Son of Arizona Senate President (R) sodomizes 18 boys, will walk on plea

[SheWhoMustBeObeyed]

:grr:Is this a great country or what?:grr:

PHOENIX (AP) - Two young men charged with sodomizing 18 boys at a youth camp last year have been offered a plea agreement that may net them little jail time and no record of sexual assault.

Clifton Bennett, 18, the son of Arizona Senate President Ken Bennett, and his co-defendant, Kyle Wheeler, 19, were charged in January with 18 counts of aggravated assault and 18 counts of kidnapping for the incidents, which happened at a youth camp last June.

The younger Bennett confessed to police that he and Wheeler sodomized the 11- to 14-year-old boys with broomsticks and flashlights in at least 40 incidents, court documents show.

-snip-

Bennett was an honor student and active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who plans to go on a mission in September.

-------
Much more:

http://www.azdailysun.com/articles/2006/04/03/news/local/20060403_local_news_7.txt

edit to add: thanks to monkeyfilter.com for story

[MidwestTransplant]

1. Yeah but Cinthia McKiney pushed a cop and could get away with it.

[cain_7777]

78. Growing up Repuke

Two boys brought up with Christian republican values; I'm not surprised that this doesn't happen more often. Those 18 children deserve justice!

[The Backlash Cometh]

118. I wouldn't want to be those two GOP boys.

18 children and their parents, pissed and carrying.

[wiley]

122. I hope so.

I'm thinking of taking a drive. What are the Freeps saying about this?

[lostnfound]

146. Helpful links on a conservative site, complains of 'media feeding frenzy'

this site complains of a "media feeding frenzy" but includes links to various articles, 1 of which has some horrid detail:

http://www.eastvalleytribune.com/index.php?sty=57710

[wiley]

227. I'm physically ill

All the people involved in the cover-up and re-inventing of the definition of brutal sexual molestation of children need to be severely punished. I'm going to keep posting information I get to everywhere. This is actually a new low for the morally and legally corrupt Republicans criminals. Whose values do people think they share? Has the Governor said anything about this? Have any of the parents of these kids been threatened physically or financially. There is something extremely ill going on here that needs to be exposed.

[file83]

147. self delete

I made a tasteless joke. This is no time to be joking, sorry.

[Janice325]

2. WTF!!

That's just crazy!!!:wtf::mad::grr:

[cantstandbush]

59. More than crazy. It's outrageous!! Where are the RW Christian

conservatives who would be screaming for the death penalty because of the horror of sexual abuse of children? Is is ok to say that this is an example of the moral decay of the conservative RWing in America? That is sure what they would be saying if this were a Dem. Remember how they blamed Clinton for setting the immoral example for our children by asking "What will we tell our children?"
Well start telling them that former President Clinton had a blow by a consenting yound female. Then go and explaing this shit to them.

[xxqqqzme]

84. according 2 the christo-fascists ONLY homosexuals

engage in this kind of abuse - that's why they shouldn't be allowed 2 adopt - isn't that the current talking point?

[cboy4]

132. Ding Ding Ding, xxqqqzme, you are our grand prize winner.

Well said, and so true! :applause:

[ClintonTyree]

85. Oh, it was just a harmless prank........

a "hazing ritual". There's nothing to it, it was just a joke, a temporary lapse of judgment. Boys will be boys. The other young boys probably asked for it. :sarcasm:

Yep, the Republicans are teaching responsibility and accountability to their children very well. No wonder they turn out like bush, cheney et al. later in life. They have no moral bearing as youths, contrary to what the Repiglicans would have us believe.

If I was one of the parents of these boys and those two little criminals walked, I'd administer my OWN brand of justice. rest assured! :grr: Filthy fucking Republican swine!

[Kber]

104. Good thing they don't live in South Carolina

where such behavior could merit the death penality.

[cantstandbush]

64. Better yet, tell MSNBC that they haven't finished their child porn

story until they do a segment on this.

[Scairp]

131. I can't wait

To see O'Falafel Man jump all over the judge in this case. Won't hold my breathe though as I may turn blue and die first.

[StarTurtle]

167. I know someone who is classified as a sex offender

because his roommate gave him a CD-ROM that included some photos of underage girls. He never even looked at it, but it was found in his possession by the FBI when they arrested the roommate, who was the target of a sting.

So he spent a year in federal prison and this whole thing will follow him for the rest of his life. (The roommate, who really does have a yen for underage girls, is still in prison and won't get out for a long time.)

But it makes me physically ill to think of those two evil creeps in Arizona committing such vicious acts and getting away with it. What a vile illustration of the Repug version of the Golden Rule. Whoever has the gold makes the rules, indeed.



:argh: :nuke: :puke:

[AX10]

3. Can we get an organization together and go on the offensive?

[lostnfound]

137. Good point. Is there an equivalent to MADD for sex abuse crimes?

This is SOOOO crazy.

[RagingInMiami]

150. Let's start bombarding the Yavapai County Attorney's Office with letters

[AndyA]

4. How typical - GD prick!

Bennett was an honor student and active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who plans to go on a mission in September.

That's the way - do as I say, not as I do. God will forgive you of all your sins, because you're gonna go on a frickin' mission to show others the way.

Congratulations - George Bush couldn't have given us a better example of compassionate conservatism.

[BlackHeart]

43. It seems like they were already on a mission

(that would be funny if this wasn't so sick)

[movonne]

48. I can't even talk about this, it is so infuriating and unfair..

[AuntiBush]

117. Same Here!

I'm speechless! Is there no justice?

[Name removed]

54. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[nicknameless]

166. A pedophile on a Mormon mission.

The parents/adults of whatever community he invades should be forewarned.

[az chela]

5. I live in the town where this happened

I am beyond outraged!!!! It was on the front page of our paper today/Since half the town is related to the Bennetts and their mormon families I know exactly why they got off!!!
They are guilty of sexual abuse and should be sent to prison but the mormons protect their own.
I hope the parents of these young boys find a lawyer to put these guilty guys behind bars and lets them experience what they did to these kids.

[cantstandbush]

61. They should be required to register as sex offenders at a minimum.

I am beginning to believe, after watching the polygymy docu, that Mormans are a nasty bunch of perverts and that they are corrupting the minds of a goodly number of youngsters with their pseudo-Christain bull crap.

[schrodingers_cat]

114. Nahhhh........

They'll just have to go up in front of their congregation and confess. :puke:

[leesa]

192. I assume they are appealing the verdict? Is there anything we can do to

help?

[ThomCat]

6. And they will NOT have to register as Sex Offenders?

Somebody tell me that having a republican politician for a dad didn't help?

[jedicord]

7. Thanks for adding to my neuroses.

I've been checking out summer camps for my 12-year old son. He may stay home and be bored this year.

For those who say the preacher's wife shouldn't have killed her husband for ANY reason, I say I'd kill anyone who would do this to my son. Flame me.

[Cronus Protagonist]

36. I'll hold your weapons for you n/t

[Betsy Ross]

75. Hold or load? n/t

[Cronus Protagonist]

113. I presumed they were loaded and plentiful... n/t

[MissB]

38. Yeah, no kidding.

No flames here.

[jwirr]

55. You will not get flamed from - only empathy.

[Bluzmann57]

66. You ain't gettin' flamed here

If these bastards did anything like this to my kids, you can bet that the police and courts would show a lot more mercy than I would. Except that I'm a Democrat so I'd end doing life without parole while these no good so and so's walk.

[ClintonTyree]

87. Check to see if there is a camp run by law enforecement....

nearby you. We sent our daughter to our County's Sheriff's summer camp for two years. It's the only one I trusted. It's not aimed at recruiting future law enforcement officers, they did everything other summer camps do but in an extremely safe and structured environment. That's more for the parents I think than the kids, but she had a great time and we were at peace with it. Check it out!

[Blue Diadem]

OMG..How can it even be thought of as hazing?

SNip:

Prosecutor James Landis told a judge at last week's hearing that the "broomsticking" was a hazing ritual and a punishment, not sexual assault.



