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On March 17, 2003, just hours before "Shock and Awe" the four went into the Lansing, NY military recruiting center and carefully poured a small amount of their own blood in the vestibule. They went to the recruiting center with the knowledge that because the United Nations had not approved the invasion of Iraq, the invasion was illegal and would constitute crimes of war and crimes against humanity. They knew that under the Nuremberg Principles of international law, individuals have international rights and duties to prevent crimes against humanity which transcend the national obligations of obedience imposed by the individual state. They were also compelled to act by their spiritual beliefs and by their consciences.
The St. Patrick Four were tried in state court in April, 2003. They convinced nine (out of twelve) jurors that their actions were justified under domestic and international law. The trial ended in a hung jury.
In February, 2005 the federal government stepped in and chose to prosecute them under federal law. They are now charged with federal conspiracy "by force, intimidation, and threat" to impede an officer of the United States - a felony charge that carries punishment of up to six years in prison and a $250,000 fine. They are also charged with criminal damage to property and two counts of trespass, charges punishable by up to an additional 2 years in prison. Their trial will begin September 19th in Binghamton, NY.
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St. Patrick's FourFeds to citizens: Keep quiet and get back in line.