constitution to clearly state
that the trial of all crimes shall be in the state where the crime occurred. They guy on trial today was not
on any federal property when he had the gun, so in my opinion, the feds have no business even bringing
charges. If the state of Georgia wants to say felons can’t have guns, they can pass a law to that effect
and the man can either move to a different state, or, challenge the law in state court. I would vote "Not
Guilty" in any federal court just for that reason. It will help keep the feds in their rightful place—under
the Constitution!
Bill: But the judge gave clear instructions that the jurors were not here to judge the law, only the facts of
the case. How could you go against the judge?
Sam: That judge can think and say anything he wants, but when the jury retires, as a juror, nobody tells
me what to say or think or how to vote. It’s my duty as a juror to uphold the Constitution. I’m free to
ignore everything the judge says, and I did. That’s the way the founders intended it. That speech about
not judging the law boloney! The jury is to be judge of both the law and the facts of the case. My "Not
Guilty" vote today should help put the beast back on it’s chain.
Secondly, the man had served his time for his crime eight years ago. I happen to think it is wrong to keep
punishing felons the rest of their life. Once they walk out the door of prison, ALL their rights should be
restored that second with no red tape, no questions asked and no forms to fill out! There are now thirty
million “felons” in America who can’t have guns. I think there is a bigger picture here as part of a plan to
disarm the citizens for a future New World Order of some kind. I think the “No guns for felons” is a bad
law and I would vote "Not Guilty" in a case like this just to get rid of that stupid and unconstitutional
law. Everyone should have guns if they want them.
Bill: But what if he was convicted of murder, or some other violent crime?
Sam: Then the problem is with the system. For some crimes, the person should be executed, not put in
prison for years. Only about 3% of all the 2.3 million people currently in prison are incarcerated for
violent crimes. The liberals always pick an extreme example to get us to miss the bigger picture. If a man
raped and murdered, or attempted to murder your daughter, he should be executed for lots of reasons.
It gives your family and especially your daughter closure. It is a great deterrent to others and especially
to the rapist! It saves society a fortune in not having to feed and house the guy for years. Plus, if he is
that violent he will make the prison unsafe for both guards and inmates. Mixing those 3% violent guys in
with the 97% non—violent creates real problems! It trains some of the 97% to become violent, and
causes great stress on everyone in and out of the prison.
If you had a vicious dog that bit people for no reason, common sense says it needs to be put down for
the good of the neighborhood, as well as to rid the gene pool of those bad genes. That’s what the Bible
teaches in Exodus 21:28-32.
Bill: That makes sense.
Sam: Anyone that serves their time and is still considered too dangerous to have ALL their rights back,
probably should have been executed instead.
Lastly, the video clearly showed that the guy was only defending his family against an intruder. He held
the bad guy at gun point until the police arrived. Sure he was a felon, and the law says he can’t have a
gun, but it’s a stupid law and cases like this show that. Everyone has a right to protect their family! If I
had voted “Guilty," he would have gone to prison for eight to ten years! I would never be able to live
with myself knowing I had done that to this guy. I would defend my family. Wouldn’t you?
Bill: I see what you mean. I must admit, when I heard his defense, I was almost convinced myself, but
the judge’s instructions threw me off! I loved it when he said, “I’d rather be caught with a gun to defend
my family, than to be caught without one." That was a great way to look at it. ‘
When you were deliberating, did the other jurors give you a hard time about voting “Not Guilty”?
Sam: Oh, my! It was terrible! They all wanted to go home. They were so angry at me for refusing to go
along with them. I refused for three days straight!
Bill: What happened when the judge sent in that order to find a verdict?
Sam: That’s called an Allen Charge or a “dynamite instruction." It is often given to a deadlocked jury like
ours. It basically says, “Get going! Find a verdict!”
Bill: What did you do?
Sam: I told them we were free to ignore this judge if we wanted and that I had done my job already. I
had found a verdict. Not Guilty! It has long been said that it is better that ten guilty men go free, than for
one innocent man to be convicted. I told them that if they wanted to go home, they could all agree with
me, or sit there for the next 100 years. I would not budge!
Bill: What happened?
Sam: I reminded them that the feds were acting outside their jurisdiction; that the law was no good
because it violated the Constitution; and that the entire charge violated common sense because the guy
had every right to both own a gun and protect his family. I told them that I wasn’t there to please them
or the judge. I was there to do my duty as an American protecting American rights under the
Constitution not to please them or the judge.
Bill: Boy! That took guts! It was sad that so few jurors even had a basic understanding of the issues at
stake or their own Constitution. The system has failed miserably to prepare jurors. No. If the real
purpose of the school system is to dumb down the people to prepare them for the New World Order in
which we have a huge world government and people have no rights from God, but only rights from
government, the system has been a great success.
Bill: I guess you are right on that one. Thanks for standing your ground, Sam. Did you plan all this?
Sam: I read about my rights as a juror in the Citizen’s Rule Book and I wanted to be on a jury like this. It
was great! I had to bite my tongue during jury selection and all through the trial so I wouldn’t blow my
cover. Once the trial was over, and we went into that room, I was in charge and I knew it. The founders
were very wise to set up a system like this. I’ll try to get on every jury I can for the rest of my life. I love
my country and I want to help put the beast back on the chain. It’s not hard. We I can still turn our
country around, if we hurry!
I hope I can get on a drug case next. The feds have no business using drugs to advance their power base.
That’s a state issue, too. After that, maybe an IRS case to shut them down! Wouldn’t that be great!
Bill: Sounds like a whole new way to look at things.
Sam: No, it’s a return to the old way.
Elijah Green
http://www.2peter3.com/Court_Docs/Elijah_Green/The_Juror.pdf
THE JUROR
Bill: Excuse me Sam. I sat through the entire trial while you were on the jury. I heard all the Same
evidence you did in the court room. The guy was obviously guilty. He was a felon from eight years ago,
and he was caught with a gun. The law is perfectly clear. Felons cannot be around guns. I cannot
comprehend how you could possible vote "not guilty" after hearing all the evidence. They even showed
30 seconds of video footage from the security camera of him pointing the gun at the other guy until the
police came. He admitted it was him in the video. How could you possibly vote "not guilty"? This blows
my mind!
Sam- Do you want the short answer or the long answer?
Bill- I guess the long answer. I really want to understand.
Sam- Well then, let's start at the beginning. The founding fathers of this country were very concerned
about the evils of big government. They had been under British rule for many years and had seen
firsthand how corrupt governments can destroy freedoms and lives if they are not restrained. They
knew that power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely. I
Bill- I've heard that one before.
Sam- Well, they knew it was true so they labored long and hard to develop a simple yet powerful
Constitution that would chain down the evil beast that governments often become. They had an
expression worth quoting about that.
Bill- What was that?
Sam- They said, "If the government fears the people we have freedom, but if the people fear the
government we have tyranny." The founders were especially afraid that a huge government would grow
up in Washington DC that would usurp the powers and rights of the States and the people.
Bill- What did they do to prevent it?
Sam- They developed an ingenious multi—layer defense system that started with dividing the powers
into three competing branches to keep the others in check and carefully spelling out each branch of
government's power in the Constitution. Then they made it clear with the l0th amendment that any
powers not specifically given to the government in this Constitution are powers left to the states of the
people.
Bill- Did it work?
Sam- It worked well for many years, but slowly the federal government assumed powers and extended
their reach WAY beyond the Constitution while the people slept. The beast got loose. A good military
defense has multiple layers. If the enemy gets past the first layer the second layer is activated and then
the third and so on.
Bill- Sounds smart. ·
Sam- It is very smart, if the people responsible for each layer stay alert. We saw at Pearl Harbor what
happens when one layer fails. The founders figured that once in a while either the house or the senate
would pass a dumb bill that violated the Constitution. The other branch would catch it and not let it
proceed to become law. If it got past both houses somehow the president should veto it. He is supposed
to know the Constitution and enforce it. He took an oath to do that when he took the job.
Bill- l've seen that ceremony many times.
Sam- If he fails to catch the unconstitutionality of the law, the next layer of defense is the court system.
They can strike down bad laws.
Bill- How does that work?
Sam- There are several layers of defense just in the court system. First, the grand jury should have
people who know the Constitution and realize there is a problem when the charges are brought before
them. The grand jury can simply refuse to indict a person, regardless of the evidence, if they feel the law
is unconstitutional. For example: the Constitution does not give the federal government power to be
involved in education, welfare, fighting drugs or a thousand other things they are involved in today. If a
case involving anything the feds are not given authority over comes before them, a wise grand juror
would refuse to indict. Not because there is no evidence the guy broke the law but because the law
itself violates the Constitution. Without a grand jury indictment there is no trial. Just by not indicting
they send a clear message that the law should be annulled or rescinded.
IF it slips past them because they are not alert or not trained in their duty, the petit jury acts as another
layer of defense against the government getting out of control. ·
Bill- How can they do that?
Sam- They can hear the case and vote "Not Guilt” regardless of the evidence, to overturn bad laws.
Bill: Is that the last line of defense?
Sam: No. The last line is the second amendment. The founders didn’t include the right to bear arms so
we could go duck hunting. It is a right we have to protect ourselves from the government if they “get off
the chain."
Bill: Can you give me an example of the jury stopping a bad law?
Sam: This case we just heard is a great example. Congress passed a law that felons can’t have guns. I
think it’s a bad law, so I voted “Not Guilty." It’s called “Jury Nullification”.
Bill: Why don’t we learn about this in school?
Sam: There is plenty on the Internet about it, but most teachers have never heard of it, and some of
those who have, don’t teach it because they like the idea of big government. Who pays their salary?
Bill: I see what you mean. They have a financial reason to keep quiet about how to reign in big
government, don’t they?
Sam: Exactly like it says in I Timothy 6:10, “The love of money is the root of all evil.”
Bill: So is that why you voted "Not Guilty" today?
Sam: That’s part of the reason. I read Article III, Section 2, Clause 3 of the Constitution to clearly state
that the trial of all crimes shall be in the state where the crime occurred. They guy on trial today was not
on any federal property when he had the gun, so in my opinion, the feds have no business even bringing
charges. If the state of Georgia wants to say felons can’t have guns, they can pass a law to that effect
and the man can either move to a different state, or, challenge the law in state court. I would vote "Not
Guilty" in any federal court just for that reason. It will help keep the feds in their rightful place—under
the Constitution!
Bill: But the judge gave clear instructions that the jurors were not here to judge the law, only the facts of
the case. How could you go against the judge?
Sam: That judge can think and say anything he wants, but when the jury retires, as a juror, nobody tells
me what to say or think or how to vote. It’s my duty as a juror to uphold the Constitution. I’m free to
ignore everything the judge says, and I did. That’s the way the founders intended it. That speech about
not judging the law boloney! The jury is to be judge of both the law and the facts of the case. My "Not
Guilty" vote today should help put the beast back on it’s chain.
Secondly, the man had served his time for his crime eight years ago. I happen to think it is wrong to keep
punishing felons the rest of their life. Once they walk out the door of prison, ALL their rights should be
restored that second with no red tape, no questions asked and no forms to fill out! There are now thirty
million “felons” in America who can’t have guns. I think there is a bigger picture here as part of a plan to
disarm the citizens for a future New World Order of some kind. I think the “No guns for felons” is a bad
law and I would vote "Not Guilty" in a case like this just to get rid of that stupid and unconstitutional
law. Everyone should have guns if they want them.
Bill: But what if he was convicted of murder, or some other violent crime?
Sam: Then the problem is with the system. For some crimes, the person should be executed, not put in
prison for years. Only about 3% of all the 2.3 million people currently in prison are incarcerated for
violent crimes. The liberals always pick an extreme example to get us to miss the bigger picture. If a man
raped and murdered, or attempted to murder your daughter, he should be executed for lots of reasons.
It gives your family and especially your daughter closure. It is a great deterrent to others and especially
to the rapist! It saves society a fortune in not having to feed and house the guy for years. Plus, if he is
that violent he will make the prison unsafe for both guards and inmates. Mixing those 3% violent guys in
with the 97% non—violent creates real problems! It trains some of the 97% to become violent, and
causes great stress on everyone in and out of the prison.
If you had a vicious dog that bit people for no reason, common sense says it needs to be put down for
the good of the neighborhood, as well as to rid the gene pool of those bad genes. That’s what the Bible
teaches in Exodus 21:28-32.
