BREAKING NEWS: Teens sentenced in Shenandoah murder trial
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By Dustin Pangonis
Staff Writer
dpangonis@republicanherald.com
The two Shenandoah-area teens convicted of simple assault in connection with the death of Luis Eduardo Ramirez Zavala were sentenced Wednesday to at least six months in county prison.
“It doesn’t matter if Mr. Ramirez was Latino, white, black or purple. This kind of violence in the streets of Schuylkill County is not going to be tolerated,” Schuylkill County President Judge William E. Baldwin said.
Brandon J. Piekarsky, 17, of Shenandoah Heights, and Derrick M. Donchak, 19, of Shenandoah, were convicted of simple assault May 1 for their role in the beating death of Ramirez, an illegal Mexican immigrant who died July 14, 2008, after injuries suffered two days earlier.
Donchak was also found guilty of three counts of corruption of minors and three counts of furnishing alcohol to minors.
They were sentenced Wednesday afternoon at a hearing before Baldwin in Courtroom No. 1 of the Schuylkill County Courthouse, Pottsville.
On the simple assault charges, Piekarsky was sentenced to six to 23 months and Donchak was sentenced to six to 20 months. The maximum sentence for the second-degree misdemeanor is one to two years.
On the three counts of corruption of minors, Donchak was sentenced to one to three months each. The maximum sentence for the first-degree misdemeanor charge is two to five years.
He will serve the corruption of minors sentences concurrently but consecutively to the simple assault sentence, bringing his total sentence to seven to 23 months.
On the three counts of furnishing alcohol to minors, Donchak was sentenced to 12 months probation. The maximum sentence for the third-degree misdemeanor charge is six to 12 months.
Piekarsky received a $200 fine and was sentenced to seven days in prison for an underage drinking citation because it was his second offense.
For his underage drinking citation, Donchak received only a $300 fine.
The teens were ordered to pay a joint cost of $4,572.65 in additional fees.
Piekarsky has 33 days of credit to his sentence for previous time served, and Donchak has one day.
Baldwin rendered the sentences at the conclusion of a nearly two-hour hearing in which character witnesses including family friends, teachers and sports coaches spoke for the teens, while the prosecution read a letter from Ramirez’s mother and called his fiancee, Crystal Dillman, to address the court.
Neither of the teens testified at their trial or spoke during the hearing, and Ramirez’s mother and Dillman accused them of having no remorse for their actions.
Piekarsky’s attorney, Frederick J. Fanelli, said the teen did not want to speak publicly because of the remaining possibility of federal charges, and that was not a sign of a lack of remorse.
Despite this, Baldwin said the teens’ actions showed no remorse, and in particular noted that Donchak had worn a “Border Patrol” T-shirt to a Halloween party a few months after the incident.
“It looks like he’s bragging about it,” Baldwin said, to which Donchak shook his head.
Donchak’s father, who had testified as a character witness, had said Donchak had a large collection of law enforcement shirts and had simply thrown one on when giving a friend a ride to the party.
Baldwin also referenced testimony from Piekarsky’s coaches about his character.
“There was testimony about (Piekarsky) being a team leader,” Baldwin said. “He was the leader of the team that night, and he attacked Luis Ramirez.”
The teens must report to prison by 9 a.m. July 19.
The teens were acquitted of the most serious charges against them, including one count of third-degree murder for Piekarsky and one count of ethnic intimidation each for Piekarsky and Donchak, brought on by allegations that racial slurs were yelled during the beating.
Before delivering his sentence, Baldwin said he had to put aside outside influences — like Gov. Ed Rendell’s letter calling for the maximum sentence on all charges and pressure from civil rights groups — and that he could not factor in Ramirez’s death because neither of the defendants had actually been convicted of homicide.
“There’s been a lot of talk about this as a street fight gone bad,” Baldwin said. “I don’t know what that is. This wasn’t any fight. This was a group of young athletes ganging up on one person.”
Baldwin also said the teens didn’t know Ramirez was an illegal immigrant, but if they did, that the penalty for illegal immigration is “deportation, not execution.”
“If it wasn’t motivated by ethnic intimidation, it was plain meanness,” Baldwin said. “You don’t kick a man when he’s down.”
Jeffrey M. Markosky, defense counsel for Donchak, said he and Fanelli, were “disappointed” by the sentence, and would discuss the possibility of an appeal in the coming days.
Schuylkill County District Attorney James P. Goodman said his office was confident there are not many grounds for appeal, and prosecutors would be successful if the case were appealed.
Goodman said he was “satisfied” with the sentences, which he said were appropriate based on the jury’s verdict.
Baldwin was restricted in the sentence he could give because the teens were only convicted on simple assault charges, Goodman said.
In a telephone interview after the sentencing, Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund staff attorney Gladys Limon said the organization was “outraged that the justice system fell flat.”
“Even if they had received the maximum for simple assault, it still would not be commensurate with the crimes committed,” Limon said.
There is still a possibility of federal charges against the teens.
The U.S. Department of Justice has confirmed its Civil Rights Division has an ongoing investigation into the case, but has not released further details.
Civil rights organizations, like the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund and the Anti-Defamation League, as well as state politicians, including Rendell and the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus, have called upon the Department of Justice to pursue charges against Donchak and Piekarsky.
Charges, including third-degree murder, against a third teen involved in the incident, Colin J. Walsh, 17, of Shenandoah Heights, were dropped April 17 because Walsh entered a guilty plea in federal court to charges under the Fair Housing Act.
“It doesn’t matter if Mr. Ramirez was Latino, white, black or purple. This kind of violence in the streets of Schuylkill County is not going to be tolerated,” Schuylkill County President Judge William E. Baldwin said.
Brandon J. Piekarsky, 17, of Shenandoah Heights, and Derrick M. Donchak, 19, of Shenandoah, were convicted of simple assault May 1 for their role in the beating death of Ramirez, an illegal Mexican immigrant who died July 14, 2008, after injuries suffered two days earlier.
Donchak was also found guilty of three counts of corruption of minors and three counts of furnishing alcohol to minors.
They were sentenced Wednesday afternoon at a hearing before Baldwin in Courtroom No. 1 of the Schuylkill County Courthouse, Pottsville.
On the simple assault charges, Piekarsky was sentenced to six to 23 months and Donchak was sentenced to six to 20 months. The maximum sentence for the second-degree misdemeanor is one to two years.
On the three counts of corruption of minors, Donchak was sentenced to one to three months each. The maximum sentence for the first-degree misdemeanor charge is two to five years.
He will serve the corruption of minors sentences concurrently but consecutively to the simple assault sentence, bringing his total sentence to seven to 23 months.
On the three counts of furnishing alcohol to minors, Donchak was sentenced to 12 months probation. The maximum sentence for the third-degree misdemeanor charge is six to 12 months.
Piekarsky received a $200 fine and was sentenced to seven days in prison for an underage drinking citation because it was his second offense.
For his underage drinking citation, Donchak received only a $300 fine.
The teens were ordered to pay a joint cost of $4,572.65 in additional fees.
Piekarsky has 33 days of credit to his sentence for previous time served, and Donchak has one day.
Baldwin rendered the sentences at the conclusion of a nearly two-hour hearing in which character witnesses including family friends, teachers and sports coaches spoke for the teens, while the prosecution read a letter from Ramirez’s mother and called his fiancee, Crystal Dillman, to address the court.
Neither of the teens testified at their trial or spoke during the hearing, and Ramirez’s mother and Dillman accused them of having no remorse for their actions.
Piekarsky’s attorney, Frederick J. Fanelli, said the teen did not want to speak publicly because of the remaining possibility of federal charges, and that was not a sign of a lack of remorse.
Despite this, Baldwin said the teens’ actions showed no remorse, and in particular noted that Donchak had worn a “Border Patrol” T-shirt to a Halloween party a few months after the incident.
“It looks like he’s bragging about it,” Baldwin said, to which Donchak shook his head.
Donchak’s father, who had testified as a character witness, had said Donchak had a large collection of law enforcement shirts and had simply thrown one on when giving a friend a ride to the party.
Baldwin also referenced testimony from Piekarsky’s coaches about his character.
“There was testimony about (Piekarsky) being a team leader,” Baldwin said. “He was the leader of the team that night, and he attacked Luis Ramirez.”
The teens must report to prison by 9 a.m. July 19.
The teens were acquitted of the most serious charges against them, including one count of third-degree murder for Piekarsky and one count of ethnic intimidation each for Piekarsky and Donchak, brought on by allegations that racial slurs were yelled during the beating.
Before delivering his sentence, Baldwin said he had to put aside outside influences — like Gov. Ed Rendell’s letter calling for the maximum sentence on all charges and pressure from civil rights groups — and that he could not factor in Ramirez’s death because neither of the defendants had actually been convicted of homicide.
“There’s been a lot of talk about this as a street fight gone bad,” Baldwin said. “I don’t know what that is. This wasn’t any fight. This was a group of young athletes ganging up on one person.”
Baldwin also said the teens didn’t know Ramirez was an illegal immigrant, but if they did, that the penalty for illegal immigration is “deportation, not execution.”
“If it wasn’t motivated by ethnic intimidation, it was plain meanness,” Baldwin said. “You don’t kick a man when he’s down.”
Jeffrey M. Markosky, defense counsel for Donchak, said he and Fanelli, were “disappointed” by the sentence, and would discuss the possibility of an appeal in the coming days.
Schuylkill County District Attorney James P. Goodman said his office was confident there are not many grounds for appeal, and prosecutors would be successful if the case were appealed.
Goodman said he was “satisfied” with the sentences, which he said were appropriate based on the jury’s verdict.
Baldwin was restricted in the sentence he could give because the teens were only convicted on simple assault charges, Goodman said.
In a telephone interview after the sentencing, Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund staff attorney Gladys Limon said the organization was “outraged that the justice system fell flat.”