:puke:

[Peanutcat]

33. Oh please Mr. Prosecutor--

--Can I shove a broomstick up YOUR ass and see how you like it?

[jwirr]

56. Maybe someone will!

[AnnieBW]

130. Was It Hazing

When it was done to Abner Louima? Or that woman at Duke University?

[TheBaldyMan]

63. same way as Abu Ghraib was a 'Frat Prank', these sick bastards will not

walk, put them in front of a jury and let them come out with this kind of defence and any jury will nail them for the maximum sentence. They choked three of the kids till they were unconscious for god sake. They are just plain evil.

[Blue Diadem]

68. I just don't get it at all

Bennett confessed..yet they offer him a plea deal to plead guilty. Something is fishy about this entire thing..and it reeks just like Abu Ghraib did.

[TheBaldyMan]

73. the OP's headline explains it clearly enough

"Son of AZ Senate President (R)"

[truebrit71]

8. Good grief....

..I hope their mummies and daddies have deep pockets because the @$$-fucking they're about to get in civil court will sting for ages...

This is out of control....these little perverts get a walk?

Un-fucking-believable...:eyes: :grr:

[renate]

19. actually, the older one must have been 18 last June

I forgot about the possibility of civil suits. Yay for that, at least. The money will come out of his pocket for the rest of his life.

Maybe the boys' lives won't ever be the same, but my fingers are crossed that his won't be, either.

Usually I try to be forgiving and compassionate, to believe in redemption, blah blah blah, but DON'T F*CK WITH KIDS. In this case, I hope his life is ruined forever.

[LiberalArkie]

9. Olberman needs this story...

[GreenPartyVoter]

72. Good idea!

[Joanne98]

86. I sent it to O'Lielly and dared him to go after the judge.

If Olberman does than he'll have to.

[Supersedeas]

216. Do the Pervert of the Day Corporate Rats have the nerve to discuss this

story

[fishwax]

102. agreed

welcome to du :hi:

[Solly Mack]

10. He plans to go on a mission? Anyone know where - so parents

can be warned that a sadistic fuck will be coming their way?

They kidnapped & raped 18 young boys (with broomsticks and flashlights, no less) and they get a slap on the wrist?



And WTF?????

"Prosecutor James Landis told a judge at last week's hearing that the "broomsticking" was a hazing ritual and a punishment, not sexual assault.

The plea agreement describes the assault charge as "a non-dangerous, non-repetitive offense."

Oh, well...no fucking wonder sickos in America call torture a frat prank...these same sickos think rape is a "hazing ritual" and a "punishment"

A broomstick/flashlight up the ass is non-dangerous? non-dangerous?...getting it shoved up your ass "7 or 8 times" is "non-repetitive" - doing it to 18 different young boys is not repetitive??????

"Our biggest concern is that these kids are going to do it again," the mother of an 11-year-old Tucson boy told The Arizona Republic. "My son had something shoved up his butt seven or eight times. If that's not sexual assault, what is?"

[XemaSab]

23. I agree with you

That could be totally dangerous!!!

Hello? Perforated bowel??????

[Solly Mack]

25. with a prosecutor like that, who needs enemies?

[TalkingDog]

28. From reading the article...it was with clothes on. Still, disgusting tho.

I don't know if this is the same article, but the one I read stressed repeatedly that the assaults happened to clothed children.

Still, bruising is possible even with clothes on. No perforation is possible unless it was done with enough force to rip the pants.

[0007]

32. Still haven't figure that one out. With clothes on? Why kind

of clothes? This whole think stinks.

Then to say this halfwit is gonna on a Mormon mission. Give me a fucking break!

[TalkingDog]

39. No details given...so I can't reply. n/t

[Beaverhausen]

49. that is what happened to them since the assaults

Read the article again.

[TalkingDog]

191. I'll let you read the article. Here I'll provide the link and the quote:

http://www.azstarnet.com/metro/123050.php

"The boys told police "broomsticking" was done alternately with a broom, a cane, a mop handle and a heavy-duty flashlight while they were clothed."

[Beaverhausen]

194. That sentence is not in the article quoted in the OP

I will check out the one you link here. I don't really think this lessens what was done to these boys though.

[TalkingDog]

195. That's why I said I read a Different Article.....

And if people would read what I wrote instead of just reacting to it, they would find that there was not one word that defended the perpetrators.

So, yes, I agree that it was dreadfully wrong. They should both have been punished to the fullest extent of the law.

[jbnow]

40. Clothes on?

I went to the article hoping you were correct but if there was something in it that said their rectums were not exposed I didn't see it. The only reference I saw to "clothes on" was this:

The boys have had trouble going to the bathroom, sleep with clothes on, are afraid at night, and have undergone sexual-assault counseling, parents said.

But that is how they have reacted since being assaulted. The next paragraph says:

"Our biggest concern is that these kids are going to do it again," the mother of an 11-year-old Tucson boy told The Arizona Republic. "My son had something shoved up his butt seven or eight times. If that's not sexual assault, what is?"

It also says "sodomized with", also says "inserted into rectum".

So please, if I miss what said what you are saying here, point it out. I'd like to believe these kids were "nudged" with these things outside of their clothes, which would be bad enough.

[jwirr]

62. Sodomy is a rw sin!!!! Once again they make us the sinners and

they do the sinning and see nothing wrong with what they do. This is so sick.

[TalkingDog]

188. Howz about you read what I wrote: I read a different ARTICLE

From a DIFFERENT SOURCE.

http://www.azstarnet.com/metro/123050.php

"The boys told police "broomsticking" was done alternately with a broom, a cane, a mop handle and a heavy-duty flashlight while they were clothed."

Good enough?

[The Magistrate]

51. That Does Not Matter, Sir, To Laws On Sexual Assault

If anyone doubts this, my advice would be to attempt any of a number of possible experiments with clothed strangers encountered in a public place to test the principle....

[Name removed]

190. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[fishwax]

103. i'm not sure that's true

No perforation is possible unless it was done with enough force to rip the pants.

if the clothes in question were briefs, which can be fairly elastic, I would think perforation would be possible without ripping the briefs.

Of course, whether the events had any actual long-term physical consequences doesn't mean they weren't dangerous, anyway. And the psychological damage is already apparently severe.

And it's just plain sick anway :grr:

[darkmaestro019]

159. It's possible. Don't ask how I know, lol....

probably far more dangerous and painful than NOT through clothes, in a way...

Anal sex is disclaimered in all serious discussions with "USE PLENTY OF LUBE" because abrasions and tiny tears are probable otherwise, and CERTAIN with the friction and dryness of cloth.

Scuse my detail, youse guys. Not trying to be inappropriate.

[LiberalFighter]

211. Good point... nothing about whether they were wearing pants

or just briefs. Either way is being clothed. Or maybe they were just wearing a toga or robe without any underwear.

[RaleighNCDUer]

180. And just how do you get something shoved up your ass

fully clothed?

If there is no penetration, there's no sodomizing. If they were sodomized, there was, by defination, penetration. If there was penetration, there was a high liklihood of bowel perforation.

The charge was rape, not improper touching.

[TalkingDog]

193. Having never tried it, I don't know.

Feel free to experiment on yourself.

But for your complete edification here is the link and quote from which I took my info.

http://www.azstarnet.com/metro/123050.php

"The boys told police "broomsticking" was done alternately with a broom, a cane, a mop handle and a heavy-duty flashlight while they were clothed."

Note that the boys told the police this is what happened to them. And police are wont to stack charges in order to get a conviction.

It's like when Cindy Sheehan is charged with multiple counts (like trespassing and disorderly conduct) for merely protesting without a license.
They stack the charges in order to guarantee that something sticks.

But of course since he's a Repub, it's okay. Right? I mean it's only really justice if it works for our side.

[darkmaestro019]

158. Pretty much. Or splinters.

Most, uh, sex toys, shall we say, are NOT rigid as wood (or as LONG as a broomstick!) for safety reasons.