Bill: That makes sense.
Sam: Anyone that serves their time and is still considered too dangerous to have ALL their rights back,
probably should have been executed instead.
Lastly, the video clearly showed that the guy was only defending his family against an intruder. He held
the bad guy at gun point until the police arrived. Sure he was a felon, and the law says he can’t have a
gun, but it’s a stupid law and cases like this show that. Everyone has a right to protect their family! If I
had voted “Guilty," he would have gone to prison for eight to ten years! I would never be able to live
with myself knowing I had done that to this guy. I would defend my family. Wouldn’t you?
Bill: I see what you mean. I must admit, when I heard his defense, I was almost convinced myself, but
the judge’s instructions threw me off! I loved it when he said, “I’d rather be caught with a gun to defend
my family, than to be caught without one." That was a great way to look at it. ‘
When you were deliberating, did the other jurors give you a hard time about voting “Not Guilty”?
Sam: Oh, my! It was terrible! They all wanted to go home. They were so angry at me for refusing to go
along with them. I refused for three days straight!
Bill: What happened when the judge sent in that order to find a verdict?
Sam: That’s called an Allen Charge or a “dynamite instruction." It is often given to a deadlocked jury like
ours. It basically says, “Get going! Find a verdict!”
Bill: What did you do?
Sam: I told them we were free to ignore this judge if we wanted and that I had done my job already. I
had found a verdict. Not Guilty! It has long been said that it is better that ten guilty men go free, than for
one innocent man to be convicted. I told them that if they wanted to go home, they could all agree with
me, or sit there for the next 100 years. I would not budge!
Bill: What happened?
Sam: I reminded them that the feds were acting outside their jurisdiction; that the law was no good
because it violated the Constitution; and that the entire charge violated common sense because the guy
had every right to both own a gun and protect his family. I told them that I wasn’t there to please them
or the judge. I was there to do my duty as an American protecting American rights under the
Constitution not to please them or the judge.
Bill: Boy! That took guts! It was sad that so few jurors even had a basic understanding of the issues at
stake or their own Constitution. The system has failed miserably to prepare jurors. No. If the real
purpose of the school system is to dumb down the people to prepare them for the New World Order in
which we have a huge world government and people have no rights from God, but only rights from
government, the system has been a great success.
Bill: I guess you are right on that one. Thanks for standing your ground, Sam. Did you plan all this?
Sam: I read about my rights as a juror in the Citizen’s Rule Book and I wanted to be on a jury like this. It
was great! I had to bite my tongue during jury selection and all through the trial so I wouldn’t blow my
cover. Once the trial was over, and we went into that room, I was in charge and I knew it. The founders
were very wise to set up a system like this. I’ll try to get on every jury I can for the rest of my life. I love
my country and I want to help put the beast back on the chain. It’s not hard. We I can still turn our
country around, if we hurry!
I hope I can get on a drug case next. The feds have no business using drugs to advance their power base.
That’s a state issue, too. After that, maybe an IRS case to shut them down! Wouldn’t that be great!
Bill: Sounds like a whole new way to look at things.
Sam: No, it’s a return to the old way.
Elijah Green
KENT HOVIND'S LEGAL BATTLE
Several items on this website. We are posting them here because they have become conspicuously absent from DrDino.com and Kent wants the information to get out:
http://www.2peter3.com/court_documents.html
http://www.2peter3.com/court_documents.html
The Hole In the Fence
A Day at Edgefield Prison Camp "The Hole In the Fence"
What a strange place this is! I shake my head in disbelief many times each week over things I see
and hear in here, but today ...well, let me try to explain.
Yesterday, about 9 A.M., the staff called for everyone to go back in the dorm. (Our housing unit
is described in the Nov. 3, 2009, Knee-Mail on www.cseblogs.com "Dear Joyce.") Apparently, they had
discovered that someone had cut a hole in the 10' fence that surrounds our camp's approximately ten
acres. Most camps don't have any fence. They assumed (probably correctly) that someone had cut the
hole to bring in some "contraband" which is typically cigarettes or cell phones. These two items seem to
drive the staff ballistic so, after searching the yard, they ordered everyone out of the dorms for a "shake
-down" to find whatever was brought in the night before.
Apparently, they still didn't find it, so they called us in one by one into one of the four staff
offices to be questioned. They had scripted questions like: "Do you know who cut the hole?" "Did you
see any contraband?" Etc. They must have gotten some leads because at least three guys were taken
out to "the hole" next door while they do "an investigation." One of the guys was Jeff Southerland, from
my unit. He’s the one I asked people to write to since he never got mail. He got over 150 letters! Thanks!
He goes home in 40 days anyway and would still like to get mail in "the hole." ·
Anyway, my "interrogator" was a sweet, godly Christian lady (yes, we do have a FEW of those
working here). After her standard questions, I stuck my neck out and said, "Ma'am, would you like to
know my real opinion about this problem over the hole in the fence?" She very unwisely said, "Yes, Mr.
Hovind. I would."
A Well, being my mild-mannered, non-confrontational, meek, introverted self (I can hear my
wife from 450 miles away saying, "HA!"), I told her the following (with a few afterthoughts thrown in for
good measure):
"Here is my humble, totally unbiased opinion of the problem and the very simple solutions. I
think that the BOP (Bureau of Prisons) and the U.S. Government are mostly to blame for the hole in the
fence and the solutions are quick and easy to implement, but I doubt many staff will agree or even
understand what I have to say.
1. First, let's get back to the organic Constitution of the united States. According to Art. III Sec. 2
cl 3, the trial of all crimes is to be "in the state where the crime occurred." 95% of the men and women
in Federal prisons did not commit any crime on Federal property. They should never have been tried in
Federal court and should not be in Federal prisons at all. Let's scrap the silly overuse of the "commerce
clause" the Feds have used for years to get into everyone's business. The Feds have no business getting
involved in many things they are involved in. Send those 95% home today and they can get their own
cigarettes and cell phone and you won't even need to worry about it. If the states want to lock them up
for their crime, they can, but states typically give out LOTS less time for the same offenses, because they
can't print money to balance their budget. They understand that locking people up COSTS money and
harms families. The Feds however, use this system to MAKE money from the taxpayers and create LOTS
of jobs, like yours. If the Feds only locked up people who really committed crimes on Federal property
(Washington, D.C., military bases, post offices, etc.), all 210,000 now in Federal Prison could be reduced
to just a few thousand, and it would be easier to watch them so they don't cut a hole in the fence. ‘
2. Second, the Feds should get out of the drug war business. There is NO Constitutional or
Scriptural or common sense reason for them to get involved with drugs AT ALL. If the states want to
make drugs a crime, they can, but ALL Federal prisoners in here for drugs should be released. I don't and
won't take drugs, but I can't find any scripture or any logic that should make the use or possession of
ANYTHING a crime-especially at the Federal level. If ALL drugs were legal-like rubber cement is now
nobody would be committing a crime when they "got high" and the cost to get drugs would drop to
near zero and so would the crime rate for drugs. If drug users injure someone or cause property damage
to others, THAT would be a crime that the STATES F could prosecute if they wish. Just doing this would
send 90% of these guys home today and we could lay off 80-90% of law enforcement and prison guards.
Let those who take drugs take them 'til they die and rid the gene code of defective genes. See
www.darwinawards.com. Feds have NO business in a "drug war." See Article 10 of the Bill of Rights.
3. Then, shut down the IRS and get the feds back on a diet imposed by the Constitution. This
makes the income needed to provide services called for in that Constitution about 2% of what they use
now. We could follow the clear taxing guidelines given by the founding fathers. If more is needed,
maybe a Fair Tax or VAT could be considered. The original plan is simple and worked great for 150 years.
All current IRS political prisoners could be released. The current IRS code should be ruled "void for
vagueness" since no human on earth understands it all. Existing copies and all IRS forms and booklets
could be used for fuel to supply power for the whole east coast for years! Letting the people go
mentioned in #1-3 would GREATLY reduce the number of Federal prison lockers to search for
"contraband."
4. Four - For the few real Federal prisoners that remain, let them have 3,000 minutes of phone
time each month rather than the current 300. This 300 minute policy is a major cause of the problem. I
have a wife of 36+ years, three grown married children, five grandchildren, four different attorneys
involved in various parts of our case, and lots of friends around the country. Through no fault or choice
of my own, I was moved 450 miles away from them and am now expected to "maintain close family
ties" (as BOP says they want to promote) on 9+ minutes each day of phone time?! The BOP policies of
"inmates within 500 air miles of home cannot be transferred closer" and "300 minutes of phone time
each month" are causing people to want cell phones. Maybe an illustration or two from history will help:
During WWII, the Japanese captured and imprisoned many thousands of soldiers in Bataan, Philippines,
camps. Thousands had malaria and the Japs refused to give them quinine to treat it. Hundreds were
dying, so the local Philippine people smuggled the drug into the camp in scores of ingenious ways. Were
they good or bad for doing that? When Hitler was starving the Jews, people worked out ways to smuggle
in food. Were they good guys, or bad guys? If your mother was starving or dying of malaria, would you
smuggle stuff in to save her? If people are concerned about their family being destroyed because the
BOP "starves" their contact time with these silly policies, and they bribe a guard to smuggle in a cell
phone, are they good guys, or bad guys? In 1944, the German and Japanese guards were frantic to try to
stop the "smuggling in of contraband items" (i.e., food and medicine). They were very zealous in
"following orders and doing their job," yet in 1945, they were prosecuted as war criminals. Think about
it. Either increase the minutes or just let everyone have a cell phone. Then they won't cut a hole in the
fence to get one. I heard the story about the gang leaders in prison that used a cell phone to order
somebody killed many years ago. That's always the story they tell to explain why they are banned in
prisons today. Ten seconds worth of thought will show that this is a silly reason to ban them. Anyone
could still arrange a "hit" right in the visiting room, through the mail, or obviously on a "contraband" cell
phone. The BOP should quit being so paranoid about them and focus on more important issues.
5. Fifth, sell cigarettes on the commissary and let those few that are dumb enough to want to
put a butt in their mouth do it outside where the rest of us don't have to smell it. Be sure to charge
enough for them so they pay for their own health problems that are sure to develop later. It's not right
to make those of us who take care of our health pay for those who don’t. 70% of all health care costs are
from problems that are self-induced, like drugs, cigarettes, or alcohol. Shut down welfare at the federal
level and scrap this silly national health care idea and let those who hurt themselves willingly pay for it.
See www.darwinawards.c0m again. If they could buy cigarettes, they would not cut a hole in the fence
to get them.
6. Six, GREATLY shorten Federal prison terms! Stop rewarding prosecutors for cases they win
and instead promote them for seeing that justice is done and the Constitution is followed. Make it a
crime for any judge, lawyer on the government payroll in any way, or any government employee
anywhere (including Congress, etc.) to own stock, in or profit in any way from the prison system. They
should not sell or lease land for prisons, sell food, clothing, concession, transportation between prisons,
or even construct prisons or supply utilities. There is quite obviously a conflict of interest when judges or
prosecutors or Senators profit from longer prison terms! Think about it! Let’s also make every judge or
prosecutor or lawmaker and all prison staff at any level spend 30 days locked up every 3 years in
identical conditions that prisoners face daily. This will remind them of exactly what their long sentences
do to families. God’s Word NEVER authorized prison as a form of punishment for crime. Either fine
them, give them a beating, or execute them, depending on the crime. This silly system punishes children
most of` all. Could the real child abusers be the lawmakers, courts, and lawyers?
7. Seventh - Don't punish the entire camp of 450lZj men because one guy cut a hole in the fence.
Take away the guard’s computer and office chair. Have them spend their shift walking around so they
can catch things that happen and only have to punish the offender instead of all of us. It is not
reasonable to blame us for not ratting on people we must live with 168 hours/week and make us stay
inside for 2 days. p 8. Eighth (and last!) - Don't fix the hole in the fence. Tear the fence down! While we
are at it, tear the prison system down. For the above mentioned reasons, America has violated God’s
laws and advice. This system invites abuse from all sides and harms the wrong people—like innocent
children and grandchildren who don't understand I why they can't take walks and naps with Dad and
Grandpa anymore. I fear that our gross disregard for God’s Word will bring on His wrath to our country
soon. If, after conviction, people were at least given the option of having a biblical form of punishment,
costs and problems would drop to near zero. Suppose a man was able to choose 20 lashes (in the court
room so the judge can see what their sentence really does!) or 5 years. I guarantee that 95% would take
the beating, save the taxpayers a fortune and be "deterred" from doing that crime again! The current
system is REALLY EXPENSIVE, seldom works, and hurts the wrong people. Shut it down! I wrote a book about the prison system and how to fix it. I wrote it under the pseudonym "Elijah Green" (a preacher the king hated-who wears green). And that, M'am, is my opinion about the hole in the fence!"