“Even if they had received the maximum for simple assault, it still would not be commensurate with the crimes committed,” Limon said.
There is still a possibility of federal charges against the teens.
The U.S. Department of Justice has confirmed its Civil Rights Division has an ongoing investigation into the case, but has not released further details.
Civil rights organizations, like the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund and the Anti-Defamation League, as well as state politicians, including Rendell and the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus, have called upon the Department of Justice to pursue charges against Donchak and Piekarsky.
Charges, including third-degree murder, against a third teen involved in the incident, Colin J. Walsh, 17, of Shenandoah Heights, were dropped April 17 because Walsh entered a guilty plea in federal court to charges under the Fair Housing Act.
| BREAKING NEWS: DA confirms federal investigation into Shenandoah police | BREAKING NEWS: Judge blasts Gov. Rendell's letter about sentencing |
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Reader Comments
The following are comments from the readers. In no way do they represent the view of republicanherald.com.
Because I care wrote on Jun 17, 2009 3:49 PM:
" I am deeply saddened by the pending incarceration of Brandon and Derrick. My heart goes out to your families and I will keep you all in my prayers. Stay strong!!! "
Archie wrote on Jun 17, 2009 3:53 PM:
" Excellent sentence. Now, if only the media and outsiders would go away
and leave us in peace. The system did
its job, the deciding factor was that Rameriz went after the teens after the
first fight, so the jury could see the self
defense part. Crystal, prepare for the birth of your new baby. "
and leave us in peace. The system did
its job, the deciding factor was that Rameriz went after the teens after the
first fight, so the jury could see the self
defense part. Crystal, prepare for the birth of your new baby. "
Unbelievable wrote on Jun 17, 2009 3:54 PM:
" This is an insult to justice. A warm, slap, actually a pat, on the wrist. Sickening.
Not even worth discussing. "
Not even worth discussing. "
moving on wrote on Jun 17, 2009 3:55 PM:
" For heavens sake now let us move on and give the young men a chance to rehabilitate. THey did not set out to kill a man that night. A street fight gone wrong. The "adult man" took off his shirt and medal to fight. "
sickened wrote on Jun 17, 2009 3:56 PM:
" To because I care ,you are saddened for them what about the person who lost his life,what about the mother that lost her son,and the children who lost their father what about them? "
rehabilitation wrote on Jun 17, 2009 3:59 PM:
" Now how about some rehabilitation for Crystal with the crimes she committed and the destruction of Shenandoah reputation she created with her lies???? AHHH to live in denial and milk the system--what a cunning mastermind. "
punishment wrote on Jun 17, 2009 4:00 PM:
" The guys needed punishment and to make restitution. So Crystal again gets to give a speech and no consequences for her illegal actions? "
bob wrote on Jun 17, 2009 4:02 PM:
" Sometime check out Bob Dylan's "the lonesome death of Hattie Carroll". Same story.
In the courtroom of honor, the judge pounded his gavel
To show that all's equal and that the courts are on the level
And that the strings in the books ain't pulled and persuaded
And that even the nobles get properly handled
Once that the cops have chased after and caught 'em
And that ladder of law has no top and no bottom
Stared at the person who killed for no reason
Who just happened to be feelin' that way witout warnin'
And he spoke through his cloak, most deep and distinguished
And handed out strongly, for penalty and repentance
William Zanzinger with a six-month sentence
Oh, but you who philosophize disgrace and criticize all fearsv
Bury the rag deep in your face
For now's the time for your tears. "
In the courtroom of honor, the judge pounded his gavel
To show that all's equal and that the courts are on the level
And that the strings in the books ain't pulled and persuaded
And that even the nobles get properly handled
Once that the cops have chased after and caught 'em
And that ladder of law has no top and no bottom
Stared at the person who killed for no reason
Who just happened to be feelin' that way witout warnin'
And he spoke through his cloak, most deep and distinguished
And handed out strongly, for penalty and repentance
William Zanzinger with a six-month sentence
Oh, but you who philosophize disgrace and criticize all fearsv
Bury the rag deep in your face
For now's the time for your tears. "
helen wrote on Jun 17, 2009 4:02 PM:
" i am glad toread that the hoodlums are going to jail now brandons mom can get married to the cop who helped the guys hide the he should get fired too please keep my e-mail private because i am a senior "
Rolling Eyes wrote on Jun 17, 2009 4:03 PM:
" At least they will have some time behind bars. If I hear one more person say they just want to move on with thier lives..guess they should have thought about that before they killed a man. To the parents of these children..hope you happy on how you raised them..bet your so proud. "
rarz wrote on Jun 17, 2009 4:04 PM:
" A simple assault resulting in a death, apparently does not warrant a maximum sentence...in Schuylkill County. Apparently you have to "simple assault" someone to death twice to get the maximum.
Nothing to see here Feds...move along. "
Nothing to see here Feds...move along. "
Prayers wrote on Jun 17, 2009 4:05 PM:
" I'll keep you all in my prayers...you people who somehow think that this was justified, you haters, you small minded people who are afraid of people whose skin color differs, those of you who have no sins of your own and sit in judgment of the choices of others, and for all the mothers who sons were affected by the poor choices in this situation. I will also pray that someday we will all recognize that we are ALL human beings, created equal in GOD's eyes, and that not one of us has the right to determine legal or illegal. Unless, of course, one of you has been awarded special skills by God, and you suddenly are infallible. I think Jesus said it best...those without sin can cast the first stone. I am glad I'm not perfect, because you all knowing and judgmental people scare me. "
Rolling Eyes wrote on Jun 17, 2009 4:05 PM:
" To Because I Care..get over yourself..I don't pitty them one bit. "
Where wrote on Jun 17, 2009 4:09 PM:
" If Crystal was there, where was the other fiancee? Didn't she get to say anything? How much time is Dillman geting for welfare fraud and harboring an illegal? When should we expect answers to these questions? "
rediculas wrote on Jun 17, 2009 4:12 PM:
" I just want to know what a street fight gone wrong means? So if I drink and get into a car and kill a child god forbid I should not be held responsible because "is just went bad?" that is the stupidest thing i have ever heard someone say.
We are responsible for our actions deliberate or not. "
We are responsible for our actions deliberate or not. "
all guilty wrote on Jun 17, 2009 4:18 PM:
" THey are all guilty and responsible, including Luis, they all could have walked away. "
Im Sick wrote on Jun 17, 2009 4:18 PM:
" of the bad mouths of both the boys. It was a fight gone wrong! NOT a hate crime!!!! Let me ask all these people that were for this illegal are you all going to be paying for the babies that Crystal has...how about the minor he got pregnant. He DID NOT BELONG HERE!! I'm sick and tired of working for people that live off the system and hide illegals...let the people who think these boys should get more of a punishment pay for the people sponging off our system and housing illegals... What the heck you guys can shoot your mouths off pay for them! THEY DON'T BELONG HERE!!! "
moving on wrote on Jun 17, 2009 4:22 PM:
" Too Rolling Eyes: Yes, that is what it is called, moving on. They made a huge mistake. They weren't a gang walking around with weapons and drug dealin. They need a big second chance. That is why the system is in place. If everyone who made mistakes/bad choices was not given a chance to be a PRODUCTIVE citzen again, our world would be even worse. Good luck I say to them and they do have a chance for a future. "
LOVE wrote on Jun 17, 2009 4:24 PM:
" There are innocent children involved here. I hope they have some type of chance to grow up to be ok. I just wonder through this all. How much did Crystal really know about Luis hidden life? Could she really have loved him? "
the max sentence wrote on Jun 17, 2009 4:31 PM:
" I mean really, what would be the true max sentence for these young guys I ask? Rationale answers only. They were obviously immature and the drinking did not help. But, Luis was equally as immature and calling for all kind of back up. I say the sentence was correct. Don't forget the feds are right around the corner with their decision making also. "
Embarassed wrote on Jun 17, 2009 4:32 PM:
" To rehabilitation, Shenandoah did not have much of a reputation to lose, but the young men have made me embarassed to say I live anywhere in Schuylkill County. I also agree there is something odd about the cop's and Brandon's mother orchestrating the reporting of the crime and hiding evidence. Perhaps they also should have been prosecuted. Let's hope they will learn from their mistakes and become productive citizens. Brandon better get into a program, already convicted twice of underage drinking and only 17 years old. His Mother must
be horrified at his behavior. Let's hope they will learn from their mistakes and become productive citizens. "
be horrified at his behavior. Let's hope they will learn from their mistakes and become productive citizens. "
street fight wrote on Jun 17, 2009 4:48 PM:
" I would say a street fight is some immature people, boredom, bad fate, illegitimate acts(hangin with a minor), poor communication, drinkin, testosterone, cultural differences, poor judgement all causing the worst outcome. I would say an act of real violence would be: premeditation, hidden weapons, true gang behavior, repeated criminal acts and possible dru dealin. "
medical treatment wrote on Jun 17, 2009 4:50 PM:
" Huge national issue illegals entitlement to free health care. "
Round About wrote on Jun 17, 2009 4:50 PM:
" To Sickened: You sicken me. What about all the illegals sucking off the school system, welfare system, and getting free healthcare on our tax dollars and taking your counties jobs, Wake Up! "
JRM wrote on Jun 17, 2009 4:53 PM:
" Have you been wondering how Obama plans to radically change U.S immigration policy and enforcement? What his "master plan" may be in light of the recent, complete halting of all enforcement?
Recent actions by the administration and Congress show clear signs that we could be facing an amnesty bill as early as this fall:
Postponing use of popular programs that ensure that new jobs go to legally-eligible citizens (see E-Verify).
Meeting at the White House to address a strategy for "comprehensive immigration reform."
Choosing an enforcement program that identifies criminal aliens ONLY after a crime has been committed.
Reintroducing laws meant to give preference to students in the country illegally (see DREAM Act).