And it's not possible to sterilize wood; it is too porous. The few items designed for sex that I've seen made from wood are coated with latex or clearly stated that they CANNOT be sterilized and should not be shared or are only for "decoration"

I sincerely doubt any attempt at sterility period was made before they used the same broomstick on a different boy. How is this not dangerous?

[shanti]

31. yeah, ask abner louima

if it's not abuse :mad:

[renate]

11. how doubly awful for the boys and their parents

First to undergo those horrors (knowing that these things happened to their precious children must be almost as painful for the parents as the attacks themselves) and then to basically be told "so what?" by the justice system.

Three of the boys were choked until they passed out. PASSED OUT. How absolutely terrified they must have been. That is a brutal assault in itself.

What are the kids going to learn from this? This lesson in injustice is going to affect the rest of their lives--it would take far more inner strength than most people have to forgive the attackers who got off essentially scot-free, and to not let anger eat them up from the inside.

Reading that article makes me SO ANGRY.

[Janice325]

12. I hope someone goes after the f**king judge

and at least tries to get him disbarred or something.

[democrat_patriot]

14. Call O'Leilly I'm sure he'll get on it

like the pedophile Judge.

[Ian David]

13. Anyone remember this guy? The Pipebomb Republican?

Anyone remember this guy? The Pipebomb Republican?
Posted by IanDB1 in General Discussion
Wed Jan 18th 2006, 07:04 PM
Man Arrested at Okla. Airport With Device

By KENDAL KELLY
The Associated Press
Thursday, August 11, 2005; 11:29 PM

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Federal agents arrested a college student after finding a small explosive device in his baggage as he passed through an airport security checkpoint.

Officials have found no apparent connection between University of Oklahoma student Charles Alfred Dreyling Jr. and any terrorist group or activity, said Agent Gary Johnson, an FBI spokesman.

Dreyling, 24, was released on $10,000 bail Thursday after appearing in federal court. He faces a federal charge of trying to get on an aircraft with an explosive device. If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

<snip>

But Dreyling's landlord, former Oklahoma City Mayor Kirk Humphreys, said he had created a "glorified firecracker" and forgot it was in his luggage.

More:
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=364&topic_id=178069&mesg_id=178069

A rich Republican spoiled brat tries to get on a plane with a pipebomb... gets out of bail... and is allowed to continue his flight school training.

[UCLA02]

15. Do judges have to accept plea deals in AZ?

B/c in CA, the sentencing judges can decide not to accept the deal and tell them all to fuck off and start over.

Just wondering if enough pressure and bad press (especially from the judge's electorate) can get him/her to refuse to sentence pursuant to the deal.

[blondeatlast]

77. It appears the judge is not required to accept the deal...

From AZ's Attorney General's office (Terry Goddard, a damn fine Democrat, I might add):

http://www.azag.gov/victims_rights/BFA/crimprocess.html

Plea Agreement

The vast majority of criminal cases making their way through the criminal justice process never go to trial. What occurs more often is a process whereby the defense attorney and the prosecutor work out a mutually satisfactory disposition of the case, subject to court approval. If the attorneys reach an agreement, there is usually some modification to the original charges; the defendant may plead guilty to a lesser charge; some charges may be dismissed; an agreement to not file additional charges may be made, and/or a particular sentence may be agreed upon (called stipulating). If both sides agree to a negotiated settlement, the defendant enters a guilty plea and signs a statement that his plea is voluntary and that he agrees to waive certain rights. There may be a change of plea hearing scheduled for this purpose, or the defendant can enter his guilty plea at any proceeding. At a change of plea hearing, If the agreement is acceptable to the court, the judge schedules a date for sentencing.

(all emphasis mine)

[renate]

89. nice find!

And good news! Let's hope the judge feels some pressure to reject the deal.
:applause:

[UCLA02]

141. Great, let's hope that the voters speak up!

I'll bet those Mormon fundies don't know where to shit: They either need to protect the family (the most important facet in the Mormon dogma), or turn a blind eye to one of their own...

Gee, which way to run?

[Initech]

16. Fundies and sex crimes... who woulda figured?

But this one takes the cake. :wow:

[Ksec]

17. Wheres Oreally?

If this was a Dem it'd be nonstop on Faux. Since its a repuke, like most pervs are, not a peep.

[Ian David]

18. I bet the Mormon Church sends him on a mission to work with children

[Der Blaue Engel]

20. I was just reading that story and trying not to scream aloud at the office

Unfuckinbelievable. Besides being outraged at the injustice, I'm disgusted that the story used the word "broomsticking" to avoid the actual word, which is RAPE. Since when is rape referred to with verbs made up from the object used for the rape? Will we see stories on "baseball-batting" next?

This pisses me off so much I can't even compose a rational thought.

:wtf:

[Ignis]

67. Exactly! What a crock!

What's next? Will "penising" become a euphemism for rape?

Unbelievable. Simply unbelievable.

[fishwax]

107. yeah, "broomsticking" ... isn't that cute

:grr::puke:

apparently this is a frequent enough occurrence at that particular camp that they have a cute nickname for it. :nuke:

But you make a great point about language. This is rape. And for the prosecutor to pretend it isn't even sexual assault is fucking outrageous. :grr::nuke:

[darkmaestro019]

160. Pretty much. If I use an object and call it hazing

and, uh, chainsawing......can I do this to various people? Adults, mind you. I can think of a few who tend to hang out anywhere-but-Washington that I'd enjoy giving this a whirl with.

Absolutely insane. It's almost like they've taken the meme of using PC terms and started using it for evil, pretty much.


Why is it that the Pugs are so against "sodomy" when done with consent and love between two married grown people but all for it when it's nonconsensual and deliberately violent in an inescapably authoritarian setting?

[fishwax]

189. Damn, what a great question

Why is it that the Pugs are so against "sodomy" when done with consent and love between two married grown people but all for it when it's nonconsensual and deliberately violent in an inescapably authoritarian setting?

I think that deserves an answer. :grr:

[arikara]

208. Sure, why not indulge in a little "shaving"

with a chainsaw. Or what about some "pinning" with an air hammer? Or "ticking" with a jackhammer...

Harmless fun!

[highnooner]

21. This makes me sick...

Not only does he do it. But it appears that he is going to get away with it.

[highnooner]

24. This looks like a case for Rita Causby

[OutsidetheBox]

44. She only does missing blonds, not 18 sodomized children

ON the other hand the bastard will probably be a guest of honor on Larry King, telling us how horrible this experience has been and how he just wants to move on....

I hope these men are forever imprisoned in the minds of the public... And the sad thing is that they will be on a mission to some third world nation converting those with beautiful and exotic religions to the decrepit beliefs of Western American religion.

[Janice325]

47. Send it to Nancy Grace

I don't care for the woman, but she really goes off (i.e., gets really pissed) about stuff like this, and shows her outrage.
She'd expose the bastards for what they are.

[incapsulated]

22. I'm speechless

This was a horrific crime. They even choked these boys until they passed out. These prosecutors have to be getting played, either in money or by threats. Why did they suddenly drop the charges and accept a walk away plea deal?

This is truly outrageous. I hope the parents kill them in a civil case. Those poor kids.

[OutsidetheBox]

26. Guy should go on a mission to the state prison in Florence

Then he would see what it is like to get sodomized. Freakin son of privilege! If this boy were black or Hispanic or low class Anglo he would be sent to rot in an American gulag. Pure contempt for the prosecuting attorney! Of course the Attorney General in Arizona is a freaking Repug, the President of the Senate is a freaking Repug, I am sure AG told prosecutor to be kind to the sodomizing son of the President of the Senate. Pure bullcrap.

[berni_mccoy]

27. I'm only K&R ing this because it is so terrible and outrageous and

More DUers need to see what these pukes are getting away with.

[kurth]

29. 'Fortunate Son' winning out over unfortunate victims

...The person who's supposed to be looking out for the 18 victims in this case is Yavapai County Attorney Sheila Polk. She hasn't had much to say about the case so far. On her Web site, however, Polk claims that her office "vigorously prosecutes crime throughout Yavapai County" and "protects the rights of victims."