She just nodded and smiled as I walked out.
Epilogue
To make my "Day at Edgefield" even more bizarre, at 3 AM I woke up to go watch the news and answer
mail. A fellow inmate came in and told me that there was a I rumor in our dorm that I had snitched on
Jeff and got him locked up! I have no idea what he got locked up for. He goes home in about 40 days.
I've done nothing but good to him and for him since he came here (including getting him lots of mail and
new friends). I would never snitch on anyone unless they were planning to kill or injure someone and
even then I would probably talk to them first.
Here I am trying to build good relationships with people so I can win them to Christ or influence
them to live for God and one stupid lie like this will now take a long time (if ever) to overcome.
Wow! Let’s see: Nero blamed the Christians for burning Rome so he could kill them and steal
their property. Hitler blamed the Jews for Germany's problems for the same reasons. Stalin, Pol Pot,
Mao Tse Tung, Castro, and hundreds of others down through history did similar things to blame the
wrong people and cover their own crimes.
This has been a very interesting day at Edgefield! I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!
Kent Hovind
Additional Thoughts about the Prison System.
The American prison system is the largest in the world by far. We have 5% of the world's
population, yet 25% of the world's prisoners! To help, you could contact your Congressman or Senator
to make the common sense changes listed below. They have the power to do it NOW. Be sure they
make all changes retroactive to release people currently imprisoned. For some of the suggested
changes, contact Harley Lappin, Director of Federal Bureau of Prisons, FBP 320 1st St NW, Washington,
http://www.2peter3.com/Court_Docs/A%20Day%20at%20Edgefield%20Prison%20Camp.pdf
What a strange place this is! I shake my head in disbelief many times each week over things I see
and hear in here, but today ...well, let me try to explain.
Yesterday, about 9 A.M., the staff called for everyone to go back in the dorm. (Our housing unit
is described in the Nov. 3, 2009, Knee-Mail on www.cseblogs.com "Dear Joyce.") Apparently, they had
discovered that someone had cut a hole in the 10' fence that surrounds our camp's approximately ten
acres. Most camps don't have any fence. They assumed (probably correctly) that someone had cut the
hole to bring in some "contraband" which is typically cigarettes or cell phones. These two items seem to
drive the staff ballistic so, after searching the yard, they ordered everyone out of the dorms for a "shake
-down" to find whatever was brought in the night before.
Apparently, they still didn't find it, so they called us in one by one into one of the four staff
offices to be questioned. They had scripted questions like: "Do you know who cut the hole?" "Did you
see any contraband?" Etc. They must have gotten some leads because at least three guys were taken
out to "the hole" next door while they do "an investigation." One of the guys was Jeff Southerland, from
my unit. He’s the one I asked people to write to since he never got mail. He got over 150 letters! Thanks!
He goes home in 40 days anyway and would still like to get mail in "the hole." ·
Anyway, my "interrogator" was a sweet, godly Christian lady (yes, we do have a FEW of those
working here). After her standard questions, I stuck my neck out and said, "Ma'am, would you like to
know my real opinion about this problem over the hole in the fence?" She very unwisely said, "Yes, Mr.
Hovind. I would."
A Well, being my mild-mannered, non-confrontational, meek, introverted self (I can hear my
wife from 450 miles away saying, "HA!"), I told her the following (with a few afterthoughts thrown in for
good measure):
"Here is my humble, totally unbiased opinion of the problem and the very simple solutions. I
think that the BOP (Bureau of Prisons) and the U.S. Government are mostly to blame for the hole in the
fence and the solutions are quick and easy to implement, but I doubt many staff will agree or even
understand what I have to say.
1. First, let's get back to the organic Constitution of the united States. According to Art. III Sec. 2
cl 3, the trial of all crimes is to be "in the state where the crime occurred." 95% of the men and women
in Federal prisons did not commit any crime on Federal property. They should never have been tried in
Federal court and should not be in Federal prisons at all. Let's scrap the silly overuse of the "commerce
clause" the Feds have used for years to get into everyone's business. The Feds have no business getting
involved in many things they are involved in. Send those 95% home today and they can get their own
cigarettes and cell phone and you won't even need to worry about it. If the states want to lock them up
for their crime, they can, but states typically give out LOTS less time for the same offenses, because they
can't print money to balance their budget. They understand that locking people up COSTS money and
harms families. The Feds however, use this system to MAKE money from the taxpayers and create LOTS
of jobs, like yours. If the Feds only locked up people who really committed crimes on Federal property
(Washington, D.C., military bases, post offices, etc.), all 210,000 now in Federal Prison could be reduced
to just a few thousand, and it would be easier to watch them so they don't cut a hole in the fence. ‘
2. Second, the Feds should get out of the drug war business. There is NO Constitutional or
Scriptural or common sense reason for them to get involved with drugs AT ALL. If the states want to
make drugs a crime, they can, but ALL Federal prisoners in here for drugs should be released. I don't and
won't take drugs, but I can't find any scripture or any logic that should make the use or possession of
ANYTHING a crime-especially at the Federal level. If ALL drugs were legal-like rubber cement is now
nobody would be committing a crime when they "got high" and the cost to get drugs would drop to
near zero and so would the crime rate for drugs. If drug users injure someone or cause property damage
to others, THAT would be a crime that the STATES F could prosecute if they wish. Just doing this would
send 90% of these guys home today and we could lay off 80-90% of law enforcement and prison guards.
Let those who take drugs take them 'til they die and rid the gene code of defective genes. See
www.darwinawards.com. Feds have NO business in a "drug war." See Article 10 of the Bill of Rights.
3. Then, shut down the IRS and get the feds back on a diet imposed by the Constitution. This
makes the income needed to provide services called for in that Constitution about 2% of what they use
now. We could follow the clear taxing guidelines given by the founding fathers. If more is needed,
maybe a Fair Tax or VAT could be considered. The original plan is simple and worked great for 150 years.
All current IRS political prisoners could be released. The current IRS code should be ruled "void for
vagueness" since no human on earth understands it all. Existing copies and all IRS forms and booklets
could be used for fuel to supply power for the whole east coast for years! Letting the people go
mentioned in #1-3 would GREATLY reduce the number of Federal prison lockers to search for
"contraband."
4. Four - For the few real Federal prisoners that remain, let them have 3,000 minutes of phone
time each month rather than the current 300. This 300 minute policy is a major cause of the problem. I
have a wife of 36+ years, three grown married children, five grandchildren, four different attorneys
involved in various parts of our case, and lots of friends around the country. Through no fault or choice
of my own, I was moved 450 miles away from them and am now expected to "maintain close family
ties" (as BOP says they want to promote) on 9+ minutes each day of phone time?! The BOP policies of
"inmates within 500 air miles of home cannot be transferred closer" and "300 minutes of phone time
each month" are causing people to want cell phones. Maybe an illustration or two from history will help:
During WWII, the Japanese captured and imprisoned many thousands of soldiers in Bataan, Philippines,
camps. Thousands had malaria and the Japs refused to give them quinine to treat it. Hundreds were
dying, so the local Philippine people smuggled the drug into the camp in scores of ingenious ways. Were
they good or bad for doing that? When Hitler was starving the Jews, people worked out ways to smuggle
in food. Were they good guys, or bad guys? If your mother was starving or dying of malaria, would you
smuggle stuff in to save her? If people are concerned about their family being destroyed because the
BOP "starves" their contact time with these silly policies, and they bribe a guard to smuggle in a cell
phone, are they good guys, or bad guys? In 1944, the German and Japanese guards were frantic to try to
stop the "smuggling in of contraband items" (i.e., food and medicine). They were very zealous in
"following orders and doing their job," yet in 1945, they were prosecuted as war criminals. Think about
it. Either increase the minutes or just let everyone have a cell phone. Then they won't cut a hole in the
fence to get one. I heard the story about the gang leaders in prison that used a cell phone to order
somebody killed many years ago. That's always the story they tell to explain why they are banned in
prisons today. Ten seconds worth of thought will show that this is a silly reason to ban them. Anyone
could still arrange a "hit" right in the visiting room, through the mail, or obviously on a "contraband" cell
phone. The BOP should quit being so paranoid about them and focus on more important issues.
5. Fifth, sell cigarettes on the commissary and let those few that are dumb enough to want to
put a butt in their mouth do it outside where the rest of us don't have to smell it. Be sure to charge
enough for them so they pay for their own health problems that are sure to develop later. It's not right
to make those of us who take care of our health pay for those who don’t. 70% of all health care costs are
from problems that are self-induced, like drugs, cigarettes, or alcohol. Shut down welfare at the federal
level and scrap this silly national health care idea and let those who hurt themselves willingly pay for it.
See www.darwinawards.c0m again. If they could buy cigarettes, they would not cut a hole in the fence
to get them.
6. Six, GREATLY shorten Federal prison terms! Stop rewarding prosecutors for cases they win
and instead promote them for seeing that justice is done and the Constitution is followed. Make it a
crime for any judge, lawyer on the government payroll in any way, or any government employee
anywhere (including Congress, etc.) to own stock, in or profit in any way from the prison system. They
should not sell or lease land for prisons, sell food, clothing, concession, transportation between prisons,
or even construct prisons or supply utilities. There is quite obviously a conflict of interest when judges or
prosecutors or Senators profit from longer prison terms! Think about it! Let’s also make every judge or
prosecutor or lawmaker and all prison staff at any level spend 30 days locked up every 3 years in
identical conditions that prisoners face daily. This will remind them of exactly what their long sentences
do to families. God’s Word NEVER authorized prison as a form of punishment for crime. Either fine
them, give them a beating, or execute them, depending on the crime. This silly system punishes children
most of` all. Could the real child abusers be the lawmakers, courts, and lawyers?
7. Seventh - Don't punish the entire camp of 450lZj men because one guy cut a hole in the fence.
Take away the guard’s computer and office chair. Have them spend their shift walking around so they
can catch things that happen and only have to punish the offender instead of all of us. It is not
reasonable to blame us for not ratting on people we must live with 168 hours/week and make us stay
inside for 2 days. p 8. Eighth (and last!) - Don't fix the hole in the fence. Tear the fence down! While we
are at it, tear the prison system down. For the above mentioned reasons, America has violated God’s
laws and advice. This system invites abuse from all sides and harms the wrong people—like innocent
children and grandchildren who don't understand I why they can't take walks and naps with Dad and
Grandpa anymore. I fear that our gross disregard for God’s Word will bring on His wrath to our country
soon. If, after conviction, people were at least given the option of having a biblical form of punishment,
costs and problems would drop to near zero. Suppose a man was able to choose 20 lashes (in the court
room so the judge can see what their sentence really does!) or 5 years. I guarantee that 95% would take
the beating, save the taxpayers a fortune and be "deterred" from doing that crime again! The current
system is REALLY EXPENSIVE, seldom works, and hurts the wrong people. Shut it down! I wrote a book about the prison system and how to fix it. I wrote it under the pseudonym "Elijah Green" (a preacher the king hated-who wears green). And that, M'am, is my opinion about the hole in the fence!"
She just nodded and smiled as I walked out.
Epilogue
To make my "Day at Edgefield" even more bizarre, at 3 AM I woke up to go watch the news and answer
mail. A fellow inmate came in and told me that there was a I rumor in our dorm that I had snitched on
Jeff and got him locked up! I have no idea what he got locked up for. He goes home in about 40 days.
I've done nothing but good to him and for him since he came here (including getting him lots of mail and
new friends). I would never snitch on anyone unless they were planning to kill or injure someone and
even then I would probably talk to them first.
Here I am trying to build good relationships with people so I can win them to Christ or influence
them to live for God and one stupid lie like this will now take a long time (if ever) to overcome.
Wow! Let’s see: Nero blamed the Christians for burning Rome so he could kill them and steal
their property. Hitler blamed the Jews for Germany's problems for the same reasons. Stalin, Pol Pot,
Mao Tse Tung, Castro, and hundreds of others down through history did similar things to blame the
wrong people and cover their own crimes.