Reforming healthcare to cover millions of uninsured - many of which are illegal aliens.
Nominating a candidate to the U.S. Supreme Court with past connections to the National Council of La Raza and the Puerto Rican Legal Defense and Education Fund.
I don't know what else I can do to convince you that the time to act is now. We must regain control of our borders and enforce the immigration laws that are on our books. Our commitment to future generations demands no less.
Earlier today, FAIR learned that in the coming days, maybe as soon as tomorrow, the Obama Administration will announce two regulations that will dramatically undermine immigration enforcement.
The first regulation would gut a Bush Administration rule that required federal contractors -- paid with your tax dollars -- to use the E-Verify program to ensure that their employees are legally authorized to work in the U.S. FAIR expects the Obama Administration to gut this rule so that illegal aliens who are currently working for federal contractors will be able to continue in those jobs. This would give job security to illegal aliens who work for federal contractors instead of freeing that job up so that an American worker could be hired. Last week, the Bureau of Labor Statistics announced that 14.5 million Americans are out of work.
The second regulation would gut another Bush Administration rule to provide "no-match" notices to employers who have reported paying wages to people whose name and Social Security number don't match. As the Department of Homeland Security said in October: "One private study concluded that 'most workers with unmatched SSNs are undocumented immigrants.'" The Bush Administration proposed a rule to instruct employers how to deal with the "no-match" letters to ensure that employers don't continue to employ illegal aliens. By gutting this rule, not only would illegal aliens be allowed to continue in their jobs but the Obama Administration would also be turning a blind eye to those illegal aliens who are committing felony identity theft by using the Social Security number of an American citizen or legal immigrant!
It is politics that determine who our elected officials are.
It is politics that keeps our border open and our Immigration laws unenforced.
It is politics that keeps our taxes high.
It is politics that allows our treasury to be robbed.
It is politics that is allowing Socialism, Marxism and other anti-
American isms to pervert our homeland.
The silent majority can no longer depend on our representatives to represent us.
We must begin to represent ourselves by physically moving into the political arena and taking over all the positions that we can. Including dog catcher.
We (patriots) need to become the Mayors, the County Executives, the Prosecutors, the Judges, the Governors, the Senators and House Representatives and finally the President.
Certainly the process has begun.
And we do have a handful of representatives and government officials around the country that are Patriots
We have some Patriots running for political office; just to name two.
Steve Lonegan in NJ who ran for governor and Chris Simcox, co-founder of the Minuteman who is challenging John McCain for Senator.
Mayor Steve Lonegan put up a tremendous effort against the Republican establishment . With a stronger political base he could have won.
And this is what needs to be done.
We need a strong political base in order to control our homeland.
The so called silent majority needs to move out of their homes and offices and activate themselves.
"War is nothing but the continuation of politics by other means" "
Recent actions by the administration and Congress show clear signs that we could be facing an amnesty bill as early as this fall:
Postponing use of popular programs that ensure that new jobs go to legally-eligible citizens (see E-Verify).
Meeting at the White House to address a strategy for "comprehensive immigration reform."
Choosing an enforcement program that identifies criminal aliens ONLY after a crime has been committed.
Reintroducing laws meant to give preference to students in the country illegally (see DREAM Act).
Reforming healthcare to cover millions of uninsured - many of which are illegal aliens.
Nominating a candidate to the U.S. Supreme Court with past connections to the National Council of La Raza and the Puerto Rican Legal Defense and Education Fund.
I don't know what else I can do to convince you that the time to act is now. We must regain control of our borders and enforce the immigration laws that are on our books. Our commitment to future generations demands no less.
Earlier today, FAIR learned that in the coming days, maybe as soon as tomorrow, the Obama Administration will announce two regulations that will dramatically undermine immigration enforcement.
The first regulation would gut a Bush Administration rule that required federal contractors -- paid with your tax dollars -- to use the E-Verify program to ensure that their employees are legally authorized to work in the U.S. FAIR expects the Obama Administration to gut this rule so that illegal aliens who are currently working for federal contractors will be able to continue in those jobs. This would give job security to illegal aliens who work for federal contractors instead of freeing that job up so that an American worker could be hired. Last week, the Bureau of Labor Statistics announced that 14.5 million Americans are out of work.
The second regulation would gut another Bush Administration rule to provide "no-match" notices to employers who have reported paying wages to people whose name and Social Security number don't match. As the Department of Homeland Security said in October: "One private study concluded that 'most workers with unmatched SSNs are undocumented immigrants.'" The Bush Administration proposed a rule to instruct employers how to deal with the "no-match" letters to ensure that employers don't continue to employ illegal aliens. By gutting this rule, not only would illegal aliens be allowed to continue in their jobs but the Obama Administration would also be turning a blind eye to those illegal aliens who are committing felony identity theft by using the Social Security number of an American citizen or legal immigrant!
It is politics that determine who our elected officials are.
It is politics that keeps our border open and our Immigration laws unenforced.
It is politics that keeps our taxes high.
It is politics that allows our treasury to be robbed.
It is politics that is allowing Socialism, Marxism and other anti-
American isms to pervert our homeland.
The silent majority can no longer depend on our representatives to represent us.
We must begin to represent ourselves by physically moving into the political arena and taking over all the positions that we can. Including dog catcher.
We (patriots) need to become the Mayors, the County Executives, the Prosecutors, the Judges, the Governors, the Senators and House Representatives and finally the President.
Certainly the process has begun.
And we do have a handful of representatives and government officials around the country that are Patriots
We have some Patriots running for political office; just to name two.
Steve Lonegan in NJ who ran for governor and Chris Simcox, co-founder of the Minuteman who is challenging John McCain for Senator.
Mayor Steve Lonegan put up a tremendous effort against the Republican establishment . With a stronger political base he could have won.
And this is what needs to be done.
We need a strong political base in order to control our homeland.
The so called silent majority needs to move out of their homes and offices and activate themselves.
"War is nothing but the continuation of politics by other means" "
skook wrote on Jun 17, 2009 4:54 PM:
" Only in Schuylkill County can you kill a man and get away with it! "
Kathy wrote on Jun 17, 2009 5:12 PM:
" LOVE - how much does anyone really know about the person they are with???
Why is Crystal even being mentioned?
For now things are ok, but do you really think these kids will ever have a quite normal safe life?
Simple assault ..These boys still have to answer to the Lord one day! "
Why is Crystal even being mentioned?
For now things are ok, but do you really think these kids will ever have a quite normal safe life?
Simple assault ..These boys still have to answer to the Lord one day! "
Skook Native wrote on Jun 17, 2009 5:44 PM:
" Yepperz: Shoplifters should get more time because they intend to break the law! Does someone's insurance premium go from $500 to $50,000 because of the severity of the accident? No! "
TooFunny wrote on Jun 17, 2009 5:45 PM:
" What a mess, what kind of lesson does this teach the rest of the kids these days, NOTHING, they got off EASY! And COUNTY JAIL at that, What a joke. Lets go Feds we need someone to bring justice to this area cause our county officials, judge baldwin and the corrupt Shenandoah Police all need to be thrown out and real law abiding, law FOLLOWING people put in. No respect for the people involved has been gained here. "
moneytalks wrote on Jun 17, 2009 5:48 PM:
" look at this a guy selling pot get 23 months in jail and a guy who kills a mexican gets 6 months..wow..i certainly hope the county jail ha a good mexican community. and you people who are shedding tears over this, wake up and see what you are doing. you people are saying its ok to kill a guy. the guy who head butted his girlfriend in the leg will get more time. again another stupid arrest by the incredible police depts up here. bunch of morons...now the mother who is seeing the cop congrats i guess your "perks" paid off.!! "
not so fast wrote on Jun 17, 2009 5:50 PM:
" to moving on..you think they deserved a 2nd chance for killing a guy..whats your opinion of a guy who sells pot and with no criminal or juvie record. does he deserve a 2nd chance or incarceration? "
Willis wrote on Jun 17, 2009 5:58 PM:
" Wrong place wrong time... To you parents out there teach your kids not to fight, because something like this may happen...Nobody wins in this situation.. "
totally disgusted wrote on Jun 17, 2009 6:01 PM:
" Just read todays paper a Shenandoah man was convicted of more serious crimes for pushing his girlfriend in front of a moving car. And she wasn't even hurt. These teens got off with just a slap on the wrist due to who they are and an investigation that was botched from the start. Hope they get charged by the feds. "
disgusted wrote on Jun 17, 2009 6:06 PM:
" THIS is why the press was not allowed into graduation because of the HUGE cover up Shenandoah Valley pulled off by showing all the kids of SV that it actually PAYS to break the law and even kill someone because the superintendant didnt want everyone to know that these guilty young men, especially the ever arrogant mr donchak were all actually allowed into graduation. Small town school, small town mentality and its what your last name is and who you know that makes you who you are, not the kind of person you truly are.
Dispicable and disgusting, the school administrators and the parents of these kids should all be ashamed of yourselves for showing the rest of your student body that its ok to break the law and get away with it as long as you know someone. Hopefully the Feds will come in here and tear everyone from the accused to the borough manageer, to the cops and the school administration a new one and clean house. Please Feds your our last hope here. "
Dispicable and disgusting, the school administrators and the parents of these kids should all be ashamed of yourselves for showing the rest of your student body that its ok to break the law and get away with it as long as you know someone. Hopefully the Feds will come in here and tear everyone from the accused to the borough manageer, to the cops and the school administration a new one and clean house. Please Feds your our last hope here. "
notfrom462 wrote on Jun 17, 2009 6:09 PM:
" To Moving On:
Not true! he did NOT remove the medal!
Read the very first articles that appeared when the story broke, the archived files and u will see that they hit him so hard, that they left the imprint of the medla on his chest. "
Not true! he did NOT remove the medal!