The parents of the boys who were abused by Clifton Bennett and Wheeler might disagree. The victims were between 11 and 14 years old. A number of them supposedly have had physical and psychological trouble since the assaults. And yet under an agreement with prosecutors, Clifton Bennett may escape any real jail time and wind up with no record for sexual assault. Is there really anyone left in America who believes there is such a thing as equal justice? Anyone who doesn't believe that the wealthy and influential among us have a much better chance of making it through the legal system unscathed than the poor and powerless?

Lawyers for Clifton Bennett said that he was an honor student and active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They said that he had plans to go on a mission in September. In a letter to the court they actually wrote, "A felony conviction for assault will make his desire to complete his mission impossible." Again, some of you might find it shocking that a "felony conviction" could make such a thing impossible but that having assaulted 18 boys would not.

Even those who don't follow the justice system should know what's going on here. If not, tune in to your local classic rock station. It's all explained clearly and succinctly in Creedence Clearwater Revival's 1970 song Fortunate Son, with a chorus that goes, "It ain't me, it ain't me/ I ain't no senator's son,/ It ain't me, it ain't me,/ I ain't no fortunate one."

http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/local/articles/0404montini0404.html

[wicket]

30. As a sexual abuse survivor...

....this is f'n INURIATING :grr: :grr: :grr: :grr: :grr: :grr: :grr:

[OnyxCollie]

50. Me too, and I concur. nt

[wicket]

125. There are a lot of us out there

:hug:

[annabanana]

34. astounding hypocrisy

just astounding

[MissB]

35. Holy shit. Those two young men deserve prison.

Long sentences, at that. They've sentenced at least 18 young boys to horrible trauma that will take years (perhaps a lifetime) to overcome.

[RubyDuby in GA]

45. They deserve a lot more than prison, but it's a start

At least in prison, they can get a little taste of what it's like to be raped - hopefully on a daily basis. I don't care who flames me for this. These two stole the innocence from 18 boys. They're lucky it's not my son or they'd both be dead now and I'd be sporting an orange jumpsuit.

[elehhhhna]

37. an additional assault charge for choking three boys until they passed out.

Wheeler has been offered a similar deal but faces an additional assault charge for choking three boys until they passed out.

[lostnfound]

That makes me want to cry.

WTF is wrong with this world.

[CoffeeCat]

41. I hope the parents of these children sue in civil court...

This is just evil.

So...you can rape and kidnap 18 children and walk away--if your daddy (most likely a molester himself) is a politician? I hope to God that the good people of Arizona are just as enraged as we are. The prosecutors are the ones offering this SICK and EVIL deal. What...are they golfing buddies with this father?

This criminal admitted his crimes. This is evidence which should be used in a civil trial. They'd only have to convince half of the jury members that there is a "preponderance of evidence." Anyone can see that there is more than enough evidence.

If this politician father wants to pull strings so his thug molester son can roam free--then make him pay through the nose for that freedom. I hope these people are sued until they're relegated to living out of a cardboard box and eating scraps on a table made out of a used tire.

These people are sick. They should be charged with felonies and put behind bars for decades. These victims will suffer for a long time--that's for sure.

This article is so horrendous, on so many levels.

[NashVegas]

140. I Think They Will

The 18 boys were chosen to attend the weeklong student government leadership skills camp in Prescott because they were among the state's top student leaders.

Think about that, many of these are most likely to be "good" families with connections and money for lawyers.

Police report here:

http://www.co.yavapai.az.us/departments/aty/BennettWheeler.pdf

[CoffeeCat]

145. This demonstrates the "chilling effect" that sexual abuse has...

...on victims.

I'm stunned that 18 victims were silent for more than six months. The only reason these crimes came to light, is because ONE victim told--after six months of silence.

These boys--as you point out--are bright, outgoing and leaders among their peers. Still, they were all so ashamed and so traumatized, that they chose to remain silent.

Sexual abuse is so devastating. It rips perspective from a person. The trauma overshadows rational thought.

I am glad that one of these boys told. These boys all have gifts, and I hope that they receive the therapy they need so they can go on to live the lives they deserve.

These boys will be in my thoughts.

[darkmaestro019]

161. They were probably too EMBARASSED to tell....

how the fuck do you even START a conversation like that?

In a way I can see in a child's head how they'd either fear not being believed, fear being punished themselves for being "involved" in something they sensed was very wrong--or that they'd be laughed at for making a big deal out of it, if it was presented as hazing to THEM, as a toughness contest or a coming-of-age ritual type thing......

[Lavender Brown]

42. Typical - the son of the congressman (R) for my district

assaulted a kid so badly he nearly lost his eyesight - and he didn't get any jail time either. This is the one President Bush calls "Congressman Kickass." :eyes:

[Catherine Vincent]

46. Thank goodness I read the whole article.

This is what the prosecutors seek but that doesn't mean the jury would agree with it.

[jbnow]

90. Does a plea agreement

go to a jury?

[Hardrada]

52. Send these two to prison

with all the Bushco crooks (DeLay comes to mind) and they can all sodomize each other for fun.

[Tab]

53. Oh, poor boy - he won't be able to go on his church mission if convicted!!

Well, then, that changes everything.

[fishwax]

110. yeah, he should've thought of his lifelong dream of missionary work

before he raped 18 kids. :puke:

[worldgonekrazy]

57. This prosecutor MUST be corrupt

There is no fucking way that a jury would let these guys walk for what they did, so why the hell would the prosecutor offer such a fucking horrible deal? I've heard of prosecutor's discretion, but this is fucking ridiculous. The one and only conclusion I can see is that the prosecutor has been corrupted in some way. Perhaps a political appointment was offered?

[az chela]

151. they are all mormons

I live in the town where this happened and the Bennetts are all mormons and pretty much own half this town and they have a lot of power and since there are so many mormons here they take care of each other

[Pryderi]

58. South Carolina executes 'em, Arizona lets 'em walk

[peacebird]

60. how could FORCED SODOMY *not* be a sexual assault?!?!

so Bennett can't go on a "mission" for LATTER-DAY SAINTS?!?! I say send him on a MISSION in jail, let the other inmates practice a little "brooming" with THEIR woodies.

Every time I think a repuke can sink no lower... there they go again.

I hope all their victims sue the holy crap outta these two perverts.

[Neil Lisst]

236. going on the mission is essential for anyone who wants to be in the church

LDS, that is.

He can't become a Bishop without it.

The point is that the mission is very important as a stepping stone of the ambition and dedicated mormon male.

not that I care

He's probably had other victims, so get busy finding them and prosecuting them.

[madmom]

65. where is the same outrage that went after the two judges giving

probation to child molesters in Ohio and Mass.(I think was the other one)!

[Joanne98]

88. Remember what Fox did to that judge in Vermont.

I bet they don't say squat about this.

[rateyes]

69. The judge should not accept that plea deal...

if he/she has the power not to, and I think a judge does have the power not to accept the deal. They should be tried and a jury should decide. Period.

[Rocknrule]

70. The law does not apply to Republicans

That is the state of this country right now
:mad:

[Voltaire99]

169. You got that right.

Only the occasional scapegoat is served up to sustain the fiction of a nation of laws.

[marions ghost]

207. unfortunately

it takes cases like this to illustrate to the rest of us that if you are among a community's movers and shakers, you are often presumed to be above the law, with escape routes the rest of us have never dreamed of. No matter what your offense, lawyers and judges will be lenient, if you are one of them.

There is absolutely no such thing as equal justice in this country--anyone who believes that is hopelessly naive. This case and also the Duke rape case will be enlightening for the public. But even if justice is served in these high profile cases, there are countless such cases that never see the light of day.