This has been a very interesting day at Edgefield! I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!
Kent Hovind
Additional Thoughts about the Prison System.
The American prison system is the largest in the world by far. We have 5% of the world's
population, yet 25% of the world's prisoners! To help, you could contact your Congressman or Senator
to make the common sense changes listed below. They have the power to do it NOW. Be sure they
make all changes retroactive to release people currently imprisoned. For some of the suggested
changes, contact Harley Lappin, Director of Federal Bureau of Prisons, FBP 320 1st St NW, Washington,
http://www.2peter3.com/Court_Docs/A%20Day%20at%20Edgefield%20Prison%20Camp.pdf
The real story: Persecution of Hovind.
http://www.2peter3.com/real_story.html
The real story: Persecution of Hovind.
Hovind's views on government, the united States Constitution, income tax, private property, and a number of other items have often made him a subject of attack. Hovind has been accused of alleged assault and battery, declaring false bankruptcy, alleging threats against federal officials, alleged filling of false complaints, failing to get necessary building permits, and various tax-related charges. In 2002, he was charged with one count of felony assault, one count of misdemeanor battery, and one count of burglary with assault/battery. The charges were later dropped by the alleged victim, Hovind's secretary.
On September 13, 2002, Hovind was charged for failure to observe county zoning regulations with respect to Dinosaur Adventure Land. Despite arguments that the owners did not need a permit due to the nature of the building, the park was found in violation of local ordinances.
(In Kent's own words)
Short summary of events in the battle between our ministry and the county:On March 29, 2000 I, Kent E Hovind, was peacefully obeying the command of my Lord Jesus Christ, the Creator and Owner of the earth, by conducting the various aspects of our ministry when Escambia County building inspector Rene Pelotte and an assistant came onto our church property, in their official capacity, without invitation and in direct violation of our clearly posted "notice."Rene and her assistant entered one of our buildings and proceeded to ask questions about whether we had acquired Escambia County's permission to build the science building on the property. One of our 30 staff members called me out to the building where I met with the inspectors. I told them we have nothing to hide and are doing nothing illegal or unsafe, but they were not to return in an official capacity unless they could prove they had jurisdiction over our church. I then gave Rene a copy of the posted notice, which explains the laws, and told her that we were a church ministry and that she had no jurisdiction on church property. When she indicated she disagreed, I told her that she would have to leave immediately unless she could prove she had jurisdiction. I explained to her that the Bible said Jesus was the head of the church and civil government had no authority. The first amendment to the Constitution of the United States and the Florida statutes are very clear on this matter also, as well as the Religious Freedoms Restoration Act.I also told her that there was a long history of government rulers attempting to regulate the church of Jesus Christ and that since most churches in the last 100 years have become corporations of the state, (which does indeed grant jurisdiction) I could see why she may not understand how the county's regulations did not apply to a true, unregistered, unincorporated church.I told both Rene and her partner that they were welcome to come anytime in their private capacity and we would gladly give them a tour and let any inspectors look at any work we do and even offer advice. We would value their expert opinion and experience. We have nothing to hide and are doing nothing illegal or unsafe. I further told them that they were talking to the wrong person in that Pastor Mooneyhan was the one they needed to talk with if they had any questions concerning this property.A few days later Rene came back in spite of our clearly posted notice to issue a $50 citation to me. I told her I could not sign it since 1) she had no jurisdiction and 2) I was not the pastor. I also told her that she must leave unless she could prove jurisdiction. She said I must contact their office within 72 hrs. We sent a letter and called them within 72 hrs requesting a hearing on this matter, but our requests were ignored. The next thing I heard about the matter was the call from the Sheriff telling me that a warrant had been issued by Judge Patricia Kinsey for my arrest! I never did see a copy of the warrant, even though I asked for it several times. I went down to the jail and was booked like a criminal, posted bail, and went home the same day.I have met with the county officials several times to try to resolve this conflict. I told them, "The question at issue is a simple one: Does the Escambia County, Florida civil government have jurisdiction over a Church of the Sovereign God of the universe?" We are not the aggressors in this case. We were simply trying to serve the Lord and the county stuck its nose where it has no business. (Churches that are 501c3 corporations cannot get out of the permitting process.)Disney gets no permits and allows no county or state inspections. In 1967, the Florida Legislature granted Disney autonomy through Chapter 67-764 Laws of Florida. This information is also available in Chapter 163.167 Florida Statutes, and in particular, subsection 9, which grants Reedy Creek (i.e. Disney) the same powers and duties as any other Florida county or municipality. See www.state.fl.us/rcid/. The Amish never get permits or inspections of their buildings in any state, including Florida. They have a long history of maintaining their sovereign status, as do the Anabaptists. It seems like this same battle needs to be fought every generation so Caesar can be reminded where his power stops.We are not asking for an "exemption." This would imply the state has jurisdiction. We are simply asking them to admit they have no jurisdiction over the Lord's church. As a church of the Lord Jesus Christ, we answer to a much higher authority than Escambia County. We are not lawless. We believe everyone, including the government, should obey the laws of the land unless they are in violation of God's Laws. Our buildings are safe. At our expense we hired a state licensed electrician to inspect our electrical system to insure it was safe and would meet or surpass the county's electrical codes. We think the state's electrical codes are an excellent standard to insure safety and we read and follow them. We also had two certified engineers inspect our building. They stated in writing that the building is safe. If the inspectors were truly concerned about safety, they would have accepted our invitation (extended five times) to come in their private capacity and look at our work. It!is obvious that safety is not the issue. The real issue is one of the state controlling the Lord's church.For nearly 2000 years, it has been the conviction of Christians that Jesus is the head of the church and the state has no jurisdiction over the Lord's church. Millions of Christians in the early centuries died rather than submit the Lord's church to Caesar. See Foxes Book of Martyrs! It has only been in the last 100 years or so that many have bowed the knee to make Caesar the head of their church. See: www.hushmoney.org or order the book, In Caesar's Grip ($15) from CSE for more. The Amish object to (and never obtain) building permits for similar religious reasons and Disneyworld in Florida never gets county permits. We are a peace loving people who simply wish to serve the Lord. We cannot ask a lower authority like the civil government for permission to do what God has called us to do. If we did, how could we object later if Caesar asked to approve our teachings or make us hire people who violate clear scriptures? Our buildings are safe and built up to or beyond the code.We are not looking to do anything illegal. Ever since 1999, when this property was given to the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ, we have not knowingly submitted God's church to any lesser authority. Our decision to build without permits from the county was based on our understanding of the Bible and, to a lesser degree, the constitutions of the united States and the State of Florida.The history of government trying to regulate people peacefully trying to obey God's commands is a long and bloody one. Pharaoh tried to tell Moses how, when and where he could obey God in Exodus 8:28 "And Pharaoh said, I will let you go, that ye may sacrifice to the LORD your God in the wilderness; only ye shall not go very far away" (attempting to regulate): "entreat for me." Ex. 10:11 "Not so: go now ye that are men," (attempting to regulate) "and serve the LORD; for that ye did desire." Ex. 10:24 "And Pharaoh called unto Moses, and said, Go ye, serve the LORD; only let your flocks and your herds be stayed:" (attempting to regulate) "let your little ones also go with you." After much frustration to Moses and great cost to himself and his domain, in Ex. 12:31 Pharaoh finally got the message and let them go. Then he changed his mind again! (slow learner!)Ever since Jesus established His church the civil magistrates have resented not having authority. The followers of Jesus have been persecuted, tortured, and burned by the civil magistrates to attempt to make them surrender the authority of the church to Caesar.The disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ were constantly harassed by government officials who tried to regulate their lives as they obeyed the Lord. From Acts 4 through 28, all but 3 chapters record examples of this. We see from Acts 16 how we are to handle ourselves when this happens. In verse 19 the leaders saw they would lose money (just as county officials see permits as a source of income), so Paul and Silas were beaten and imprisoned. In verse 37, we see that Paul and Silas demanded a public apology from the rulers and magistrates for their illegal actions. We have filed our own suit against the county to force them to admit they have no jurisdiction, leave us alone, pay for the damages they have caused our ministry and apologize for their treatment of God's servants.Even though most other "churches" in the county and Pensacola Christian College see nothing wrong with bowing to Caesar and asking permission of the heathen to obey God's commands we cannot and will not. Just as there are two types of churches in Russia (the state regulated church and the free church), so it is in America.The record will show that the property at 29 Cummings Road has been built on several times in the past and the proper permits and inspections were obtained while the property was not owned by Faith Baptist Fellowship. In 1999, the entire property was given to Faith Baptist Fellowship, which is not a creation or corporation of the state of Florida or any other state. Since that time, this ministry has never asked for any permits from the state or county.If it is the money they want for the permit fees, we are willing to give that if needed. If it is control they want, we are not permitted by our Lord to grant this.I do not wish to be in a legal battle. I only wish to serve my Lord Jesus Christ and preserve my rights, and those of our church, as our Anabaptist forefathers fought and died to preserve for us. Some have said, "Wouldn't it be easier just to pay the $50 permit?" Ask that question to the three Hebrew children who wouldn't bow to the Babylonian idol. Read your Bible and see how much was written from jail for reasons like this. Control is the issue.We praise God for sending us Maury Adkins to help us in the bewildering world of legalese. Please pray for him, as his health situation is not good. An old injury to his stomach in a car accident years ago has now become a cancerous hernia requiring special surgery in the next few weeks.When 7000 of the best and brightest young men were taken captive into Babylon in Daniel's day, only three refused to bow a short time later. See Daniel 3:12. I'm sure the 6997 had good excuses for why they disobeyed the first of God's ten commandments they had been brought up with and I'm sure they thought the three not kissing the dirt that day made a bad choice, but we only know the names of those three today. They were right and the 6997 were wrong! My job is to study God's Word, try to obey it and leave the results up to God. Just as Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego did not know what would happen when they were thrown into the furnace, we do not know the outcome of our stand. Please pray that God will turn the hearts of those involved. Governor Bush is very involved in our case and may rule in our favor.We have already spent a small fortune defending ourselves in this costly legal battle. We have no intention of ever giving in. We are convinced that we are on the side of both the Lord and the law. Brethren, pray for us. What the king does or threatens to do I cannot control. I only know I cannot bow and I pray I will not burn! The battle has been costly and we would welcome any support from those who love the Lord's work and freedom.Please help us by praying for us."
Hovind has been accused of alleged assault and battery, declaring false bankruptcy, alleging threats against federal officials, alleged filling of false complaints, failing to get necessary building permits, and various tax-related charges. In 2002, he was charged with one count of felony assault, one count of misdemeanor battery, and one count of burglary with assault/battery. The charges were later dropped by the alleged victim, Hovind's secretary.
On September 13, 2002, Hovind was charged for failure to observe county zoning regulations with respect to Dinosaur Adventure Land. Despite arguments that the owners did not need a permit due to the nature of the building, the park was found in violation of local ordinances. On June 5, 2006, Hovind pled nolo contendere as charged to three counts: constructing a building without a permit, refusing to sign a citation (Case # 2001 MM 023489 A) and violating the county building code (Case # 2002 MM 026670 A). Hovind was ordered to pay $225.00 per count. The plea brought an end to the 5-year criminal (misdemeanor) court battle over a $50.00 building permit. The 4-year civil court battle with the county remains open (Case # 2002 CA 000149) Hovind estimates he spent $40,000 in legal expenses on the case. On June 19, 2006, the delinquent 2003-2005 property taxes / penalties for Dinosaur Adventure Land were paid in an amount of $10,402.64.
On May 13, 1998, Hovind and his wife filled a document called "Power of Attorney and Revocation of Signature" with the Escambia County Clerk of Courts. The document reads, in part: "I/we do hereby revoke and make void... all signatures on any instruments...". The Hovinds said they had signed government documents "due to the use of various elements of fraud and misrepresentations, duress, coercion, under perjury, mistake, 'bankruptcy'."
In the document, the Hovinds argue that Social Security is a ponzi scheme and is not mandatory. The Hovinds described the United States Government as a "bankrupt corporate government", and said they were renouncing their United States citizenship and Social Security numbers.