Read the very first articles that appeared when the story broke, the archived files and u will see that they hit him so hard, that they left the imprint of the medla on his chest. "
cathy wrote on Jun 17, 2009 6:19 PM:
" I"ve asked this question since the start of the trial, I haven't received an answer yet. Probably won't make it in, but I'll ask again and maybe some honest person will answer: When did It become LEGAL to be IILLEGAL? "
Me wrote on Jun 17, 2009 6:48 PM:
" Thats a Fair Trial..Now Lets all move on...we can finally go to the junkyard in peace now....Do something about the illegals!!! "
dfg wrote on Jun 17, 2009 6:49 PM:
" So you can kill somewhere in PA and even if an accident, it is not considered murder or manslaughter? Wow, I imagine pot smokers that are caught get more time. It may have been an accident, but they killed a human, no matter where he came from and for that, in this country, you are suppose to pay. A simple assault. In a simple assault, you live through it. Good grief. They really could have just left and this man could have been deported, not dead. "
to JRM wrote on Jun 17, 2009 7:03 PM:
" to JRM - are you the same JRM who wanted to bring John de Nugent to a "anti-illegal immigration" rally? You talk about patriots...what you mean is neo-nazis and white supremacists who hide behind the flag claiming they are protecting "their" country. Sure, let's teach more hate. For those of you who have forgotten, Mr. de Nugent is the man invited to speak at the most recent rally planned for Shenandoah...who was then axed because he was a white "nationalist" - Mr. de Nugent is also the man who was connected (read: an inspiration to) to the white supremacist who killed the guard at the holocaust museum. So next time you want to support those who want "anti-illegal immigration" rallies in your town, buy yourself some white hoods, because that's what they want to bring to your town, under the guise of patriotism. Bah! "
Observer wrote on Jun 17, 2009 7:05 PM:
" Look forward to reading all about it tomorrow paper.
Excellent job, Dustin Pangonis , et al. You kept us all well informed especially during the trial, and on the edge of our seats with your live blog updates. Drama, excitment, and true reporting.
Hope you receive some kind of award and special recognition for your reporting. "
Excellent job, Dustin Pangonis , et al. You kept us all well informed especially during the trial, and on the edge of our seats with your live blog updates. Drama, excitment, and true reporting.
Hope you receive some kind of award and special recognition for your reporting. "
Jen wrote on Jun 17, 2009 7:20 PM:
" Go figure, the one that furnished the alcohol got more of a sentence than the others!!! The whole outcome was ridiculous! Only in Schuylkill County!!! They talk about Berks County & Philly being bad, this county is not any better!!! "
bull wrote on Jun 17, 2009 7:27 PM:
" i guess with these boys only getting up to 20 months means anybody can come to schuylkill county and kill someone and get away wit murder!!!HEY EVERYONE IF YOU WANT TO KILL SOMEONE AND GET AWAY WITH MURDER COME TO SCHUYLKILL COUNTY!!!!! those kids should be locked up for life. doesnt mean you can kill some one cuz they are illigal.they are still human. and one day they will have to answer to the man upstairs,sch county is so corrupt and racist "
tina wrote on Jun 17, 2009 7:44 PM:
" way to go baldwin!! if the goverment cant keep illigals out we can and GET AWAY WITH IT SO GET OUT!!!!!!!! THIS IS AMERICA NOT MEXICO GO HOME "
Dennis wrote on Jun 17, 2009 7:51 PM:
" If that girl knew this man was illegal and did not belong here he should have been turned in and his life and the boy's lifes would still be alright she should be held for harboring a fugitive from the law! "
marianne wrote on Jun 17, 2009 8:03 PM:
" The Cleveland Browns' Donte Stallworth will spend 30 days in jail for killing a man, Mario Reyes, in Miami when he drove his Bentley luxury automobile while drunk.
MALDEF - get out of Shenandoah and go to Cleveland and work for justice there if that's what you're interested in. "
MALDEF - get out of Shenandoah and go to Cleveland and work for justice there if that's what you're interested in. "
Blame Game wrote on Jun 17, 2009 8:35 PM:
" I love how everyone is to blame for this whole situation except for the boys who kicked Ramirez in the head when he was down... Crystal, MALDEF, Rendell, Obama, the mailman etc.... all brought shame to Shenandoah on purpose. Ha! "
just dont speak wrote on Jun 17, 2009 8:54 PM:
" I guess as long as you don't speak when you kill some one it is okay. Maybe we can all have the cops hide our crimes, make twisted the testimony of witneeses to suit our needs and get away with murder! There is no justice in this county! "
disgusted wrote on Jun 17, 2009 9:07 PM:
" THIS is why the press was not allowed into graduation because of the HUGE cover up Shenandoah Valley pulled off by showing all the kids of SV that it actually PAYS to break the law and even kill someone because the superintendant didnt want everyone to know that these guilty young men, especially the ever arrogant mr donchak were all actually allowed into graduation. Small town school, small town mentality and its what your last name is and who you know that makes you who you are, not the kind of person you truly are.
Dispicable and disgusting, the school administrators and the parents of these kids should all be ashamed of yourselves for showing the rest of your student body that its ok to break the law and get away with it as long as you know someone. Hopefully the Feds will come in here and tear everyone from the accused to the borough manageer, to the cops and the school administration a new one and clean house. Please Feds your our last hope here. "
Dispicable and disgusting, the school administrators and the parents of these kids should all be ashamed of yourselves for showing the rest of your student body that its ok to break the law and get away with it as long as you know someone. Hopefully the Feds will come in here and tear everyone from the accused to the borough manageer, to the cops and the school administration a new one and clean house. Please Feds your our last hope here. "
mama wrote on Jun 17, 2009 10:33 PM:
" Oh for real, of course its not "okay" for anyone to KILL anyone! They're being punished..yes I believe the punishment is "lenient" compared to other sentences, but WILL YOU ALL PLEASE quit griping about the boys & try to give a little attention to the grown man & father in this mess. Yes, I feel sorry for his family but WHAT was he doing @ a blockparty/out hangin around while he had kids @ home? This man sounds as if he was TOTALLY immature, no kind of example it seems for his kids..no he didnt deserve to die but being the adult in the situation, he certainly shouldn't have instigated a fight w/3 people of ANY age. The boys actions were definately WRONG. I believe they got caught in the heat of the moment & unintentionally took things too far. Anyone knows even during a verbal argument, you can say things you either dont remember/fully regret later. And no one expects you to pay for it for the rest of your life! It was, I believe a very BAD MISTAKE, yes, they could've walked away, but lets not forget they arent even adults yet. WHo hasnt made BAD choices/mistakes in their lives? No one is perfect. Let them do their time for their choices. Hopefully they will learn their lesson. And remember their sentence may seem short, but to a teen...it will feel like a lifetime without all the amentities that they are used to! No out w/friends, no parties, no mall, no beach this summer, no cell phone-that might be the worst! Just think, when you were a teenager, you didnt even think past tomorrow night! No knock to their intelligence but come on, they're young & dumb & who wasnt? Sure this is to a high degree but take solace..they ARE being punished. You can't exuse the fact that a life was lost in this mess all we can do is learn from it. No amount of could haves & should haves will change the past! "
OH WELL wrote on Jun 17, 2009 10:34 PM:
" The 2 young men should have gotten 0 days in jail. So much for defending yourself huh? I'm still waiting for charges to be brought against dillman but seeing she's the so-called grieving fiancee of a child molester who fathered her 15 year old sisters' baby, that will never happen !!! That's where the injustice lies. dillman frauded the whole town by accepting money donated that she IS NOT EVEN entitled to get. Also, the church money was wasted sending him back home. He should have left this country by walking out of it instead of being carried out !!! I'm still wondering how there was the imprint mark of his medallion on his chest from "being kicked on his chest" when dillmans' clan testified he took off his shirt and necklace before the fight ???!!! That's just 1 of the dozen lies "his people" testified to. "
tonotfrom462 wrote on Jun 17, 2009 10:35 PM:
" I think he removed the medal and then put it back on and was leaving because he thought the fight was over...but the jury makes it seem like he went back to fight...if he wasn't finished, he would not have put the medal back on ...but like all the facts in this case..they were changed to benefit the assaulters, not the victims. I think the jury missed alot of evidence because they already had them minds set on innocent. Hopefully the Justice Dept. can sort thru the truth and realize that the trial wasn't a fair one. I do admire Baldwin for making the comments he made about the case during sentencing...he did not make light of the crime but said how it really was...I think the jury failed here and I think the judge could have gone with the maximum sentences for each conviction and maybe people would be at peace with the verdict. "
Blue Devil wrote on Jun 17, 2009 10:46 PM:
" I was born and raised in Shenandoah, and have always been proud of my home town. Brought lots of college friends home, brought my own family there, everyone loved it.
And now, watching this monstrous event unfold, and watching what a mess the prosecutor made of the case, I am still shocked at the outcome.
To you birdbrains who are so tangled up in your ignorance and hate you can't even spell correctly, the penalty for being in the US illegally is deportation. It is NOT murder, and who do you think made those young thugs Ramirez's judges, jury, and executioners?
They took the law into their own hands and murdered a man in cold blood. It takes real men to gang up on one guy, real honest-to-God men.
Now, I am ashamed of my home town. Going along with the verdict, I've read these comments, and the filth, the ignorance, the hatred is just appalling. My friends from all over the country see the people from Shenandoah as worse than the most inbred hillbillies - just a bunch of redneck dropouts without a clue. And, to my great sadness, I have to agree with them.
I hope the Feds continue their investigation, and I hope these yonkos get nailed by them. These murderers - because that's what they are, what they'll always be - deserve nothing less than doing hard time in a Federal penitentiary. I'd like to see how they'd deal with the Hispanic gangs in the slammer. They surely wouldn't be the big, strong guys who were so tough it took them all to kill one man, who was down on the ground.