"....the fiction of a nation of laws" -- too true

[mikelewis]

71. I can't believe the parents of those children are just going to let him...

get away with that. I can tell you right now, there's no way I'd let that shit slide. I love Jesus, but I ain't him. I hope they put a lot of protection on that kid, he's gonna need it. He may just have traded 15 years in prison for a death sentence.

[martymar64]

213. As a survivor of similar abuse

There is not one day that I don't think about revenge on my attacker . . . and this happened 35 years ago.

One way to go would be to have a nationwide picket in front of Mormon temples with signs decrying the churches tolerance for pedophiles and sex offenders. The church is having enough trouble over the polygamists, so this will be some more added pressure.

[Octafish]

74. Gee. Shouldn't they be on some sex offender list for the rest of time?

GOP family values: We fuck you and yours.

[KAZ]

76. If someone can find a better email link...

...please post it. I used this. [e-mail] to let them know how I feel about Mr. Landis.

[DemInDistress]

143. I am sending this...what do you think?

WOW! WISH I HAD A JUDGE IN MY POCKET. WHAT WAS HE PROMISED? HOW BIG A
PAYDAY DID THIS JUDGE GET? WOW! IMAGINE IF THAT WAS YOUR KID GETTING REAMED WITH A BROOMSTICK WHILE THE ASSAULTER HAD AN ERECTION.
WAY TO GO ARIZONA, SET THE EXAMPLE FOR ALL AMERICA. MY KIDS WILL NEVER
ATTEND CAMP AGAIN.
SHAME ON ARIZONA, I WILL WRITE GOV. RICHARDSON AND ASK HIM TO INTERVENE
ALSO,I WILL WRITE TO THE LOCAL MEDIA AND REQUEST FRONT PAGE COVERAGE.

"STATE SENATOR'S KID WALKS FROM SODOMIZING 18 BOYS" WOW WOW WOWO!

WIELDING POWER IS FANTASTIC !!! POWER CAN GET YOUR KID OFF FROM 18 SERIOUS FELONIES.


JAMES
BRONX NY.

PS. I FORWARDED THIS NEWSWORTHY STORY TO MY LOCAL NEWS OUTLETS IN HOPES OF EXPOSING THE CORRUPTION,AND CRONYISM.

edit for anonymity and spelling

[Wheezy]

178. Gov Richardson is the gov of New Mexico. Napolitano is AZ.

Or maybe I misunderstood your reason for contacting Richardson...

[DemInDistress]

217. thank you my mistake...I did write to the LDS here is the reply

The Public Affairs department of the LDS Church is aware of this issue . . . tragic if all of the information reported is correct . . .

Thanks for the e-mail

>>> james <[e-mail]> 04/04/06 10:26 PM >>>

Originating page language:
Originating URL: http://www.lds.org/newsroom/showpackage/0,15367,3899-1---1-626,00.html
Name:james
Email:[e-mail]
Business:retired
Address:No address provided
Phone:No phone provided
Fax:No fax provided
Message:
Arizona State Senator (R)President Ken Bennett pays off the Judge,please don't support this outrage. Read more:

edit for anonymity

[Bernardo de La Paz]

184. I think you should turn the all caps shouting off.

I applaud your motive, but I think you should turn the all caps shouting off.

All caps shouting makes you look like a lunatic. I also suggest you use proper formatting and puctuation. For example, a space follows a comma. Multiple exclamation marks don't create more emphasis, they just add to a looney feeling. Multiple and repetitive use of "Wow" is not impressive.

[rhombus]

79. Can we expect Bill O'Reilly to "jump" on this? chirp chirp

To him, repubs can do no harm.

[Faygo Kid]

187. As noted throughout, there will be nary a peep from Faux News

Maybe Olbermann can beat O'Lielly upside the head with this, since Bill most assuredly isn't going to mention it.

[blondeatlast]

80. AZ AG Terry Goddard is a damn fine Democrat. Can we appeal to the AG's

office?

Ex-Phoenix mayor and state legislator--this would make a great case to run for re-election on (sadly, it appears he will not seek a Senate seat this year).

I have the link and contact info, but until I hear from someone more knowledgeable than me about the effectiveness of this tactic, I will reserve it.

[Joanne98]

81. I bet O'Reilly doesn't get OUTRAGED at this judge.....

I'm sending it to the bastard just to make sure he can't say HE DIDN'T KNOW!

[catrose]

82. 18, huh? Till they passed out?

How many victims, on the average, did pedophile priests have? 18 before they're 20 seems like a great start on a world record.

And the Mormon church would even CONSIDER sending this guy on a mission?

LDS.org has only a website feedback form and a public affairs contact. For all other issues, they say, contact your local congregation.
Find it here:
http://www.lds.org/temples/geographical/0,11380,1899-1,00.html
Their home office is:
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
50 East North Temple Street
Salt Lake City, Utah 84150 USA
Phone: [phone]

[DemInDistress]

144. I emailed the Manhattan Branch my letter..see post 143 nt

[donkeyotay]

83. Republicans are above the law. Even sodomizing children

is excusable if you're a fine, moral, upstanding, Christian, family values Republican.

Sodomized 18 (or more?) children, isn't jailed, isn't registered as a sex offender and is going on a mission.. to where, Abu Ghraib?

Unbelievable.

[fishwax]

112. it's the worst case of iokiyar i've ever seen n/t

[darkmaestro019]

163. can you please explain "iokiyar" I've missed a memo somehow. eom

[Canuckistanian]

177. IOKIYAR

"It's OK If You're A Republican"

[fishwax]

210. It's OK If You're A Republican

A primary tenet of our nation's corrupt political philosophy in the last six or seven years. ;) Usually, though, it just involves tainted money or extramarital sex or lying, not raping kids.

[sinkingfeeling]

91. I am so ashamed of this country and the crooks who run it. I think

the two young men, 18 and 19, should be immediately inducted into the US Army and sent to Iraq. I'm sure the brass are looking for their type of 'moral values'.

[splat@14]

92. He can still do the mission in September....in Iraq!

[Bluebear]

93. "who plans to go on a mission in September"

Good. Send him to IRAQ~!

[ClintonTyree]

94. I wouldn't doubt that a little vigilante justice is administered....

if these two little scum-bags walk. I'd do it in a heartbeat if my child was attacked like this. Neither of these moral, upstanding, young, mormon, conservative young men would ever have the ability to reproduce after I got done with them. And, if I was chosen to sit on a jury deciding the fate of someone who administered said vigilante justice, would find no wrong doing on the part of the defendant. After all, it would have been just a prank, a harmless administration of vigilante justice that the real justice system neglected to administer.

These little bastards would be talking a few octaves higher when I hot through with them! :grr:

[darkmaestro019]

164. I wouldn't doubt that WHEN that happens

the "vigilantes" will get in ACTUAL trouble if they get caught. Because you know, we just can't have LAWLESSNESS... :sarcasm:

[martymar64]

218. Better yet, they would disappear

and nobody will find them. Well, maybe a part or two might turn in some future excavation in the desert.

[FighttheFuture]

95. Hmmm... probably the son repeating the actions of (R) Father...

criminals have a tendecy to beget criminals... environment plays a big role in abusive, sociopathic, behavior as the current crop of Repuglicans and Bu$hitCo are showing, agian and again.

After all, Bush is their poster boy for (R) socipaths everywhere!

[keopeli]

96. Dear God in heaven...how can we let this happen?

When it comes to teenagers having sex, I'm very tolerant, despite the various laws for age of accountability.

But, this is not about sex. It's about sticking broomsticks and flashlights up boys butts! That's not sex, that's violence.

No person who is 18+ should get off lightly for this crime.

Meanwhile, our jails are full of pot smokers.

God in heaven, we need you now!

[erpowers]

97. Why No Jail Time?

Why will these two guy walk with little or no time in jail. Also, what we Democrats do to get these guy more time in jail? Republicans push for long jail sentences for people who use drugs. If a person who uses drugs should be many years in jail than two people who assaulted 40 young people should spend many years in jail.

[BuelahWitch]

98. The Church should excommunicate him instead of sending him on a mission

If I were still involved with the Mormons I wouldn't want him anywhere near me or my family.