In 2002 Hovind unsuccessfully sued the IRS for harassment. In 2004, IRS agents raided Hovind's home and business to confiscate financial records. IRS agent Scott Schneider said Hovind's businesses did not have a proper business license, nor tax-exempt status. The Associated Press quoted Schneider as saying "Since 1997, Hovind has engaged in financial transactions indicating sources of income and has made deposits to bank accounts well in excess of $1 million per year during some of these years, which would require the filing of federal income taxes." On June 3, 2004, the IRS issued tax liens of $504,957.24 against Hovind, his son and their ministry due to previous legal matters and accusations.
On July 7, 2006, the United States Tax Court (Docket number 011894-05L) found that Hovind was deficient in paying his federal income taxes in tax years 1995-97 in the amount of $504,957.24. The Tax Court found that the IRS had a valid lien on Hovind's property in that amount. The IRS is currently levying against Hovind's property to satisfy his unpaid tax liabilities. In the Memorandum Opinion the judge noted that Hovind's "organizational structure . . . was based on various questionable trust documents purchased from Glen Stoll, an alleged promoter of tax avoidance schemes." The judge also said that, Hovind's defense was based on "bizarre arguments" and "some of which constitute tax protestor arguments involving excise taxes and the alleged '100% voluntary' nature of the income tax."
After the indictment, Hovind maintained his innocence. "I still don't understand what I'm being charged for and who is charging me," he said. Judge Davis replied that the government adequately explained the allegations and the defendant understands the charges "whether you want to admit it or not." An October 17th trial date (originally September 5th) was set for Kent Hovind and his co-defendant wife, Jo, who faces 44 charges. With his attorney, Public Defender Kafahni Nkrumah, Hovind stated that he did not recognize the government's right to try him on tax-fraud charges. At first he attempted to enter a plea of "subornation of false muster," but then entered a not guilty plea "under duress" when the judge offered to enter a plea for him.
At the time of the arrest, Magistrate Davis "went over Kent Hovind's arguments, ... confiscated his passport and his firearms following a search of his residence. " Hovind argued that he needed his passport to continue his evangelism work. He said he had planned a ministry trip to South Africa the following month. But Davis sided with Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Heldmyer, who argued that "like-minded people" might secret Hovind away if he left the country.
In relation to the guns, Davis said "ownership was not the issue." Reports of weapons in Hovind home were confiscated for fear that "the arrest of the defendants in this case could pose some danger to agents." More than a half-dozen firearms were seized at the Hovind's home.
At the time of the indictment, the Hovind's defense said that although around 30 people worked for the ministry, all of whom received remuneration in cash, none of them were employees. According to Hovind, "Nobody's an employee, and they all know that when they come. They come, they work ... The laborer is worthy of his hire -- we try to take the purely scriptural approach. We do the best we can with helping people with their family needs. There are no employees here."
The trial concluded on November 1st with the defense deciding not to present a case. After closing arguments were presented on November 2nd, the jury deliberated three hours before finding the Hovinds guilty on all counts. The Pensacola News Journal noted, "The saddest thing: Had they cooperated with the agents, they probably wouldn't be worrying about prison sentences now."
KH
The real story: Persecution of Hovind.
Hovind's views on government, the united States Constitution, income tax, private property, and a number of other items have often made him a subject of attack. Hovind has been accused of alleged assault and battery, declaring false bankruptcy, alleging threats against federal officials, alleged filling of false complaints, failing to get necessary building permits, and various tax-related charges. In 2002, he was charged with one count of felony assault, one count of misdemeanor battery, and one count of burglary with assault/battery. The charges were later dropped by the alleged victim, Hovind's secretary.
On September 13, 2002, Hovind was charged for failure to observe county zoning regulations with respect to Dinosaur Adventure Land. Despite arguments that the owners did not need a permit due to the nature of the building, the park was found in violation of local ordinances.
(In Kent's own words)
Short summary of events in the battle between our ministry and the county:On March 29, 2000 I, Kent E Hovind, was peacefully obeying the command of my Lord Jesus Christ, the Creator and Owner of the earth, by conducting the various aspects of our ministry when Escambia County building inspector Rene Pelotte and an assistant came onto our church property, in their official capacity, without invitation and in direct violation of our clearly posted "notice."Rene and her assistant entered one of our buildings and proceeded to ask questions about whether we had acquired Escambia County's permission to build the science building on the property. One of our 30 staff members called me out to the building where I met with the inspectors. I told them we have nothing to hide and are doing nothing illegal or unsafe, but they were not to return in an official capacity unless they could prove they had jurisdiction over our church. I then gave Rene a copy of the posted notice, which explains the laws, and told her that we were a church ministry and that she had no jurisdiction on church property. When she indicated she disagreed, I told her that she would have to leave immediately unless she could prove she had jurisdiction. I explained to her that the Bible said Jesus was the head of the church and civil government had no authority. The first amendment to the Constitution of the United States and the Florida statutes are very clear on this matter also, as well as the Religious Freedoms Restoration Act.I also told her that there was a long history of government rulers attempting to regulate the church of Jesus Christ and that since most churches in the last 100 years have become corporations of the state, (which does indeed grant jurisdiction) I could see why she may not understand how the county's regulations did not apply to a true, unregistered, unincorporated church.I told both Rene and her partner that they were welcome to come anytime in their private capacity and we would gladly give them a tour and let any inspectors look at any work we do and even offer advice. We would value their expert opinion and experience. We have nothing to hide and are doing nothing illegal or unsafe. I further told them that they were talking to the wrong person in that Pastor Mooneyhan was the one they needed to talk with if they had any questions concerning this property.A few days later Rene came back in spite of our clearly posted notice to issue a $50 citation to me. I told her I could not sign it since 1) she had no jurisdiction and 2) I was not the pastor. I also told her that she must leave unless she could prove jurisdiction. She said I must contact their office within 72 hrs. We sent a letter and called them within 72 hrs requesting a hearing on this matter, but our requests were ignored. The next thing I heard about the matter was the call from the Sheriff telling me that a warrant had been issued by Judge Patricia Kinsey for my arrest! I never did see a copy of the warrant, even though I asked for it several times. I went down to the jail and was booked like a criminal, posted bail, and went home the same day.I have met with the county officials several times to try to resolve this conflict. I told them, "The question at issue is a simple one: Does the Escambia County, Florida civil government have jurisdiction over a Church of the Sovereign God of the universe?" We are not the aggressors in this case. We were simply trying to serve the Lord and the county stuck its nose where it has no business. (Churches that are 501c3 corporations cannot get out of the permitting process.)Disney gets no permits and allows no county or state inspections. In 1967, the Florida Legislature granted Disney autonomy through Chapter 67-764 Laws of Florida. This information is also available in Chapter 163.167 Florida Statutes, and in particular, subsection 9, which grants Reedy Creek (i.e. Disney) the same powers and duties as any other Florida county or municipality. See www.state.fl.us/rcid/. The Amish never get permits or inspections of their buildings in any state, including Florida. They have a long history of maintaining their sovereign status, as do the Anabaptists. It seems like this same battle needs to be fought every generation so Caesar can be reminded where his power stops.We are not asking for an "exemption." This would imply the state has jurisdiction. We are simply asking them to admit they have no jurisdiction over the Lord's church. As a church of the Lord Jesus Christ, we answer to a much higher authority than Escambia County. We are not lawless. We believe everyone, including the government, should obey the laws of the land unless they are in violation of God's Laws. Our buildings are safe. At our expense we hired a state licensed electrician to inspect our electrical system to insure it was safe and would meet or surpass the county's electrical codes. We think the state's electrical codes are an excellent standard to insure safety and we read and follow them. We also had two certified engineers inspect our building. They stated in writing that the building is safe. If the inspectors were truly concerned about safety, they would have accepted our invitation (extended five times) to come in their private capacity and look at our work. It!is obvious that safety is not the issue. The real issue is one of the state controlling the Lord's church.For nearly 2000 years, it has been the conviction of Christians that Jesus is the head of the church and the state has no jurisdiction over the Lord's church. Millions of Christians in the early centuries died rather than submit the Lord's church to Caesar. See Foxes Book of Martyrs! It has only been in the last 100 years or so that many have bowed the knee to make Caesar the head of their church. See: www.hushmoney.org or order the book, In Caesar's Grip ($15) from CSE for more. The Amish object to (and never obtain) building permits for similar religious reasons and Disneyworld in Florida never gets county permits. We are a peace loving people who simply wish to serve the Lord. We cannot ask a lower authority like the civil government for permission to do what God has called us to do. If we did, how could we object later if Caesar asked to approve our teachings or make us hire people who violate clear scriptures? Our buildings are safe and built up to or beyond the code.We are not looking to do anything illegal. Ever since 1999, when this property was given to the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ, we have not knowingly submitted God's church to any lesser authority. Our decision to build without permits from the county was based on our understanding of the Bible and, to a lesser degree, the constitutions of the united States and the State of Florida.The history of government trying to regulate people peacefully trying to obey God's commands is a long and bloody one. Pharaoh tried to tell Moses how, when and where he could obey God in Exodus 8:28 "And Pharaoh said, I will let you go, that ye may sacrifice to the LORD your God in the wilderness; only ye shall not go very far away" (attempting to regulate): "entreat for me." Ex. 10:11 "Not so: go now ye that are men," (attempting to regulate) "and serve the LORD; for that ye did desire." Ex. 10:24 "And Pharaoh called unto Moses, and said, Go ye, serve the LORD; only let your flocks and your herds be stayed:" (attempting to regulate) "let your little ones also go with you." After much frustration to Moses and great cost to himself and his domain, in Ex. 12:31 Pharaoh finally got the message and let them go. Then he changed his mind again! (slow learner!)Ever since Jesus established His church the civil magistrates have resented not having authority. The followers of Jesus have been persecuted, tortured, and burned by the civil magistrates to attempt to make them surrender the authority of the church to Caesar.The disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ were constantly harassed by government officials who tried to regulate their lives as they obeyed the Lord. From Acts 4 through 28, all but 3 chapters record examples of this. We see from Acts 16 how we are to handle ourselves when this happens. In verse 19 the leaders saw they would lose money (just as county officials see permits as a source of income), so Paul and Silas were beaten and imprisoned. In verse 37, we see that Paul and Silas demanded a public apology from the rulers and magistrates for their illegal actions. We have filed our own suit against the county to force them to admit they have no jurisdiction, leave us alone, pay for the damages they have caused our ministry and apologize for their treatment of God's servants.Even though most other "churches" in the county and Pensacola Christian College see nothing wrong with bowing to Caesar and asking permission of the heathen to obey God's commands we cannot and will not. Just as there are two types of churches in Russia (the state regulated church and the free church), so it is in America.The record will show that the property at 29 Cummings Road has been built on several times in the past and the proper permits and inspections were obtained while the property was not owned by Faith Baptist Fellowship. In 1999, the entire property was given to Faith Baptist Fellowship, which is not a creation or corporation of the state of Florida or any other state. Since that time, this ministry has never asked for any permits from the state or county.If it is the money they want for the permit fees, we are willing to give that if needed. If it is control they want, we are not permitted by our Lord to grant this.I do not wish to be in a legal battle. I only wish to serve my Lord Jesus Christ and preserve my rights, and those of our church, as our Anabaptist forefathers fought and died to preserve for us. Some have said, "Wouldn't it be easier just to pay the $50 permit?" Ask that question to the three Hebrew children who wouldn't bow to the Babylonian idol. Read your Bible and see how much was written from jail for reasons like this. Control is the issue.We praise God for sending us Maury Adkins to help us in the bewildering world of legalese. Please pray for him, as his health situation is not good. An old injury to his stomach in a car accident years ago has now become a cancerous hernia requiring special surgery in the next few weeks.When 7000 of the best and brightest young men were taken captive into Babylon in Daniel's day, only three refused to bow a short time later. See Daniel 3:12. I'm sure the 6997 had good excuses for why they disobeyed the first of God's ten commandments they had been brought up with and I'm sure they thought the three not kissing the dirt that day made a bad choice, but we only know the names of those three today. They were right and the 6997 were wrong! My job is to study God's Word, try to obey it and leave the results up to God. Just as Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego did not know what would happen when they were thrown into the furnace, we do not know the outcome of our stand. Please pray that God will turn the hearts of those involved. Governor Bush is very involved in our case and may rule in our favor.We have already spent a small fortune defending ourselves in this costly legal battle. We have no intention of ever giving in. We are convinced that we are on the side of both the Lord and the law. Brethren, pray for us. What the king does or threatens to do I cannot control. I only know I cannot bow and I pray I will not burn! The battle has been costly and we would welcome any support from those who love the Lord's work and freedom.Please help us by praying for us."