And, not to be vindictive, because I don't like to think like that, but I can't help it. If something like this ever happens to one of their loved ones, I'd remind them what my old bapci used to say, that what goes around comes around.
That would be justice. And now that boy's mother can marry her cop boyfriend, and everything will be all tied up, nice and neat.
Now I don't want to tell anyone where I was born, and I'm glad my children got to spend time there with their grandparents, who are now deceased, and got to enjoy a lot of the things I loved so much when I was a kid. It would have been nice if my grandchildren could someday have visited Shenandoah and had the same kind of wonderful experience, but I'd never allow it.
I'd send them anywhere but Shenandoah. And this is a heartbreaking admission to make, but the people there who are spewing the hate, even with a murdered man in their history forever, aren't fit to be with civilized humans. They need to be left alone, and, soon enough, maybe they'll be swallowed up when another subsidence takes place, or else a mine fire will just put them out of their misery.
Shame on Shenandoah, and for the good people who still live there, the good ones who realize what a joke the trial and these sentences are, you have my sympathies. "
And now, watching this monstrous event unfold, and watching what a mess the prosecutor made of the case, I am still shocked at the outcome.
To you birdbrains who are so tangled up in your ignorance and hate you can't even spell correctly, the penalty for being in the US illegally is deportation. It is NOT murder, and who do you think made those young thugs Ramirez's judges, jury, and executioners?
They took the law into their own hands and murdered a man in cold blood. It takes real men to gang up on one guy, real honest-to-God men.
Now, I am ashamed of my home town. Going along with the verdict, I've read these comments, and the filth, the ignorance, the hatred is just appalling. My friends from all over the country see the people from Shenandoah as worse than the most inbred hillbillies - just a bunch of redneck dropouts without a clue. And, to my great sadness, I have to agree with them.
I hope the Feds continue their investigation, and I hope these yonkos get nailed by them. These murderers - because that's what they are, what they'll always be - deserve nothing less than doing hard time in a Federal penitentiary. I'd like to see how they'd deal with the Hispanic gangs in the slammer. They surely wouldn't be the big, strong guys who were so tough it took them all to kill one man, who was down on the ground.
And, not to be vindictive, because I don't like to think like that, but I can't help it. If something like this ever happens to one of their loved ones, I'd remind them what my old bapci used to say, that what goes around comes around.
That would be justice. And now that boy's mother can marry her cop boyfriend, and everything will be all tied up, nice and neat.
Now I don't want to tell anyone where I was born, and I'm glad my children got to spend time there with their grandparents, who are now deceased, and got to enjoy a lot of the things I loved so much when I was a kid. It would have been nice if my grandchildren could someday have visited Shenandoah and had the same kind of wonderful experience, but I'd never allow it.
I'd send them anywhere but Shenandoah. And this is a heartbreaking admission to make, but the people there who are spewing the hate, even with a murdered man in their history forever, aren't fit to be with civilized humans. They need to be left alone, and, soon enough, maybe they'll be swallowed up when another subsidence takes place, or else a mine fire will just put them out of their misery.
Shame on Shenandoah, and for the good people who still live there, the good ones who realize what a joke the trial and these sentences are, you have my sympathies. "
crazyness wrote on Jun 17, 2009 10:52 PM:
" Sentencing guidelines called for up to 23 months and they're getting 6??? am I reading this right? They throw DUI guys in jail for 3 months at the drop of a hat who:
1. didnt kill anyone
2. didnt cost the county 10's of thousands of dollars for a trial
3. draw negative national media attention on our county.
Is this crazyness or am I wrong here? Baldwin should be disrobed for this one! I guess if all they can squeeze out of these two kids is $4600 in costs why bother putting them in jail at the tax payers expense for any longer than the minimum. Our justice system has failed. "
1. didnt kill anyone
2. didnt cost the county 10's of thousands of dollars for a trial
3. draw negative national media attention on our county.
Is this crazyness or am I wrong here? Baldwin should be disrobed for this one! I guess if all they can squeeze out of these two kids is $4600 in costs why bother putting them in jail at the tax payers expense for any longer than the minimum. Our justice system has failed. "
JoKo wrote on Jun 17, 2009 11:09 PM:
" I am so disgusted with this county- where is the justice? A human life was taken- the fact that he was illegal is irrelevent. His life was not worth any less than mine or the next guy's.
Anyone who feels differently, just ask yourself, if you needed a blood transfusion to save your life, would you refuse it if the person who willingly donated that blood was illegal? I think not.
Rimirez was someone's son, someone's daddy and now he's gone. The "boys" that took his life got nothing more than a slap on the hands. Sure, they were minimumly sentenced but without doubt they will appeal it with hope of getting probation- and what bothers me me is they will probably get it- after all this is Schuylkill County.
It amazes me that a person can do more jail time for a bar fight- for possession of paraphenalia-for a DUI - the list goes on.
I would also like to comment on Donchalk's remark when asked by WNEP if he had any comments and he responded with a snickering "just leave me alone"- leave him alone???? He put himself in this situation.
I do not feel sorry for those "boys" - nor their parents defending them. What if their "boys" went to Mexico on spring break and died in a "street fight gone bad"- would they not want their sons murderers to be punished to the fullest extent of the law? "
Anyone who feels differently, just ask yourself, if you needed a blood transfusion to save your life, would you refuse it if the person who willingly donated that blood was illegal? I think not.
Rimirez was someone's son, someone's daddy and now he's gone. The "boys" that took his life got nothing more than a slap on the hands. Sure, they were minimumly sentenced but without doubt they will appeal it with hope of getting probation- and what bothers me me is they will probably get it- after all this is Schuylkill County.
It amazes me that a person can do more jail time for a bar fight- for possession of paraphenalia-for a DUI - the list goes on.
I would also like to comment on Donchalk's remark when asked by WNEP if he had any comments and he responded with a snickering "just leave me alone"- leave him alone???? He put himself in this situation.
I do not feel sorry for those "boys" - nor their parents defending them. What if their "boys" went to Mexico on spring break and died in a "street fight gone bad"- would they not want their sons murderers to be punished to the fullest extent of the law? "
What Makes Me Laugh wrote on Jun 17, 2009 11:12 PM:
" I read all the comments and everyone expresses so much anger and hate towards Crystal. Why I ask? The only reason I can come up with is because she did not allow this to be swept under the carpet. WAY TO GO CRYSTAL! I do believe in some parts she did go a little exreme...(selling your story to people magazine was pathetic sorry!) About the whole food stamp thing I don't know if she gets them because I don't live with her and neither do you all. Everyone goes off of what they hear....and they ASSUME(what does assume mean). And if she does get welfare it is because she qualifies for it. How can she possibly have welfare fraud when you all know her business Lol. I think half of Shenandoah knows more about her than she knows about herself.
I do think its funny that you all say illegal this illegal that.....Is it not illegal for minors to be drinking? Oh wait they are white its ok. He was illegal and he was a provider for his family. a lot more than most people can say (i.e. deadbeat dads). He was seeing her sister and what no one else has skeletons in their closets. Is that why maybe no one posts their real names because they don't want other people to bring out their skeletons? Just asking.
I truly feel bad for Crystal, her children and his mother and rest of the family. The murders will also one day be tried before God. He will give the final punishment. Now it seems like others get a good laugh but remember Crystal you will get the best laugh in the end. Hang in there and straighten out for your kids. DOn't worry about what people say because people will always talk.....talk is cheap and ALWAYS consider the source. Take care of the kids and God bless you y la familia de Luis Ramirez Descanse en paz. "
I do think its funny that you all say illegal this illegal that.....Is it not illegal for minors to be drinking? Oh wait they are white its ok. He was illegal and he was a provider for his family. a lot more than most people can say (i.e. deadbeat dads). He was seeing her sister and what no one else has skeletons in their closets. Is that why maybe no one posts their real names because they don't want other people to bring out their skeletons? Just asking.
I truly feel bad for Crystal, her children and his mother and rest of the family. The murders will also one day be tried before God. He will give the final punishment. Now it seems like others get a good laugh but remember Crystal you will get the best laugh in the end. Hang in there and straighten out for your kids. DOn't worry about what people say because people will always talk.....talk is cheap and ALWAYS consider the source. Take care of the kids and God bless you y la familia de Luis Ramirez Descanse en paz. "
backwardnikomahs wrote on Jun 17, 2009 11:22 PM:
" According to the constitution of the US case closed. The feds have no legal right to file BS charges against anyone. Then again nothing this monster called the federal government is does legal. If they decide to stick their shylock noses in the business of this area the people should not take it laying down and do what ever necessary to show these dogs what the coal region is all about!! "
Giant Rolo wrote on Jun 18, 2009 12:32 AM:
" I hope when I go bizerk and start killing people, I only get 6 months in county. "
Color Blind wrote on Jun 18, 2009 1:04 AM:
" TO BLUE DEVIL : Thanks especially to you from me. We share the exact opinion about what happened here. the only difference being that I came back to take care of my ill mother. Now that she is better, I could not dare leave her here to live out her last days among these unkind, and unhappy, hypocrites. The Mexicans have been here over 30 years without making any huge problems or commiting any murders. The white kids have gotten so cocky (from being protected by these corrupt police and parents) that they refuse to be polite in any circumstance, such as standing in line at the grocery store. They behave like everyone else is beneath them and they just don't care about anyone around but themselves.All these people need are the robes and hoods. Blue Devil, you are right to feel bad for the good people living here still. We all feel bad, especially for the elderly that are scared to go out now. FBI, please be successful in your mission here ! ! ! ! Blue Devil, your grandchildren will not miss a thing ! ! Peace and love to you where ever you live ! ! "
MH wrote on Jun 18, 2009 3:08 AM:
" Wow! I'm shocked and embarrassed that there are still towns like Shenandoah in 21st century America. But most Americans see the real truth. A racist town protected their own in a brutality that disgusted the rest of the country. I hope the DOJ investigates the situation so the family of the victim can get the justice it deserves. "
upset wrote on Jun 18, 2009 6:42 AM:
" Every one always said if you want to kill some-one just come to schuylkill county. I think those two men should have a mexican as a cell mate. Like I say the system can't judge only GOD will judge those two boys. So it is ok to kill a person in a street fight and get away with it, lol.... this is schuykill county for you............. "
penny wrote on Jun 18, 2009 7:07 AM:
" judge baldwin you should be assamed of your sentance. the "boys" committed murder not simple assult .you need to get off the bench.when you throw my son in jail for 9years to18years for a breaking and entering charge iM sorry but there is something wrong here. the "boys" should be up state along side my son. a man is dead and gone how can that be simple assult. schuylkill co. makes me sick. "
Genial Jack wrote on Jun 18, 2009 8:16 AM:
" Did these bad boys not preserve the virtue of a 15 year old damsel in distress?