[UCLA02]

142. Another "recovering Mormon" here!

I'll never be completely cured, I just progress thru the 12 steps... ;-)

Such an ever-widening club.

[Common Sense Party]

148. This guy will NOT go on a mission. They don't cut slack.

[Radical Activist]

215. The Mormon church is pretty strict about who can go on missions.

I can't believe these kids would be allowed to go unless they lied to their local leaders. Now that the story is out, I can't believe the church will allow them to go on a mission anywhere. They don't even let many kids who have had normal sex go on a mission, much less someone who rapes boys.

[saintex]

235. your faith in Mormon standards is ... cute

In my missionary language training group of six, two lads had experienced the joys of sex. They just had to wait a few months before serving.

In my experience, the screening process wasn't terribly stringent. During my mission, one of my companions had confessed to a homosexual relationship before serving. Again, a waiting period was required (but much shorter than the heteros). This person also had very large scars on the wrist area, the result of two failed suicide attempts, both requiring transfusions and hospital stays. Not to mention simply being batsh*t crazy. I slept with the light on ;)

But I digress; Clifton Bennett should be excommunicated immediately.

Sadly, I wouldn't be shocked to hear in a few months that Master Bennett has been called to serve the church in a very poor South American country. Say, one without the pesky internet.

[depakid]

99. If this were a Dem's son

it would be on every so called "news" channel across the country.

[tandot]

100. Raping young boys is apparently part of the Republican Moral Values

These sociopathic bastards must go to jail for a long, long time and register as sex offender. I can not believe that bullshit. :mad:

[fishwax]

101. sounds like fraternity pranks to me

:puke::grr:

From the article:

Prosecutor James Landis told a judge at last week's hearing that the "broomsticking" was a hazing ritual and a punishment, not sexual assault.

The prosecutor sounds like he's working for the defense. This is horseshit. Outrageous. :grr::grr:

[colorado_ufo]

105. This is outrageous

and an egregious abuse of the legal system. Beyond unethical, into absolute immorality. The offenses of the prosecutor and the court exceed those of the perpetrators. Disgusting and appalling.

[OutsidetheBox]

106. Sounds like he'd be a great candidate for Catholic priesthood

[Roland99]

108. "mmmm...you look mighty good in them jeans, boy!"

[porkrind]

109. Outrageous! K&R!

[misternormal]

111. And this should surprise any of us, why???

[outeramerica]

116. This is wrong write to the prosecutor

I followed one link to a site and found that this woman Sheila S. Polk the Yavapai County Attorney had the nerve to post a letter justifying her decision with a link to write back to her. Here it is; mailto:[e-mail]

http://www.co.yavapai.az.us/departments/Aty/ConcernedCitizenBennett.htm

There is also a copy of the Police report which is contrary in many respects to her letter. They may not have out and out stuck these objects up the kids butts but that is not the point and the sentence definitely does not fit the crime.

[outeramerica]

119. Forgot to copy the mail I wrote her

In your own letter to the citizens you defend the perpetrators. Are you the defense or the prosecution?

There are places in the police report that very obviously demonstrate through interviews with the victims and the perpetrators, that this was not always done "Over the Clothing" and as stated in various parts of the police report it states the broomstick was placed "in-between the buttocks" with no clarification that it was “over the clothing”, and "aiming for the anus". How do you place a broomstick in between the buttocks over the clothing?

Your letter to “Concerned Citizens” is shameful. I have read the police report and that makes the content of your letter and your defense of these sick young men all the more offensive to an “informed person”. Perhaps you should read the police report again then read your letter so that you realize what an uninformed and unjust person you appear to be.

One more thing you should think about, if someone did this to you (broomsticked you) would you not consider it a sexual assault. I bet you would. And I bet you would take them to court and put them away for a long time. What a shame you do not have the same concern for these young boys.

You state in your letter; “Furthermore, the system has safeguards; in this case, it is the trial judge who represents an independent branch of the government. Based solely upon the facts of this case, he has already determined that the resolution of this matter was appropriate and serves the ends of justice.” You can try to place the onus of this decision on the judge but you recommended the sentence and are equally guilty in this great injustice. Remember the system will not work if all of us do not do our jobs correctly.

I hope you get a great big promotion for this or a great big bribe, because it will cost a lot to free your heart, mind, and soul from what you have just done.

[Tsiyu]

127. Excellent letter outeramerica

Hope it hits home

Repukes are absolutely the most vile people on the planet.

[StarTurtle]

224. Sheila Polk should be disbarred.

She has made it impossible for her office ever to prosecute a sexual assault case effectively. All a defense attorney will need to do is point out that the what the defendant is accused of isn't nearly as bad as raping 18 teenaged and preteen boys, and apparently that's not a crime in Yavapai County.

:banghead:

[Nevilledog]

229. You couldn't be more wrong.

The Yavapai County Attorney's office is currently prosecuting less serious cases and will do so in the future with MUCH more serious consequences. How do I know? I'm a criminal defense attorney in Prescott and I have to deal with Ms. Polk and her deputy county attorneys daily.


Let me give you an example. I represented an 18 yr old young man who had consensual sex with his 14 year old girlfriend. Not only were the girl's parents aware of the relationship, the kid was LIVING with the girl at her parent's house. He was also paying rent to them. However, the kid lost his job and couldn't pay the rent so the parents called the cops and reported their relationship. I had TWO psycho sexual evaluations on the kid and both came back positively that while the kid was immature and could use some counseling regarding appropriate relationships he was NOT a pedophile and suffered from no sexual deviancy. That didn't matter to Ms. Polk and the kid was forced to accept a plea offer that will require him to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life. His only other alternative would have been to go to trial where he was looking at a life sentence if convicted.

That's only one example... I could tell you about a dozen more.




Oh, and BTW.... there are PICTURES of the abuse in the Bennett case. The defendants took pictures of their actions. According to a prosecutor who has seen them.... there's no issue about whether there was penetration.... there was.

[kiteinthewind]

115. OMG!! How do you suppose he grew up to be such a sick fuck?

:shrug:
That just makes me sick. :cry:

[FighttheFuture]

133. Daddy Dearest? Repuglican "Famlily values"? Pat Robertson Christian?

Take your pick... they all probably play some role!!

[FighttheFuture]

134. The Sex is clouding this story... it's really about sadism, humiliation...

all those traits that sociopathic RW fucktards (e.g. Bush, Cheney, etc.) exhibit from their dysfunctional childhoods onward. The sex in this case is just a lever to exercise much more damaging traits.

That's the real key to this story, the sex just makes it more shocking. Remove that and it's just (R) business as usual.

[leftofthedial]

120. how is that even possible?

[wiley]

121. Obviously a nationally insignificant story

Why haven't the people of Arizona at least cut these two guys balls off and cobbled them? Why hasn't the Christian right EXPLODED over this? Flame me if you like, these two should be the ones who got tortured at GITMO. What's McCain say about it? Why is this not front page news?


What the fuck?

[kiteinthewind]

123. No flame, just total agreement!!!

:thumbsup:

[SheWhoMustBeObeyed]

129. Can you believe it? - NOT ONE NATIONAL WIRE STORY

I found this story through Monkeyfilter.com, a blog I follow via Yahoo News. Their post linked to two newspapers that covered it; one story glossed over some details so I posted the other, more damning one.

I googled expecting to find an AP or Reuters story about it - nothing! All the articles on Google News come from Arizona newspapers. Just about all the discussion about it comes from Arizona-area blogs.

One TV station covered it, KPHO in Phoenix. Here's their online version in its entirety:

----------

Son of Senate president pleads guilty in assault case

MESA, Ariz. The son of Arizona Senate President Ken Bennett has pleaded guilty in a case in which he was accused of using a broom handle to haze 18 boys at a youth leadership camp in Prescott last summer.

As part of an agreement with prosecutors, 18-year-old Clifton Bennett will be sentenced on one count of aggravated assault, rather than the 18 counts of aggravated assault and kidnapping that prosecutors charged him with.