Hovind has been accused of alleged assault and battery, declaring false bankruptcy, alleging threats against federal officials, alleged filling of false complaints, failing to get necessary building permits, and various tax-related charges. In 2002, he was charged with one count of felony assault, one count of misdemeanor battery, and one count of burglary with assault/battery. The charges were later dropped by the alleged victim, Hovind's secretary.
On September 13, 2002, Hovind was charged for failure to observe county zoning regulations with respect to Dinosaur Adventure Land. Despite arguments that the owners did not need a permit due to the nature of the building, the park was found in violation of local ordinances. On June 5, 2006, Hovind pled nolo contendere as charged to three counts: constructing a building without a permit, refusing to sign a citation (Case # 2001 MM 023489 A) and violating the county building code (Case # 2002 MM 026670 A). Hovind was ordered to pay $225.00 per count. The plea brought an end to the 5-year criminal (misdemeanor) court battle over a $50.00 building permit. The 4-year civil court battle with the county remains open (Case # 2002 CA 000149) Hovind estimates he spent $40,000 in legal expenses on the case. On June 19, 2006, the delinquent 2003-2005 property taxes / penalties for Dinosaur Adventure Land were paid in an amount of $10,402.64.
Do you believe 100 or 200 years ago, anyone ever
dreamed of having to get a permit to do anything on their own property?
The thought would have been laughable! What has happened to America?
Most people can't put up a fence, build a patio or even cut down a tree
without paying for a permit.
As Thomas Jefferson once said; "if the American people ever allow private banks to control the issue of their money, first by inflation and then by deflation, the banks and corporations that will grow up around them will deprive the people of their property until their children will wakeup homeless on the continent their fathers conquered."
Hovind's ministry is not an internal revenue code 501(c)(3)
organization. In 1996, Hovind unsuccessfully filed for bankruptcy. The
court claimed that he lied about his possessions and income. Hovind
pleaded that as a minister of God everything he owns belonged to God and
he should not be forced to pay illegal taxes to the United States on
the money he received for doing God's work citing US tax code
§508(c)(1)(a). The court ordered him to pay the money and upheld the IRS
determination that Hovind's claim "was filed in bad faith for the sole
purpose of avoiding payment of federal income taxes." In the ruling, the
judge called Hovind's arguments "patently absurd". The judge also noted
that "the IRS has no record of the debtor ever having filed a federal
income tax return", although this was not the court's reason for denying
the bankruptcy claim.As Thomas Jefferson once said; "if the American people ever allow private banks to control the issue of their money, first by inflation and then by deflation, the banks and corporations that will grow up around them will deprive the people of their property until their children will wakeup homeless on the continent their fathers conquered."
On May 13, 1998, Hovind and his wife filled a document called "Power of Attorney and Revocation of Signature" with the Escambia County Clerk of Courts. The document reads, in part: "I/we do hereby revoke and make void... all signatures on any instruments...". The Hovinds said they had signed government documents "due to the use of various elements of fraud and misrepresentations, duress, coercion, under perjury, mistake, 'bankruptcy'."
In the document, the Hovinds argue that Social Security is a ponzi scheme and is not mandatory. The Hovinds described the United States Government as a "bankrupt corporate government", and said they were renouncing their United States citizenship and Social Security numbers.
In 2002 Hovind unsuccessfully sued the IRS for harassment. In 2004, IRS agents raided Hovind's home and business to confiscate financial records. IRS agent Scott Schneider said Hovind's businesses did not have a proper business license, nor tax-exempt status. The Associated Press quoted Schneider as saying "Since 1997, Hovind has engaged in financial transactions indicating sources of income and has made deposits to bank accounts well in excess of $1 million per year during some of these years, which would require the filing of federal income taxes." On June 3, 2004, the IRS issued tax liens of $504,957.24 against Hovind, his son and their ministry due to previous legal matters and accusations.
On July 7, 2006, the United States Tax Court (Docket number 011894-05L) found that Hovind was deficient in paying his federal income taxes in tax years 1995-97 in the amount of $504,957.24. The Tax Court found that the IRS had a valid lien on Hovind's property in that amount. The IRS is currently levying against Hovind's property to satisfy his unpaid tax liabilities. In the Memorandum Opinion the judge noted that Hovind's "organizational structure . . . was based on various questionable trust documents purchased from Glen Stoll, an alleged promoter of tax avoidance schemes." The judge also said that, Hovind's defense was based on "bizarre arguments" and "some of which constitute tax protestor arguments involving excise taxes and the alleged '100% voluntary' nature of the income tax."
As Dwight E. Avis, former head of the Alcohol and
Tobacco Tax Division of the IRS, said testifying before a House Ways and
Means subcommittee in 1953; "Let me point this out now. Your income tax
is 100 percent voluntary tax, and your liquor tax is 100 percent
enforced tax. Now, the situation is as different as night and day.
Consequently, your same rules just will not apply"
On July 11, 2006, Hovind was charged in the United States District Court
for the Northern District of Florida in Pensacola with twelve counts of
willful failure to collect, account for, and pay over Federal income
taxes and FICA taxes under 26 U.S.C. § 7202, which states that "Any
person required under this title to collect, account for, and pay over
any tax imposed by this title who willfully fails to collect or
truthfully account for and pay over such tax shall, in addition to other
penalties provided by law, be guilty of a felony and, upon conviction
thereof, shall be fined not more than $10,000, or imprisoned not more
than 5 years, or both, together with the costs of prosecution."
To better understand the income tax and future of America, it is highly recommended that you view the video America: Freedom to Fascism
by Aaron Russo. In the film Russo interviews former IRS agents, jurors,
lawyers and others to prove the illegality of the federal income tax
and "federal" reserve.
Hovind was also charged with forty-five counts of knowingly structuring
transactions in Federally-insured financial institutions to evade the
reporting requirements of 31 U.S.C.§ 5313(a), in violation of 31 U.S.C. §
5324, 18 U.S.C. § 2, 31 C.F.R. sec. 103.11, and one count of corruptly
endeavoring to obstruct and impede the administration of the internal
revenue laws under 26 U.S.C. § 7212. The withdrawals, totaling $430,500,
were placed in 2001 and 2002.
Please note that Hovind did not break the law. He was
charged with "structuring" his financial withdrawals in such a way as to
"evade" the law requiring reporting of transactions of over $10,000.
Suppose you were pulled over for going 55 miles and hour in a 55 zone. The officer says, "I have clocked you everyday for a month going 55, so I am stopping you for speeding. I know you were purposely going 55 to avoid going over the speed limit. So since you were "structuring" your driving habits to deliberately "evade" the speeding regulations, I am going to give you a ticket."
What has our country come to?
The government charged that Hovind falsely listed the IRS as his only
creditor in his bankruptcy, filed a false and frivolous lawsuit against
the IRS in which he demanded damages for criminal trespass, made threats
of harm to those investigating him and to those who might consider
cooperating with the investigation, filed a false complaint against IRS
agents investigating him, filed a false criminal complaint against IRS
special agents (criminal investigators), and destroyed records.Suppose you were pulled over for going 55 miles and hour in a 55 zone. The officer says, "I have clocked you everyday for a month going 55, so I am stopping you for speeding. I know you were purposely going 55 to avoid going over the speed limit. So since you were "structuring" your driving habits to deliberately "evade" the speeding regulations, I am going to give you a ticket."
What has our country come to?
After the indictment, Hovind maintained his innocence. "I still don't understand what I'm being charged for and who is charging me," he said. Judge Davis replied that the government adequately explained the allegations and the defendant understands the charges "whether you want to admit it or not." An October 17th trial date (originally September 5th) was set for Kent Hovind and his co-defendant wife, Jo, who faces 44 charges. With his attorney, Public Defender Kafahni Nkrumah, Hovind stated that he did not recognize the government's right to try him on tax-fraud charges. At first he attempted to enter a plea of "subornation of false muster," but then entered a not guilty plea "under duress" when the judge offered to enter a plea for him.
At the time of the arrest, Magistrate Davis "went over Kent Hovind's arguments, ... confiscated his passport and his firearms following a search of his residence. " Hovind argued that he needed his passport to continue his evangelism work. He said he had planned a ministry trip to South Africa the following month. But Davis sided with Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Heldmyer, who argued that "like-minded people" might secret Hovind away if he left the country.
In relation to the guns, Davis said "ownership was not the issue." Reports of weapons in Hovind home were confiscated for fear that "the arrest of the defendants in this case could pose some danger to agents." More than a half-dozen firearms were seized at the Hovind's home.
What has happened to the second amendment? The founding
fathers knew that the preservation of liberty in America would be
dependent on citzens owning firearms to defend themselves and their
country from invaders - foreign or domestic.
Also, during an IRS raid at the home, agents confiscated cash amounting to $42,000.At the time of the indictment, the Hovind's defense said that although around 30 people worked for the ministry, all of whom received remuneration in cash, none of them were employees. According to Hovind, "Nobody's an employee, and they all know that when they come. They come, they work ... The laborer is worthy of his hire -- we try to take the purely scriptural approach. We do the best we can with helping people with their family needs. There are no employees here."
Hovind was referring to biblical principles that our
country was founded on. Two hundred years ago a man could be paid by
barter or any arrangement made between the parties. What has happened to
America?
On October 21, 2006, the trial (case # 3:06cr83/MCR) began in
which Hovind hoped to persuade the jury that he was innocent of any
criminal charges. After the first week of testimony the trial was
postponed due to a defense lawyer's illness. Former and current
workers, IRS agents, a bank employee, and a lawyer of a non-profit
Christian organization testified in the trial. Workers testified that
they did punch time cards, received vacation and sick days; while others
testified against Hovind claiming he boasted that he could "beat" the
tax system. Only the local Pensacola paper covered the trail.The trial concluded on November 1st with the defense deciding not to present a case. After closing arguments were presented on November 2nd, the jury deliberated three hours before finding the Hovinds guilty on all counts. The Pensacola News Journal noted, "The saddest thing: Had they cooperated with the agents, they probably wouldn't be worrying about prison sentences now."
KH
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
The Story Behind the Dissertation
If it hadn't happened to me and anyone else was telling the story I would not believe it. I knew bureaucracies were often called "bungling" but this is classic!
Let's start at the beginning. Ever since I have been locked up I have tried to use this prison time for the glory of God. When Paul was locked up (a lot!), he always used the time to write, study and read (see II Tim. 4:13). Prison really is a great place to do those things. I don't have a lot of work to do (I teach GED math and tutor several guys in math), someone else cleans the floors, does the landscaping and they call me when meals are ready! What a life!
Anyway, (no 's' Marlissa) though I'm sure I have wasted plenty of the time I could have used more wisely, I have not wasted all of it. I've read about 600 books, finished a Masters and a Doctorate in Theology and finished all the course work for another Doctorate in Biblical Ministries. All I lack is the dissertation. That's where this bizarre story comes in.
For about 2 1/2 years I worked diligently to finish all the courses needed for this degree. They were great and I learned a lot! I chose the 2 Peter 3 theme to do the dissertation on. In that passage Peter says the scoffers in the last days would be "willingly ignorant" of three things: 1-The Creation, 2-The Flood, and 3-The Coming Judgment. Well, I had spent thousands of hours studying and preaching on the first two but honestly had sort of avoided the third one because I never felt comfortable teaching on a topic I was not clear on myself. Well, that has changed!
I divided my dissertation into 7 main sections: 1-The Creation, 2-The Flood, 3-Daniel's Amazing Prophecies, 4-The Tribulation and Second Coming, 5-The 1,000 Year Millennial Kingdom (Parts 4 and 5 each have 5 subsections A-E), 6-The Great White Throne Judgment and 7-What Should We DO? Because the BOP typewriter I was using in Jesup, GA had very limited memory, I had to do it in sections and then delete the work to make room for the next section. I knew this would mean some extra work to "seam it together", but that could be done last. William Miller in Jesup came to visit me nearly every week (what a blessing!). He is a computer genius and graciously agreed to type up the entire dissertation and insert pictures as needed. He was mailing it back and forth to me for several months for corrections, additions, etc. when I was suddenly moved here to Florence, CO due to falsely alleged "overcrowding" in Jesup.