What would have happened to an American in a similar situation in Mexico? (Just imagine, but don't go there to find out).
And, please don't forget the governor's intrusion into the case.
Urge your "leaders" to support E-Verify today to prevent theft of your SS number. "
What would have happened to an American in a similar situation in Mexico? (Just imagine, but don't go there to find out).
And, please don't forget the governor's intrusion into the case.
Urge your "leaders" to support E-Verify today to prevent theft of your SS number. "
Carson wrote on Jun 18, 2009 8:38 AM:
" I think they should uphold the rule of law and govern by the rules set forth by the United States Constitution, as they swore they would with their oaths of office.
Back in the sixties the government came into the schools and brainwashed us with the idea we needed to control the population because it was rising so fast. They said the roads would become crowded and we would run out of things like water.
They unleashed abortions, birth control pills, and other forms of Family Planning.
To allow the country to be over run with the criminals in businesses illegal labor while the criminals in the government aid and abet the invasion is a travesty against mankind.
They have seen to it our children were killed to control the population at the same time allowing the world to export their population problems here.
What about our sacrifices, many made against our will?
P.S. We still haven't recovered from the last time the criminals in business were allowed to bring in their slaves. "
Back in the sixties the government came into the schools and brainwashed us with the idea we needed to control the population because it was rising so fast. They said the roads would become crowded and we would run out of things like water.
They unleashed abortions, birth control pills, and other forms of Family Planning.
To allow the country to be over run with the criminals in businesses illegal labor while the criminals in the government aid and abet the invasion is a travesty against mankind.
They have seen to it our children were killed to control the population at the same time allowing the world to export their population problems here.
What about our sacrifices, many made against our will?
P.S. We still haven't recovered from the last time the criminals in business were allowed to bring in their slaves. "
Carson wrote on Jun 18, 2009 8:41 AM:
" Here is my two-step plan.
We may have to kiss the keisters of the illegal invaders, it is still a felony to aid and abet them.
If some honest men and women in law enforcement, would go after the lowlifes in the government, business and the general population that have been aiding and abetting them, by the time they had enough of a handle on the job to raise their heads and look around, I don’t think many illegal aliens would still be left.
We don't need any new laws to do this either. Just some honest men and women that take their oaths of office seriously.
Finding them is the first step!
Federal Immigration and Nationality Act
Section 8 USC 1324(a)(1)(A)(iv)(b)(iii)
"Any person who . . . encourages or induces an alien to . . . reside . . . knowing or in reckless disregard of the fact that such . . . residence is . . . in violation of law, shall be punished as provided . . . for each alien in respect to whom such a violation occurs . . . fined under title 18 . . . imprisoned not more than 5 years, or both."
Section 274 felonies under the federal Immigration and Nationality Act, INA 274A(a)(1)(A):
A person (including a group of persons, business, organization, or local government) commits a federal felony when she or he:
* assists an alien s/he should reasonably know is illegally in the U.S. or who lacks employment authorization, by transporting, sheltering, or assisting him or her to obtain employment, or
* encourages that alien to remain in the U.S. by referring him or her to an employer or by acting as employer or agent for an employer in any way, or
* knowingly assists illegal aliens due to personal convictions. "
We may have to kiss the keisters of the illegal invaders, it is still a felony to aid and abet them.
If some honest men and women in law enforcement, would go after the lowlifes in the government, business and the general population that have been aiding and abetting them, by the time they had enough of a handle on the job to raise their heads and look around, I don’t think many illegal aliens would still be left.
We don't need any new laws to do this either. Just some honest men and women that take their oaths of office seriously.
Finding them is the first step!
Federal Immigration and Nationality Act
Section 8 USC 1324(a)(1)(A)(iv)(b)(iii)
"Any person who . . . encourages or induces an alien to . . . reside . . . knowing or in reckless disregard of the fact that such . . . residence is . . . in violation of law, shall be punished as provided . . . for each alien in respect to whom such a violation occurs . . . fined under title 18 . . . imprisoned not more than 5 years, or both."
Section 274 felonies under the federal Immigration and Nationality Act, INA 274A(a)(1)(A):
A person (including a group of persons, business, organization, or local government) commits a federal felony when she or he:
* assists an alien s/he should reasonably know is illegally in the U.S. or who lacks employment authorization, by transporting, sheltering, or assisting him or her to obtain employment, or
* encourages that alien to remain in the U.S. by referring him or her to an employer or by acting as employer or agent for an employer in any way, or
* knowingly assists illegal aliens due to personal convictions. "
enough already wrote on Jun 18, 2009 9:26 AM:
" I see you are still posting Penny without the aid of a dictionary. Something tells me your son did a bit more than what you are claiming. To "notfrom462", Crystal's sister testified he DID REMOVE THE MEDAL AND HIS SHIRT AND HANDED THEM TO HER. Crystal is a pathological liar and should be ashamed of herself. She has lied in court naming different men as fathers of those poor kids as well. And finally to "crazyness", no, you are not reading it right, it's a minimum of 6 months and a max of 23. "
BigT wrote on Jun 18, 2009 9:38 AM:
" How 'bout Markosky on TV saying that his client was "very upset and very sorry." Then they flash the scene to Donchak and family walking out of the courthouse smiling and laughing. They were all giddy because they know they got away with murder. 95% of Schuylkill lawyers are hacks. "
Dennis wrote on Jun 18, 2009 9:58 AM:
" Thank You Carson i have been trying to stress this point regardless of who is at fault that is the law period! "
Mike wrote on Jun 18, 2009 11:42 AM:
" I am so glad that this is finally over with. All of the condescending things I have read on these message boards will finally come to an end.
Look, I have lived in Shenandoah my whole life and we have seen our town become a ghetto in less than 10 years.
Why is that?
You can call us racists and hillbillies but your opinions of us don't matter. Unless, it will pay my mortgage or electric bill.
We are simple people who want to live a simple life.
If you don't like this area, leave. We won't stop you or miss you. "
Look, I have lived in Shenandoah my whole life and we have seen our town become a ghetto in less than 10 years.
Why is that?
You can call us racists and hillbillies but your opinions of us don't matter. Unless, it will pay my mortgage or electric bill.
We are simple people who want to live a simple life.
If you don't like this area, leave. We won't stop you or miss you. "
LOL wrote on Jun 18, 2009 12:25 PM:
" ~Mike, you said it all.........Shenandoah did turn into a ghetto..its embarassing to say I live there.
I don't think that anyone deserved to die, but if border patrol would have done their job, he wouldn't have been here to begin with.
Come on people.......we have to work everyday to earn what we have, and yet we are paying for these people to live for nothing. If they are here legally fine, but the ones who are not, should be punished. "
I don't think that anyone deserved to die, but if border patrol would have done their job, he wouldn't have been here to begin with.
Come on people.......we have to work everyday to earn what we have, and yet we are paying for these people to live for nothing. If they are here legally fine, but the ones who are not, should be punished. "
carlos santanadoah wrote on Jun 18, 2009 12:54 PM:
" To carson that is our law, and if it was enforced, Nancy Pelosi would be doing 5 yrs for her sneaky rally she had in San Francisco that was leaked out. "
Sheesh wrote on Jun 18, 2009 1:54 PM:
" To Carson, what children were killed to control the population? As for birth control, women have the right to use it if they so choose. If a woman has decided she doesn't want any children or simply any more, that is HER choice. Quit making inflamatory remarks on a subject of which you apparently know nothing. I did not know birth control pills were the governments way of controlling the population. The gov. has never forced the pills on anyone. If "unleashing" things like Family planning is your idea of bad government, I suggest you go to China where they really do limit how many children you can have. "
To Carlos Santanadoah wrote on Jun 18, 2009 2:19 PM:
" Nancy Pelosi should be tried for treason for what she said at that rally. "
A Christian..... wrote on Jun 18, 2009 2:55 PM:
" schuylkill county lives up to its reputation you can murder someone and it away with it. the hold country sees this as a misscarriage of justice but the people of schulkill county and shenaandoah dont get it. if you read in the paper that six blacks killed a white man and got simple assault charges you would be out raged or six white men killed a black you would be outraged. people of schulkill county dont have common sense that God gave them. shenandoah has the highest crime rate in the county and their is a fire in shenandoah every 3 months. maybe if they get rid of their devil worship symbols and start5 worshipping Almighty God they will have less murders and less fires. amen. "
To What Makes Me Laugh wrote on Jun 18, 2009 3:49 PM:
" No, the REAL reason everyone has such problems with her is because she had no real reason to be involved w/ this case since Luis was engaged to her pregnant 15 year old sister, and also that she was harboring an illegal, collecting all kinds of benefits, etc. ILLEGALLY! & NOT A WORD is being spoken about THAT. That's why I don't like her, since you wanted to know .. "
rest.in.peace wrote on Jun 18, 2009 4:17 PM:
" Don't you love that Donchak went to a party, only a couple months after killing a man?