Bennett faces the possibility of punishments ranging from prison time to probation or less when he's sentenced May 12th.

----------

That's some damn fine reporting, eh? I agree with so many others here who maintain that, had Bennett's dad been a Dem, Faux would be screaming about it 24/7.

[darkmaestro019]

162. They must have "friends" in really really high places

with a lot of money or dirt to bribe or coerce. That's all I can figure. They'd destroy my entire life for sitting home smoking a blunt and then having some TV and bed, but these guys get to do this? I know that's been said already but it makes a blazing burning line in my head that just won't go away, the INSANITY of that......

[ismnotwasm]

124. This is such bullshit

"Prosecutor James Landis told a judge at last week's hearing that the "broomsticking" was a hazing ritual and a punishment, not sexual assault.

"The plea agreement describes the assault charge as "a non-dangerous, non-repetitive offense"

It IS sexual assualt and should have been prosecuted as such. And I can't believe that bullshit plea aggrement describes it as either "non-dangerous"-- Perforated bowel leading to infection and necrosis anyone? or Non-repetitive...I'm sure I read 40 rapes--That's what you call it, rape-- what is NOT repetitive about that?

And one of these little shits is going to be allowed to do Missionary work?

[lostnfound]

135. ANY hazing of 11-14 yr olds by 18 yr olds is psycho to start with

This is so incredibly tragic.

Unbelievable.
I'm so disgusted and angry about this.

I swear I will never let my son out of my sight until he is an adult and able to fend for himself..and what kind of healthy childhood will that leave him with?

What an absolutely insane situation.

[ismnotwasm]

138. Amen

Hazing is one weird "tradition"

To think it's condoned at All,-- then actually used as a rape defense. Makes me sick. Literally.

[Tsiyu]

126. Jeebus, they;'re sending the one of the kids on a Mission trip?

This is sick and wrong. These abusive assholes should be in prison.

Sounds like they were practicing for their positions at Abu Ghraib.

Repuke torturers in training.

[sendero]

128. Well..

... I can't say what I'd like to.

But I hope the families of these kids hire some barracuda lawyers and file civil suits that guarantee this sorry ass motherfucker never has a dime to his name.

[lovuian]

136. Republicans and pedophiles and getting away with it

why does this scenario keep coming up!!!

[Bouvet_Island]

139. Spelling out outrage on the internet in a place

where it only reaches like minded people is hardly a good reply to this. You will have to use some serious force on the MSM to get them to cover this after initially passing it over. It'll make them look completely horrible. The logical press angle on this is that they created a small Abu Ghraib in the US, no less. I think torture is a better description than rape, it seems beyond any doubt to me that they are sadists. It isn't necessary to spell out sexual, it should be enough to say anus, people can figger this one out themselves.

You need to either cover the entire Internet with this now, painting up a picture of this that'll clear to people. I can't think about any other way than letting those children and parents tell their story themselves on tape, on their own premises. The carnage after the crime is what people should see, not a link to an article about "broom sticking". No matter the cost, you have to put the faces on this story and break as many people's hearts as hard as possible, as fast as possible. A few people with a video camera and a few hours can change this story utterly and completely by letting people hear about it first on the Internet, then seeing it come in sideways in the rest of the media. I am not kidding you. If you want to see this story change, you should take the active route and use "the army you have".

Who wants to throw the first stone !?!

[SammyBlue]

149. Go on a Missions this September? What Mission?

Not molest boys? Make a mockery of our Justice system.

Those 18 boys got justice. . .good and hard! Fuck these Arizona Republicans!!!!

[suffragette]

152. This is absolutely horrific.

And with all the talk about security this and security that everywhere you turn.

What about the right of these boys to be secure?
What about the insecurity they now feel?

There is no justice here.

[SoCalDem]

153. I hope he enjoys his mission..to the Big House

I hear the guys in there are really interested in LDS..

[OneBlueSky]

154. I don't know what's more obscene . . . what the guy did, or . . .

what the friendly prosecutors did FOR him . . . this is simply unacceptable, particularly when people who are poor and unconnected are receiving far more severe sentences for FAR lesser crimes every day . . .

in a sane world, the Department of Justice would be all over this -- but we live in BushWorld, so I doubt that anything will happen . . .

[az chela]

156. Ok I just emailed Senator Ken Bennett and Gov Napolitano

Told Bennett not to think his son was going to get away with this and that I plan on asking for a full investigation.Then emailed our governor and asked her for her help.This should get interesting.
Tomorrow I will contact the prosecutors office and also find out who the judge is who will be hearing the case.
I plan on writing a ltte in our local paper as this happened in the town I live in and I am so pissed that I cant just let this go.

[SheWhoMustBeObeyed]

170. That is great, az chela! Good for you!

I will be contacting Olbermann, AAR and others who will come to mind after I've had more coffee. It's disgraceful that this story has been out there since Bennett and Wheeler were charged in January but apparently no major news source has been following it.

Between the Republicans and the Mormons they've got your town wrapped up tight, sounds like. It's easy to be liberal in a big blue city like mine, but braver in a town like yours.

:toast:

[az chela]

234. I have written editorials in the Phoenix paper,the tucson paper

and the prescott courier.Doubt if any of them get printed

[Golden Raisin]

155. Republican "family values"

[janetle]

181. This was going to be my line!! Value voters.

[Nevilledog]

157. The County Attorney's direct email.

[e-mail]

and Jim Landis (he's really just an administrator...he hasdn't tried a case in over 10 years) is:

[e-mail]

[FighttheFuture]

165. The Sex is clouding this story... it's really about sadism, humiliation...

all those traits that sociopathic RW fucktards (e.g. Bush, Cheney, etc.) exhibit from their dysfunctional childhoods onward. The sex in this case is just a lever to exercise much more damaging traits.

That's the real key to this story, the sex just makes it more shocking. Remove that and it's just (R) business as usual.

[Voltaire99]

168. Their own little Abu Ghraib-away-from-home.

I predict a bright future for them in either the military or politics.

[nosferaustin]

171. WTF...

"Bennett apologized for his role in court last week, saying he was "trying every way he can to rectify the situation."

Oh well, then. That's good enough for me then, isn't it? Unless you're trying to make some kind of pun there young man, rectify...rectum?


...:wtf:


:sarcasm:


Hey, at least if this flies, there's a new precident for sodomy defense..."I wasn't having anal sex with my partner of 10 years, judge, I was hazing him!"

:sarcasm::sarcasm::sarcasm:

[DemExpat]

172. OMG......if this goes off like this....

it is more than unacceptable, a disgrace.



:nuke:

DemEx

[DrGonzoLives]

173. I watched "Batman Begins" last night

and the chief villain had a quote that I'm starting to agree with:

"Criminals thrive on the indulgence of society."

Maybe not all criminals, but certainly the priviliged ones. Vigilantism looks better and better every day.

[DUHandle]

174. Any other Arizona politicians come to mind?

It’s not unusual for politicians of the same party to be acquainted with one another, even though they be national, state, county or local.

[4 t 4]

175. This is so sad

I think once you hurt a CHILD and you are proven guilty (ah ~ like you confess) you should never again walk down the street as a free man---NEVER!!!!

[4 t 4]

176. WTF??

Requiring proof of intent in a sexual assault case is a "red herring," according to Andrew Vachss, a New York lawyer specializing in child cases who is also a best-selling author on the subject. He said intent in this case is being used as an excuse to cut a deal.

"The bottom line is you don't have to prove sexual intent when you have such gross assault," Vachss said.

[centristo]

179. What is this, Sin City? nt

[helderheid]

182. JESUS CHRIST. WTF???? CASTRATE THEM!

[izzybeans]

183. How about several years in a sex offenders unit of a state hospital?

that would be way worse than jail time. I used to work with patients who came from such units. They were there for much, much, much less. This is sociopathic.