Once I got here, I notified William so he could send me the a-a-a-almost finished dissertation for one final edit and polish before submitting it to get my degree. He spent $20 to mail it here and the problem began! You would have thought I had shot a sacred cow or something! I got a note from the mail room stating it had been sent back because inmates cannot receive a book they wrote themselves. I went to talk with the mail room lady and explained it was a college dissertation not a book. She said, "Then you must get it sent in through the education department."
Since I work in education I thought it would be no problem. I asked my supervisor if I could have it sent in and she said, "BOP policy is that it can only be sent in via education if it is for a course you took through the BOP. Since it is not but is religious you must go through the chaplain."
I went to the chaplain and explained the problem. He said he would look into it. He has been most helpful and is actually a God fearing man and a good preacher. He made a few calls and wrote a few emails to various people and told me it should be fine now so I told William to resend it. William spent another $10 to send 1/3 of it for a test. A week later the mail room lady called me in to say the legal department told her I cannot have it since education did not approve it! She said she would hold it for a few days so I could get approval.
So-o-o-o-o, I went back to a very exasperated education director and her boss to explain my dilemma. They said they were bound by policy and could not authorize it through them. That does not mean I can't have it--just that they cannot say it is OK. I went to one of the two case managers here at the camp and he was most helpful. He said, "I will authorize it to come in as a package." and signed a package authorization form. He told me to have a counselor sign it and the problem should be solved. HA! I went to the counselor in my dorm and he took away the form and said he would check in to it. (This was yesterday, Sunday, Oct. 23.)
This morning he called me into his office and was obviously upset. He said, "I don't know what you are trying to do Hovind but you have been told by education and by legal that you cannot have it. I told the mail room to send it back today."
I said, "Sir, that is not correct. I have never been told I cannot have it. I have only been told I cannot get it until it is authorized by the right person. I've been trying to do just that for over two months now. I never asked anyone to get involved in this. It's just a college dissertation and I cannot understand what the problem is!"
So-o-o-o-o, here are my choices as I see them now:
1. Forget it and stop trying and wait till I am out to finish. I feel strongly the Lord does NOT want me to do that. Nehemiah didn't stop building the wall because he was opposed. (Ditto Moses because Pharaoh said no--9 times!)
2. Have William send it in 6 pages at a time so it is not a "package."
3. Keep trying higher staff and risk angering the petty ones who feel threatened when their decisions are overridden. The petty ones can be very vindictive!
4. Have William send it in as is to the University even though it needs a final polish. This will get it done, produce a slightly lower grade and cause the atheists to pick at details (spelling, grammar, etc.) and miss the bigger picture of the message.
5. Have William post it on www.2peter3.com and various other blogs as is to get the message out and help people prepare for what is coming soon. I can then modify, tweak, edit, etc. the dissertation over the next few years to improve and polish it before it goes to book format. This is what I did with my seminar series 20 years ago. I knew the material would be helpful but also needed LOTS of polishing! I decided to produce the series even though it was poor quality graphics and then re-tape as we could. Over the years we have re-taped the seminar series about 20 times!
I've decided it will NEVER be right but giving soldiers some ammo (even if scratched) is better than NONE! Ditto with the dissertation. While we plow through the silly bureaucrats let's get it "out there." Please notify me of any errors you find. Please be understanding!
Kent Hovind
Let's start at the beginning. Ever since I have been locked up I have tried to use this prison time for the glory of God. When Paul was locked up (a lot!), he always used the time to write, study and read (see II Tim. 4:13). Prison really is a great place to do those things. I don't have a lot of work to do (I teach GED math and tutor several guys in math), someone else cleans the floors, does the landscaping and they call me when meals are ready! What a life!
Anyway, (no 's' Marlissa) though I'm sure I have wasted plenty of the time I could have used more wisely, I have not wasted all of it. I've read about 600 books, finished a Masters and a Doctorate in Theology and finished all the course work for another Doctorate in Biblical Ministries. All I lack is the dissertation. That's where this bizarre story comes in.
For about 2 1/2 years I worked diligently to finish all the courses needed for this degree. They were great and I learned a lot! I chose the 2 Peter 3 theme to do the dissertation on. In that passage Peter says the scoffers in the last days would be "willingly ignorant" of three things: 1-The Creation, 2-The Flood, and 3-The Coming Judgment. Well, I had spent thousands of hours studying and preaching on the first two but honestly had sort of avoided the third one because I never felt comfortable teaching on a topic I was not clear on myself. Well, that has changed!
I divided my dissertation into 7 main sections: 1-The Creation, 2-The Flood, 3-Daniel's Amazing Prophecies, 4-The Tribulation and Second Coming, 5-The 1,000 Year Millennial Kingdom (Parts 4 and 5 each have 5 subsections A-E), 6-The Great White Throne Judgment and 7-What Should We DO? Because the BOP typewriter I was using in Jesup, GA had very limited memory, I had to do it in sections and then delete the work to make room for the next section. I knew this would mean some extra work to "seam it together", but that could be done last. William Miller in Jesup came to visit me nearly every week (what a blessing!). He is a computer genius and graciously agreed to type up the entire dissertation and insert pictures as needed. He was mailing it back and forth to me for several months for corrections, additions, etc. when I was suddenly moved here to Florence, CO due to falsely alleged "overcrowding" in Jesup.
Once I got here, I notified William so he could send me the a-a-a-almost finished dissertation for one final edit and polish before submitting it to get my degree. He spent $20 to mail it here and the problem began! You would have thought I had shot a sacred cow or something! I got a note from the mail room stating it had been sent back because inmates cannot receive a book they wrote themselves. I went to talk with the mail room lady and explained it was a college dissertation not a book. She said, "Then you must get it sent in through the education department."
Since I work in education I thought it would be no problem. I asked my supervisor if I could have it sent in and she said, "BOP policy is that it can only be sent in via education if it is for a course you took through the BOP. Since it is not but is religious you must go through the chaplain."
I went to the chaplain and explained the problem. He said he would look into it. He has been most helpful and is actually a God fearing man and a good preacher. He made a few calls and wrote a few emails to various people and told me it should be fine now so I told William to resend it. William spent another $10 to send 1/3 of it for a test. A week later the mail room lady called me in to say the legal department told her I cannot have it since education did not approve it! She said she would hold it for a few days so I could get approval.
So-o-o-o-o, I went back to a very exasperated education director and her boss to explain my dilemma. They said they were bound by policy and could not authorize it through them. That does not mean I can't have it--just that they cannot say it is OK. I went to one of the two case managers here at the camp and he was most helpful. He said, "I will authorize it to come in as a package." and signed a package authorization form. He told me to have a counselor sign it and the problem should be solved. HA! I went to the counselor in my dorm and he took away the form and said he would check in to it. (This was yesterday, Sunday, Oct. 23.)
This morning he called me into his office and was obviously upset. He said, "I don't know what you are trying to do Hovind but you have been told by education and by legal that you cannot have it. I told the mail room to send it back today."
I said, "Sir, that is not correct. I have never been told I cannot have it. I have only been told I cannot get it until it is authorized by the right person. I've been trying to do just that for over two months now. I never asked anyone to get involved in this. It's just a college dissertation and I cannot understand what the problem is!"
So-o-o-o-o, here are my choices as I see them now:
1. Forget it and stop trying and wait till I am out to finish. I feel strongly the Lord does NOT want me to do that. Nehemiah didn't stop building the wall because he was opposed. (Ditto Moses because Pharaoh said no--9 times!)
2. Have William send it in 6 pages at a time so it is not a "package."
3. Keep trying higher staff and risk angering the petty ones who feel threatened when their decisions are overridden. The petty ones can be very vindictive!
4. Have William send it in as is to the University even though it needs a final polish. This will get it done, produce a slightly lower grade and cause the atheists to pick at details (spelling, grammar, etc.) and miss the bigger picture of the message.
5. Have William post it on www.2peter3.com and various other blogs as is to get the message out and help people prepare for what is coming soon. I can then modify, tweak, edit, etc. the dissertation over the next few years to improve and polish it before it goes to book format. This is what I did with my seminar series 20 years ago. I knew the material would be helpful but also needed LOTS of polishing! I decided to produce the series even though it was poor quality graphics and then re-tape as we could. Over the years we have re-taped the seminar series about 20 times!
I've decided it will NEVER be right but giving soldiers some ammo (even if scratched) is better than NONE! Ditto with the dissertation. While we plow through the silly bureaucrats let's get it "out there." Please notify me of any errors you find. Please be understanding!
Kent Hovind
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
A Day (More or Less) in the Life of Kent Hovind in Prison
Many have asked me what it is like in prison. I have written on this topic on several previous blogs but last Friday...well, October 14, 2011 was not exactly a typical day but not too far out of the ordinary either. Actually, we would need to back up a day or so for it to make sense.
For the entire time I have been locked up (5 years on Nov. 2 :((( ) I have sought for ways to continue winning souls and influencing people for the Lord. One simple way to do this from here is to make personalized bookmarkers for people to send them when I answer letters or for the men I live with and their families. My dad taught me how to make these many years ago when I was about 15.
I make the person's name in lo-o-o-o-o-ng skinny letters that can only be read if you look at it from a certain angle. The spiritual lesson is great. Some things do not make sense until we look at them God's way--lo-o-o-o-o-ng term. (That applies to things like illnesses, prison terms, financial and marital problems etc. - See Romans 8:18-39.)
So, I had my wife and daughter make up a sheet of paper that can be cut into 5 of these bookmarkers so I could put the name on one side and have the plan of salvation on the other side. I have made many thousands since I have been imprisoned. Everyone loves them. They really are pretty cool. I'll be glad to make you one when this gets resolved.
Anyway (no 's' Marlissa), a few weeks ago the mail room here stopped letting the papers come in. Thursday evening in the mail I got 5 notices that the papers had been stopped because I used them to "run a business." I was shocked! I went to the Assistant Camp Administrator ( a very nice and helpful lady) to see what the problem was. She said she wasn't sure but the head chaplain, the prison legal team and the mail room staff were looking into it. Wow! For a 2 inch wide piece of paper! I am sure not trying to run a business. I'm trying to win souls but I can't help but wonder why the BOP (Bureau of Prisons) even has a policy that inmates cannot run a business to help provide for their family. Somebody needs to re-examine the policy!
Anyway (no's' Marlissa) Friday morning I heard my name called on the intercom to come to the officer's station (usually not a good thing). When I arrived I learned I had been randomly selected to take a drug test (only my 2nd one in 5 years). The officer said I had to give a urine sample. I said I have been fasting and won't be able to go for a long time. He said I had 2 hours or he would give me a "shot" for refusing to provide a sample. A "shot" is a report that has various consequences depending on what it is for. When I was in Edgefield, SC I called the CSE ministry office and asked to speak with my son in the next room. They transferred the call to his office and we talked for 10 minutes. The next day they called me in and gave me a shot for making a three-way call! They took away my phone for 6 months and took away 27 days of good time! I tried to explain that if I called my lawyer his secretary would anser and transfer me to him. This was a church ministry office and should be no different. I spent over $50 on copies and mail to fight the "shot" all the way up the food chain to the BOP headquarters in D.C. but to no avail. They all backed up the local staff person's decision.
Anyway, I drank a ton of water and finally made the deadline to provide the sample! Then, after my afternoon math class we had mail call at 3:15. When we went back to the dorm we discovered some moron had broken 5 windows in the dorm. Two rumors immediately began to circulate. A. A staff member had done it to get to work overtime since the BOP budget is being cut and Christmas is coming up. and B. One of the inmates had done it to protest the TV rooms being locked for two days over one man not standing up fast enough when an officer walked in for count time a few days earlier.
Regardless of why the windows were broken (most camps have little or no vandalism or fights) the staff reaction was to immediately "lock down" our dorm. There are two dorms here each housing about 260 men. "Lock down" means we were confined to our wing of the dorm and only allowed to go out for meals. No TV, no email, no microwave, no laundry, nothing but bed and bathroom. So-o-o-o-o, from Friday evening till Monday morning we were locked down. During that time the staff called each of us in to ask us scripted questions to try to find out who had broken the window. When I went in for my interview Saturday they asked what I would do. I said I would immediately "resume normal" and let everyone go back to the regular schedule. I explained that only one person did this and it is counterproductive to punish everyone. The real problem is so-o-o-o-o different than the BOP will ever admit or even understand. I cover this in the March 29, 2010 blog titled "A Day at Edgefield Prison Camp 'The hole in the Fence'" posted on 2peter3.com. My advice went unheeded and Sunday, two more windows were broken.