A crime was committed, a life was taken, all I hope is that as of July 19, those boys start waking up to the real world: one with consequences.
And just a heads up: The United States was created and grew and became what it is today on a basis of illegal immigrants.
Not until the Statue of Liberty is teared down can the excuse for death be a man's immigration status. "
A crime was committed, a life was taken, all I hope is that as of July 19, those boys start waking up to the real world: one with consequences.
And just a heads up: The United States was created and grew and became what it is today on a basis of illegal immigrants.
Not until the Statue of Liberty is teared down can the excuse for death be a man's immigration status. "
Say What wrote on Jun 18, 2009 5:06 PM:
" What exactly did Bela Lugosi (oops, I mean Nancy Pelosi) say at that rally? Got a link or something to a transcript? "
Subach wrote on Jun 18, 2009 6:31 PM:
" All illegals let this be a warning get the hell out of here! I would love to go door to door and see who has and harbors illegals so we can get rid of them all and get our town back. This town is a crap hole full of illegals. I'm sure I can get 100 plus ppl to join me to take care of this problem since out system wont! "
Den1953 wrote on Jun 18, 2009 7:42 PM:
" What the h*ll does pelosi have to do with NE PA why don't they announce to all the illegals in town that they just won a tv when they come to collect check there papers if there illegal deport them! "
JM wrote on Jun 18, 2009 7:49 PM:
" Gov. Ed Rendell is no different than the rest of the 49 states. He saw injustice done and was outraged. I normally dont support steady Eddie but he is just outraged with schuylkill county injustice like the rest of the 49 states. Shenandoorians wake up to reality. Its a crime to murder someone eespecially 6 young men to 1... no wonder people are calling you inbreds , you dont seem toget what the rest of the nation gets. "
True American wrote on Jun 18, 2009 7:58 PM:
" Is six months enough time for murder? No! But I will say this. Piekarsky and Walsh WILL be serving time behind bars for their murderous actions.
I'm sure they expected "no jail time" for their crimes. Look at how pompous they look in these pictures. They were walking into court believing they would get off scott free. They had their little racist neighbors and teachers vouching for them in court saying "they are such good boys." They will ALWAYS be BOYS to me, these cowardly little murderers. Drunken Cowards who were six against one against someone they called out. Six against one as he lay unconscious on the ground as the biggest coward of all, Piekarky, delivered that fatal kick to the head. His crimes will lay on his soul until he meets his maker. However, the man in red hot tenny shoes will gladly welcome him into his fire filled realm. Donchak will also meet this same end, especially since he so proudly wore his Border Patrol t-shirt on the Halloween AFTER they murdered Luis. They even posted their Halloween pictures on their myspace.
What I feel good about today is that Judge Baldwin SENTENCED them to JAIL TIME. These "boys" are GOING TO JAIL!! And there is NOTHING they can do to stop it!!! They are going to serve JAIL TIME and I hope EACH DAY seems like 100 Days! I hope their DREAMS are consumed with thoughts of Luis Ramirez looking down on them to see that at least a small bit of Justice is being served for their crimes, for his murder!
I hope this will teach a lesson to ALL perpetrators of HATE CRIMES. I hope all ye who commit a Hate Crime will know, YOU WILL NO LONGER GET OFF SCOTT FREE!!! YOU ARE GOING TO JAIL! YOU ARE GOING TO SERVE TIME!!! YOUR FUTURE WILL BE DESTROYED FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIVES BECAUSE NO ONE WILL HIRE A MURDERER!!!
I HOPE ALL PERPETRATORS OF HATE CRIMES WILL KNOW AND UNDERSTAND YOU WILL BE PUNISHED! So next time.. NEXT TIME... when you even get a glimpse of a thought to commit a crime such as this, you will know.. YOU WILL BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE ! YOU WILL GO TO JAIL!!!! YOUR FUTURE WILL BE OVER!!! So think about it!! Don't Do It!! Don't commit the Crime OR you will Serve the Time!!
And, Piekarsky and Donchak. As you do go into your Jail Cell to serve your time for the MURDER you committed, think about this. Today, in a statement, the Justice Department reinforced what it said earlier, that its Civil Rights Division "IS conducting an independent review of all the facts and circumstances surrounding the July 12, 2008, beating of Mr. Ramirez that resulted in his death." The department and the FBI is conducting "a thorough and independent review of all of the evidence and take appropriate action if the evidence indicates a prosecutable violation of federal criminal civil rights statutes." SO ODDS ARE, AFTER YOU FINISH YOUR SIX MONTHS, YOU WILL BE FACING MORE TIME IN COURT AND IN PRISON!!!
God Bless America! "
I'm sure they expected "no jail time" for their crimes. Look at how pompous they look in these pictures. They were walking into court believing they would get off scott free. They had their little racist neighbors and teachers vouching for them in court saying "they are such good boys." They will ALWAYS be BOYS to me, these cowardly little murderers. Drunken Cowards who were six against one against someone they called out. Six against one as he lay unconscious on the ground as the biggest coward of all, Piekarky, delivered that fatal kick to the head. His crimes will lay on his soul until he meets his maker. However, the man in red hot tenny shoes will gladly welcome him into his fire filled realm. Donchak will also meet this same end, especially since he so proudly wore his Border Patrol t-shirt on the Halloween AFTER they murdered Luis. They even posted their Halloween pictures on their myspace.
What I feel good about today is that Judge Baldwin SENTENCED them to JAIL TIME. These "boys" are GOING TO JAIL!! And there is NOTHING they can do to stop it!!! They are going to serve JAIL TIME and I hope EACH DAY seems like 100 Days! I hope their DREAMS are consumed with thoughts of Luis Ramirez looking down on them to see that at least a small bit of Justice is being served for their crimes, for his murder!
I hope this will teach a lesson to ALL perpetrators of HATE CRIMES. I hope all ye who commit a Hate Crime will know, YOU WILL NO LONGER GET OFF SCOTT FREE!!! YOU ARE GOING TO JAIL! YOU ARE GOING TO SERVE TIME!!! YOUR FUTURE WILL BE DESTROYED FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIVES BECAUSE NO ONE WILL HIRE A MURDERER!!!
I HOPE ALL PERPETRATORS OF HATE CRIMES WILL KNOW AND UNDERSTAND YOU WILL BE PUNISHED! So next time.. NEXT TIME... when you even get a glimpse of a thought to commit a crime such as this, you will know.. YOU WILL BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE ! YOU WILL GO TO JAIL!!!! YOUR FUTURE WILL BE OVER!!! So think about it!! Don't Do It!! Don't commit the Crime OR you will Serve the Time!!
And, Piekarsky and Donchak. As you do go into your Jail Cell to serve your time for the MURDER you committed, think about this. Today, in a statement, the Justice Department reinforced what it said earlier, that its Civil Rights Division "IS conducting an independent review of all the facts and circumstances surrounding the July 12, 2008, beating of Mr. Ramirez that resulted in his death." The department and the FBI is conducting "a thorough and independent review of all of the evidence and take appropriate action if the evidence indicates a prosecutable violation of federal criminal civil rights statutes." SO ODDS ARE, AFTER YOU FINISH YOUR SIX MONTHS, YOU WILL BE FACING MORE TIME IN COURT AND IN PRISON!!!
God Bless America! "
Kazz wrote on Jun 18, 2009 10:59 PM:
" WOW!!! I only came to Schuylkill county a few years ago and in that time I have seen some major changes. You see many more colored people and many more mexicans and I think that is because of the prisons in the area. Just because they are here, legally or not doesn't justify murder..... Its the government's fault for letting them come here and giving them welfare...
The boys are apparenly spoiled brats with a bad up-bringing and know they can get away with murder... They are much worse than than the "other" races in this county. When someone has no respect for human life then they are the scum of the earth and need to be put in a state prison not county.....If you don't know right from wrong when your 17 or 18 years old then in my opinion your in big trouble. Fights are nothing more than immaturity, brutally beating someone to death is mean, vicious and sick. They will do it again and then what will everyone say? The justice system is so messed up that it is not even funny. How does it make sense that someone gets tons more time for drugs, stealing, or petty crimes?? 6 to 23 months in county prison, serving of course only 6 months for beating someone to death??? WOW what a sick judgement. People have got more time for killing an animal, hummmm wonder why!!! I am looking forward to leaving this county someday....... "
The boys are apparenly spoiled brats with a bad up-bringing and know they can get away with murder... They are much worse than than the "other" races in this county. When someone has no respect for human life then they are the scum of the earth and need to be put in a state prison not county.....If you don't know right from wrong when your 17 or 18 years old then in my opinion your in big trouble. Fights are nothing more than immaturity, brutally beating someone to death is mean, vicious and sick. They will do it again and then what will everyone say? The justice system is so messed up that it is not even funny. How does it make sense that someone gets tons more time for drugs, stealing, or petty crimes?? 6 to 23 months in county prison, serving of course only 6 months for beating someone to death??? WOW what a sick judgement. People have got more time for killing an animal, hummmm wonder why!!! I am looking forward to leaving this county someday....... "
jackie wrote on Jun 18, 2009 11:05 PM:
" "Jeffrey M. Markosky, defense counsel for Donchak, said he and Fanelli, were “disappointed” by the sentence, and would discuss the possibility of an appeal in the coming days."
less than a slap on the wrist for murdering a man, and now they're talking about an appeal?!?!?! how arrogant can you get? bring on the Federal prosecutors! "
less than a slap on the wrist for murdering a man, and now they're talking about an appeal?!?!?! how arrogant can you get? bring on the Federal prosecutors! "
To What Makes Me Laugh wrote on Jun 18, 2009 11:08 PM:
" I wouldn't post my real name because I don't want MALDEF to know who I am .. they're racist against white people :(
& no, I wouldn't say it has to do w/ "skeletons in my closet" because I certainly do not sleep with my fiance's siblings (of age OR underage). Just saying. "
& no, I wouldn't say it has to do w/ "skeletons in my closet" because I certainly do not sleep with my fiance's siblings (of age OR underage). Just saying. "
Judy Blue Eyes wrote on Jun 19, 2009 7:39 AM:
" FACT: Donchak also spent a week in Ocean City, MD a few weeks ago during senior week. His pictures are all over MySpace and half the town knew he was there. He wasn't even sentenced yet, but he left the state to party? Another fine example of how "protected" they are! "
Franklin wrote on Jun 19, 2009 7:43 AM:
" If anyone has any sense at all...GET OUT AND VOTE in the November Election! Goodman is up for re-election and the Shenandoah Mayor position is open too. Baldwin also need to be knocked off of his bench and we have the power to do it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Quit complaining and encourage everyone you know to do the same! "
NoGoChendo wrote on Jun 19, 2009 8:03 AM:
" TO BLUEDEVIL......You could not have stated it better.....AMEN! "
Rose wrote on Jun 19, 2009 8:05 AM:
" WOW. Crystal has to be the best sister in the world. The way she sat in that court room, through it all, just for her sisters fiance. LOL!!!