[4 t 4]

186. No, How about LIFE in prison ?

These are Children they will probably never lead normal lives, think how hard life is anyway and then when you have to live it having gone through this-not fair!! Those guys should never walk down the street again.

[izzybeans]

231. Life in a state hospital would be bigger punishment IMHO

It's more confining and soul draining.

[Bernardo de La Paz]

185. Protest the County Attorney & State Senator with Brooms in the Air.

Show up at any campaign appearance or speech or public appearance of the County Attorney who wrote that ugly letter defending the criminals and of the state Senate president. Get as close to the action as possible and protest by waving brooms in the air. They make highly visible symbols and very graphic photographs that the media would have to explain to curious readers and that protestors can explain to passersby.

[Maraya1969]

196. Here is his picture in case anyone has an extra broom stick

And watch ME get in trouble for this!!!

[CottonBear]

197. Who is that in the picture? n/t

[Maraya1969]

202. He is the Senator, the father of the boys who raped the young boys

I've forgotten him name already. Oh how I do miss my brain. :freak:

[Maraya1969]

203. Here is some info about Senator Bennett, including his phone number!

http://www.azleg.state.az.us/members/kbennett.htm

State Senator Ken Bennett
Republican -- District 01

Office number: 302

Phone: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

[az chela]

232. this email address wont go thru

[CottonBear]

204. His name is Ken Bennett, AZ Senate President as per the link in the OP.

He looks so young (and sort of creepy in that Ralph Reed kind of way) that I thought it might be a picture of the son.

[az chela]

233. that is a picture of Senator Ken Bennett

He is the father of Clifton Bennett who is the one who did
the abuse to the boys

[LuCifer]

198. Ya know what REALLY seriously PISSES ME OFF?!

This scumbag is probably one of these rightwing jesus freaks who goes on and on and on about Satanist being child molestors, when, if ANYONE would actually MAN-UP and read "The Satanic Bible" by Anton LaVey, you would LEARN (new concept) that Satanism DOES NOT in any way shape or form CONDONE the harming of childern. Goddamn, this makes me wanna RAGE!!!!!!!!
x(:mad::puke::argh::argh::argh::grr:

[Rocknrule]

199. It must be nice to be above the law

I am so pissed that Republicans get special treatment in America just for having the same views as the president. Which country are we in again?
:argh:

[DanCa]

200. How dare they lecture about family values.

They have none none what so ever.

[AzDar]

201. Truly shocking was the County Attorney's assertion (yesterday in

the AZ Repulsive; sorry , no link..)that this was "NOT A SEX CRIME because the 'boys'(perps)aren't HOMOSEXUALS"...W.T.F.???

[LiberalFighter]

205. Sent this letter to editor

In regards to the sexual assault by Wheeler and Bennett there are questions that need to be asked. Questions and responses demanded of the County Attorney Sheila Polk and her staff.

If she and her staff were on the receiving end of those objects would they feel humiliated, assaulted, molested? Would they then demand that the law requires charges be filed under Arizona Revised Statute 13-1410 and 13-1401? If their child became a victim under those situations would they demand justice? Would they be outraged if a different County Attorney did what she did? It appears to me that she will give special treatment to those that have the connections.

Wheeler and Bennett were also in charge of these boys. The boys were expected to follow Wheeler and Bennett's instructions. If the parents of the boys had done the same thing to their child(ren) what would happen to them? Would a police officer, teacher, minister, babysitter be prosecuted if they did this?

For Polk to say that "... it is slap in the face to child molestation and sexual-assault victims everywhere to put this conduct in the same category" shows that she is not fit for the job. I am sure that victims of child molestation and sexual-assault would feel just as molested or sexually assaulted if they had been "hazed" by Wheeler and Bennett.

Would experts in the field of sexual assault and child molestation say that it was just good fun? If it is just good fun then the County Attorney's office should experience that good fun for themselves.

Then there is the issue of Bennett going on a church mission. Is this the type of individual his church want involved in their work? Will he be in contact with younger people resulting in a repeat? I would think that it would have a negative impact on the church mission and the church if he is allowed to go.

Sheila Polk is failing to perform her duty as County Attorney. She does not have the proper understanding of the law and interest of the community.

[Duncan]

206. WTF! How the hell can this happen?

My letter to the Az Daily Sun:

Outrageuos. Bennet and Wheeler repeatedly forcibly sodomized adolescent boys on at least 40 occasions and the PROSECUTORS want them to spend 5 days in jail?! If defense attorneys were asking for this deal it would be ridiculous and should be rejected, that the prosecutors are asking for it... just doesn't compute. How much influence does Ken Bennet have over the prosecutors? Where did these scum get the idea that "hazing" (raping) adolescent boys is ok, let alone strangling and sodomizing them?! Is sodomy part of some secret Moromon ritual? How can anybody think that calling it hazing instead of rape makes it less wrong?

Somebody please tell me this story is a hoax.

Thanks,
A reader.

[earth mom]

209. WTF - "Broomsticking"???!!!

:wtf:

This whole thing pisses me off to the nth degree! I CAN NOT believe they let those 2 evil demon spawn get away with this shit!

And WHAT in the hell is up with the euphemism "broomsticking"? Again-WTF?! So they can make it sound more like a game instead of MOLESTATION?!

Call it what it is you God Damned Lying Twisted So Called Christian Bastards! MOLESTATION! AKA RAPE!

:grr: :grr: :grr:

[Pacifist Patriot]

212. Well there's a good recipe for vigilantism.

When our legal system has a complete disconnect from reality, justice and common decency. *shudder* This is beyond a travesty.

[dogday]

214. My Husband and I were trying to imagine what

it must of felt like to have a flashlight shoved up one's anus and we both cringed... That is the most horrendous, horrible, sick, perverted act one person could perform on another and for these guys not to have a sex offenders record and do little time... It is totally not right and I am personally writing a letter to the State's Attorney of Arizona and to the Attorney General of The US.. That's right Gonzalez... These guys deserve to do some hard freaking time and be tracked for the rest of their lives........!!!!!!!!!!!Sick Bastards!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[warrens]

219. An outrage...call Bill O'Reilly and see if he really is

Fair and balanced. These are pedophile rapists and should be doing hard time.

[fun n serious]

220. The DA has a statement on her website.

Minimizing the situation.

http://www.co.yavapai.az.us/departments/Aty/ConcernedCitizenBennett.htm

I read the Police report. I still don't get it. It's ok to sticl a broomstick up a kids bum as long as he's still wearing his underwear? OK to choke a kid until he passes out as long as he appears to be consenting? Choke til he passes out? WTF is wrong with these people!

[az chela]

222. I also just read the police report and I have emailed Ms Polk

regarding her dropping the charges on this incident.I sugggested that had Cliff Bennett not been an az republican senator son as well as being a mormon he would have recieved prison time and sexual charges.
I contacted our governor and have also written several letters to the Prescott,Phoenix and tucson papers.
I emailed senator Bennett as well and told him that just because Cliff's father is an az republican senator and a morman with lots of power he is not going to get his son out of this.

[fun n serious]

223. Me too

I also e-mailed her and left a voice mail. I think they're hoping no one would read the Police report.

[Rocknrule]

221. I'm beginning to think

that if the OKC bombing had occurred today, McVeigh would've gone free because he was a registered Republican.

Seriously, the law does not apply to these bastards now. Laws are for little people like us, not the blessed members of God's favorite political party.
:argh: :puke:

[Wilber_Stool]

225. It's a good thing he didn't hit a cop

with a cell phone. He'd be up before the Grand Jury.

[ProSense]

226. Did CNN cover this or did it have to be offshore?

You should hear Santorum's ""Europeans are dying" speech. Madness brought to the world by the:

Group Of Psychos.

[BlakeB]

228. I say we all send this story to..

Bill O'reilly and see if he talks about it on air. I'm sending mine right now. You guys should join me!

[NVMojo]

230. ok, so they are spying on us looking for pedoperps and this happens

to their pals?? Fecked up beyond all recognition! The morals and values bunch are FUBAR!!!