During the "lock down" I read several books including one called "Hearts of Fire" by Voice of the Martyrs (www.persecution.com). It is the story of 8 different women in 8 different countries who were tortured for their faith in Christ. Wow! THAT is a life changing book!
Each of the men I talked with after their 'interview' about the broken windows came away with the same opinion. The BOP's only way of looking at this problem is to see "How can we punish the whole dorm? What else can we take away?" I am convinced they have it a-a-a-a-all backwards. I live with these guys 24/7/365. I think I have a good handle on what would work.
If you have seen the movie "Enemy at the Gates" this will make sense. In the movie the Germans are surrounding Stalingrad and the Russians are frantically trying to stop them by throwing thousands of poorly trained and poorly armed men in the battle. The Germans are killing them as fast as they arrive. The terrified young Russian soldiers turn and run only to be shot by their own leaders for running. At a meeting of the officers one evening Russian General Kruschev is demanding ideas to make the men fight harder. They suggest things like, kill the families of any man who runs, etc. All the ideas involved more ways to punish the ones who run away when one young officer calls out his idea, "Five them hope." Kruschev stops and walk over to the man and says, "What did you say?" The man repeats his suggestion that what the men needed was NOT more terror or punishment but something to hope for. He tells of the young man he saw who single handedly shot 5 Germans. He suggests they make flyers about him being a great sniper and make him a national hero. They follow his advice and the spirit of the soldiers is turned around magically. They are now fighting out of hope not fear.
Anyway, the same logic would work well with the men in here. Let me explain. Congress has passed laws that allow the BOP to give up to one year halfway house and one year home confinement to nearly all inmates. I don't know of ANY federal prisons that do that, but they could. Some give 6 months halfway house. Congress also authorizes the warden to give lots of furloughs for inmates to go home for a few hours or even a few days. Many prisons, including this one, rarely or never do this. I'm sure the BOP staff have their reasons and policies but let me explain how the men inside here see it.
They think it is all about the money. If we were gone home or to halfway houses a year early or were gone for a week furlough the BOP could not count us during count time and this would affect their budget. (See I Timothy 6:10) The men have no hope of getting home to their family early even though the law allows it. Feds give out double or triple the time that the states do for the same crimes. The "The Hole in the Fence" for why.
The men here all have the feeling that the staff wants to give them the minimum time off their sentence rather than the maximum allowed by the law. This breeds an obvious resentment and even hatred. Given the right set of circumstances the lid could easily blow off into a full fledged riot.
If, however, the staff honestly tried to give the maximum number of furloughs and the maximum time off the end of their sentence it would give them hope. If the BOP was known to be lobbying Congress for more good time and supporting bills like HR 223 and HR 1475 rather than always opposing them, the mens' attitudes would change. It seems to the men that the BOP is more worried about their job security than getting us back to our families. If this camp was known as a place that tried to help inmates in every possible way rather than punish them or make life miserable the men would police themselves and no windows would be broken.
I know some men are just plain mean and evil but my experience over the last 5 years has radically changed my views on prisons. I now see why God's Word never calls for prison as a form of punishment. Most crimes called for restitution like, if you steal a sheep you pay back 4 sheep (Exodus 22:1). Everyone goes home that day. Other more serious crimes called for beatings or even execution but NEVER prison. More about that in "The Hole in the Fence."
If I were warden I would implement the following policies as quickly as possible:
1. Order staff to give the maximum time off for halfway house and home confinement.
2. Give the maximum number of furloughs allowed.
3. Have a few key staff (by lottery) take a different man out to lunch (off campus) each lunch time and really listen to their concerns.
4. Remove the policy that says men cannot run legitimate businesses from here. They just want to help support their struggling families.
Then I would work to shut down or greatly scale back the entire prison system as quickly as possible. In the mean time I would order my staff to treat the inmates with respect. They are here AS punishment, not FOR punishment. I would work with other wardens around the country to get me transferred to camps as close to their families as possible or work to get a BOP policy implemented that the families of inmates more than 200 miles from home will get $500~ travel expenses once a month so they can maintain close family ties.
Since the warden has absolute power to simply release anyone he pleases, I would seek staff input and do interviews to release at least one man every week just because I can.
Hmmmm? Maybe I'll run corrections in the 1,000 year Millennium?
That was my day. I can't wait to see what tomorrow is like!
Kent Hovind
For the entire time I have been locked up (5 years on Nov. 2 :((( ) I have sought for ways to continue winning souls and influencing people for the Lord. One simple way to do this from here is to make personalized bookmarkers for people to send them when I answer letters or for the men I live with and their families. My dad taught me how to make these many years ago when I was about 15.
I make the person's name in lo-o-o-o-o-ng skinny letters that can only be read if you look at it from a certain angle. The spiritual lesson is great. Some things do not make sense until we look at them God's way--lo-o-o-o-o-ng term. (That applies to things like illnesses, prison terms, financial and marital problems etc. - See Romans 8:18-39.)
So, I had my wife and daughter make up a sheet of paper that can be cut into 5 of these bookmarkers so I could put the name on one side and have the plan of salvation on the other side. I have made many thousands since I have been imprisoned. Everyone loves them. They really are pretty cool. I'll be glad to make you one when this gets resolved.
Anyway (no 's' Marlissa), a few weeks ago the mail room here stopped letting the papers come in. Thursday evening in the mail I got 5 notices that the papers had been stopped because I used them to "run a business." I was shocked! I went to the Assistant Camp Administrator ( a very nice and helpful lady) to see what the problem was. She said she wasn't sure but the head chaplain, the prison legal team and the mail room staff were looking into it. Wow! For a 2 inch wide piece of paper! I am sure not trying to run a business. I'm trying to win souls but I can't help but wonder why the BOP (Bureau of Prisons) even has a policy that inmates cannot run a business to help provide for their family. Somebody needs to re-examine the policy!
Anyway (no's' Marlissa) Friday morning I heard my name called on the intercom to come to the officer's station (usually not a good thing). When I arrived I learned I had been randomly selected to take a drug test (only my 2nd one in 5 years). The officer said I had to give a urine sample. I said I have been fasting and won't be able to go for a long time. He said I had 2 hours or he would give me a "shot" for refusing to provide a sample. A "shot" is a report that has various consequences depending on what it is for. When I was in Edgefield, SC I called the CSE ministry office and asked to speak with my son in the next room. They transferred the call to his office and we talked for 10 minutes. The next day they called me in and gave me a shot for making a three-way call! They took away my phone for 6 months and took away 27 days of good time! I tried to explain that if I called my lawyer his secretary would anser and transfer me to him. This was a church ministry office and should be no different. I spent over $50 on copies and mail to fight the "shot" all the way up the food chain to the BOP headquarters in D.C. but to no avail. They all backed up the local staff person's decision.
Anyway, I drank a ton of water and finally made the deadline to provide the sample! Then, after my afternoon math class we had mail call at 3:15. When we went back to the dorm we discovered some moron had broken 5 windows in the dorm. Two rumors immediately began to circulate. A. A staff member had done it to get to work overtime since the BOP budget is being cut and Christmas is coming up. and B. One of the inmates had done it to protest the TV rooms being locked for two days over one man not standing up fast enough when an officer walked in for count time a few days earlier.
Regardless of why the windows were broken (most camps have little or no vandalism or fights) the staff reaction was to immediately "lock down" our dorm. There are two dorms here each housing about 260 men. "Lock down" means we were confined to our wing of the dorm and only allowed to go out for meals. No TV, no email, no microwave, no laundry, nothing but bed and bathroom. So-o-o-o-o, from Friday evening till Monday morning we were locked down. During that time the staff called each of us in to ask us scripted questions to try to find out who had broken the window. When I went in for my interview Saturday they asked what I would do. I said I would immediately "resume normal" and let everyone go back to the regular schedule. I explained that only one person did this and it is counterproductive to punish everyone. The real problem is so-o-o-o-o different than the BOP will ever admit or even understand. I cover this in the March 29, 2010 blog titled "A Day at Edgefield Prison Camp 'The hole in the Fence'" posted on 2peter3.com. My advice went unheeded and Sunday, two more windows were broken.
During the "lock down" I read several books including one called "Hearts of Fire" by Voice of the Martyrs (www.persecution.com). It is the story of 8 different women in 8 different countries who were tortured for their faith in Christ. Wow! THAT is a life changing book!
Each of the men I talked with after their 'interview' about the broken windows came away with the same opinion. The BOP's only way of looking at this problem is to see "How can we punish the whole dorm? What else can we take away?" I am convinced they have it a-a-a-a-all backwards. I live with these guys 24/7/365. I think I have a good handle on what would work.
If you have seen the movie "Enemy at the Gates" this will make sense. In the movie the Germans are surrounding Stalingrad and the Russians are frantically trying to stop them by throwing thousands of poorly trained and poorly armed men in the battle. The Germans are killing them as fast as they arrive. The terrified young Russian soldiers turn and run only to be shot by their own leaders for running. At a meeting of the officers one evening Russian General Kruschev is demanding ideas to make the men fight harder. They suggest things like, kill the families of any man who runs, etc. All the ideas involved more ways to punish the ones who run away when one young officer calls out his idea, "Five them hope." Kruschev stops and walk over to the man and says, "What did you say?" The man repeats his suggestion that what the men needed was NOT more terror or punishment but something to hope for. He tells of the young man he saw who single handedly shot 5 Germans. He suggests they make flyers about him being a great sniper and make him a national hero. They follow his advice and the spirit of the soldiers is turned around magically. They are now fighting out of hope not fear.
Anyway, the same logic would work well with the men in here. Let me explain. Congress has passed laws that allow the BOP to give up to one year halfway house and one year home confinement to nearly all inmates. I don't know of ANY federal prisons that do that, but they could. Some give 6 months halfway house. Congress also authorizes the warden to give lots of furloughs for inmates to go home for a few hours or even a few days. Many prisons, including this one, rarely or never do this. I'm sure the BOP staff have their reasons and policies but let me explain how the men inside here see it.
They think it is all about the money. If we were gone home or to halfway houses a year early or were gone for a week furlough the BOP could not count us during count time and this would affect their budget. (See I Timothy 6:10) The men have no hope of getting home to their family early even though the law allows it. Feds give out double or triple the time that the states do for the same crimes. The "The Hole in the Fence" for why.
The men here all have the feeling that the staff wants to give them the minimum time off their sentence rather than the maximum allowed by the law. This breeds an obvious resentment and even hatred. Given the right set of circumstances the lid could easily blow off into a full fledged riot.
If, however, the staff honestly tried to give the maximum number of furloughs and the maximum time off the end of their sentence it would give them hope. If the BOP was known to be lobbying Congress for more good time and supporting bills like HR 223 and HR 1475 rather than always opposing them, the mens' attitudes would change. It seems to the men that the BOP is more worried about their job security than getting us back to our families. If this camp was known as a place that tried to help inmates in every possible way rather than punish them or make life miserable the men would police themselves and no windows would be broken.
I know some men are just plain mean and evil but my experience over the last 5 years has radically changed my views on prisons. I now see why God's Word never calls for prison as a form of punishment. Most crimes called for restitution like, if you steal a sheep you pay back 4 sheep (Exodus 22:1). Everyone goes home that day. Other more serious crimes called for beatings or even execution but NEVER prison. More about that in "The Hole in the Fence."
If I were warden I would implement the following policies as quickly as possible:
1. Order staff to give the maximum time off for halfway house and home confinement.
2. Give the maximum number of furloughs allowed.
3. Have a few key staff (by lottery) take a different man out to lunch (off campus) each lunch time and really listen to their concerns.
4. Remove the policy that says men cannot run legitimate businesses from here. They just want to help support their struggling families.
Then I would work to shut down or greatly scale back the entire prison system as quickly as possible. In the mean time I would order my staff to treat the inmates with respect. They are here AS punishment, not FOR punishment. I would work with other wardens around the country to get me transferred to camps as close to their families as possible or work to get a BOP policy implemented that the families of inmates more than 200 miles from home will get $500~ travel expenses once a month so they can maintain close family ties.
Since the warden has absolute power to simply release anyone he pleases, I would seek staff input and do interviews to release at least one man every week just because I can.
Hmmmm? Maybe I'll run corrections in the 1,000 year Millennium?
That was my day. I can't wait to see what tomorrow is like!
Kent Hovind
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