Let me tell you, she had to force her tears out. She was pathetic!! Her letter did NOTHING , exept make people sick. She still claimed him as " HER HUSBAND"
She is sick.....Oh and all she had with her was her fake maldef friends!!!! "
Let me tell you, she had to force her tears out. She was pathetic!! Her letter did NOTHING , exept make people sick. She still claimed him as " HER HUSBAND"
She is sick.....Oh and all she had with her was her fake maldef friends!!!! "
Judge Baldwins opinion wrote on Jun 19, 2009 8:10 AM:
" The Judge said:
He [Piekarsky] was the leader of the team that night, and he attacked Luis Ramirez.
This wasn’t any fight. This was a group of young athletes ganging up on one person.
If it wasn’t motivated by ethnic intimidation, it was plain meanness. You don’t kick a man when he’s down.
I agree with the judge on the last two. I'll trust his judgment on the first one.
What a pathetic bunch of characters are all involved. "
He [Piekarsky] was the leader of the team that night, and he attacked Luis Ramirez.
This wasn’t any fight. This was a group of young athletes ganging up on one person.
If it wasn’t motivated by ethnic intimidation, it was plain meanness. You don’t kick a man when he’s down.
I agree with the judge on the last two. I'll trust his judgment on the first one.
What a pathetic bunch of characters are all involved. "
Color Blind wrote on Jun 19, 2009 9:26 AM:
" TO JACKIE, JM, KAZZ, & REST.IN.PEACE : Great posts from all of you ! ! ! It is a real shame that the people involved do not believe in God's law. "THOU SHALL NOT KILL" They accuse me of getting on a soap box preaching when I say this on other blog pages. That is how ignorant and disrespectful they are ! ! God's law does not mean a thing to them ! ! That's why they consider themselves ABOVE THE LAW in government ! ! They don't even get that you have to be HERE FIRST to have a chance at becomming legal ! ! They don't even realize, that under the term illegal, we have other nationalities that are here. Good heads up on the STATUE OF LIBERTY !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! "
Wow what a FACT wrote on Jun 19, 2009 9:39 AM:
" Wow, Judy Blue Eyes on your comment about Donchak spending senior week last week with this year's seniors! Gee, he's mature. Gee, he knows how to lie low. Well, here's hoping he grows up real fast in prison - it's due him.
And, we still want to know if Piekarski graduated with the National Honor Society Stole around his neck? If so, that superintendent should be fired.
PlS. Way to go, Crystal. Stand strong against the racists. You're doing just fine. "
And, we still want to know if Piekarski graduated with the National Honor Society Stole around his neck? If so, that superintendent should be fired.
PlS. Way to go, Crystal. Stand strong against the racists. You're doing just fine. "
here you go wrote on Jun 19, 2009 9:47 AM:
" To "say what" here is the link for what Pelosi said, you can also find it on Youtube. http://www.therightperspective.org/2009/03/18/pelosi-calls-illegals-patriotic-ice-raids-un-american/ "
OH WELL wrote on Jun 19, 2009 10:18 AM:
" to Wow what a fact, I take it you must be overweight and/or sleep with these illegals? I don't see any other reason to side with "the molesters' fiancee #2? HAHAHAHAHAHAHA "
Mez wrote on Jun 19, 2009 10:34 AM:
" What a terrible shame for all of Schuylkill county. A hate crime, a life ended, and support for the boys that did it...... I believe in what my dad believed: Crime would be at it lowest rate in history if the person or persons that committed the crime had the exact same thing done to them as they did to others.They would think twice before doing something so stupid and mean. These "men" know exactly what they did and now they are confident that they will get away with it. They think thier above the law and laugh about it. Well what they did will follow them all their lives and it should. Why should they get another chance?
They did exactly what they wanted to do and now they get excused. My God if a person was in there home and someone came to rob, rape or hurt them you can't kill them or you would go to jail for murder!!!!!!!!! A cop told me this and said if that person is unarmed and not inside your home you can't show any kind of physical force or hurt them or you will do major jail time. So let me get this right, you can kill someone out of the street with your friends for not liking someone but you can't kill someone that is breaking in your home....... Does that make sense to anyone??? Oh yeh I bet it does to the punks who did this. I hope and pray the FEDS get true justice and show this county that crime doesn't pay.
If one of my kids did this yes I would be devistated but I would not want them to get off scott free. You do the crime you must do the time no matter who you are no matter who you know. Human life is everyone no matter what color there skin is or what race they are. Noone has the right to take that from anyone. If the FEDS don't get them then I know of someone that will in the end on Judgement Day!!! "
They did exactly what they wanted to do and now they get excused. My God if a person was in there home and someone came to rob, rape or hurt them you can't kill them or you would go to jail for murder!!!!!!!!! A cop told me this and said if that person is unarmed and not inside your home you can't show any kind of physical force or hurt them or you will do major jail time. So let me get this right, you can kill someone out of the street with your friends for not liking someone but you can't kill someone that is breaking in your home....... Does that make sense to anyone??? Oh yeh I bet it does to the punks who did this. I hope and pray the FEDS get true justice and show this county that crime doesn't pay.
If one of my kids did this yes I would be devistated but I would not want them to get off scott free. You do the crime you must do the time no matter who you are no matter who you know. Human life is everyone no matter what color there skin is or what race they are. Noone has the right to take that from anyone. If the FEDS don't get them then I know of someone that will in the end on Judgement Day!!! "
hmmmm wrote on Jun 19, 2009 10:42 AM:
" Okay, so Maldef and Rendell want the Justice Dept involved, who are, by all accounts going to be, but I found this article from another town in PA:
The Justice Department won't investigate a YouTube video in which an Erie police officer was seek mocking a black murder victim and his family in a drunken barroom rant.
The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People asked for an investigation. But a Justice spokesman says the department only investigates a "pattern" or "practice" of civil rights violations, and the April 6 video was an isolated incident.
They will go after these kids for this when there was no pattern involved? "
The Justice Department won't investigate a YouTube video in which an Erie police officer was seek mocking a black murder victim and his family in a drunken barroom rant.
The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People asked for an investigation. But a Justice spokesman says the department only investigates a "pattern" or "practice" of civil rights violations, and the April 6 video was an isolated incident.
They will go after these kids for this when there was no pattern involved? "
Color Blind wrote on Jun 19, 2009 12:41 PM:
" TO HMMMM : There sure is a pattern of civil injustice here ! ! They don't have to look far. I'm sure when the FBI were informed about the two separate deaths (murders?) that took place in the Shenandoah jail; their interest here peaked alot ! ! "THOU SHALL NOT KILL" "
Alex wrote on Jun 19, 2009 2:23 PM:
" this is the answer to the question from user cathy: When did It become ILLEGAL to be HUMAN? "
Charlesincharge wrote on Jun 19, 2009 3:59 PM:
" I'm wondering why the borough manager was not called as a witness, he was there also. The police can't do anything without him, so keep that in mind. "
curious wrote on Jun 19, 2009 4:08 PM:
" To color blind, what are you talking about, murders in a shenandoah jail??? "
disheartened wrote on Jun 19, 2009 4:23 PM:
" I have a few comments about this entire story.
1. Something is very wrong with our government. They will not do anything to stop the illegal immigration in the entire country. It doesn't matter if the illegal is from Mexico or Canada. I know this for a fact because I actually contacted immigration about someone that I positively knew was here illegally from Canada. I gave them a name and an address and they contacted me back and told me they couldn't possibly follow up on every case reported to them lol. Isn't that their job? So lets start putting the initial blame on the correct agency
2. It's easy to condemn a situation when you aren't living right in the midst of it. Gov. Rendell can sit in his nice home in his nice neighborhood and not worry about how a small, beautiful, tough but loving community has begun to look like the slums in the big city. My heart breaks as i drive through Shenandoah and see how much it has fallen into decay.
3. There was no civil injustice here. I really was surprised at the verdict until I read the description of the charges. The jury deliberated on what they were given and according the the definition of the charges, they did a great job.
4. The only injustice I saw was that this man was getting away with fathering all these kids with underage women and living here illegally. NO matter how many jobs he worked, or any other reason, nothing changes the fact that he was a child molester and breaking the law by being here illegally.
5. As for the boys involved, no-one but them, knows what was really in their hearts or minds the night this happened., Whether they serve 6 months or 6 years, their lives are ruined. I put myself in their parents position and I know how devastated I would be if this was my son or daughter involved in this mess. They will have no peace for the rest of their lives.
6. As for the local police dept., they really do have some questions to answer. Once the officer found out who was involved in this, he should have took statements and secured the scene and called in other police depts so there would have been no look of a cover up "
1. Something is very wrong with our government. They will not do anything to stop the illegal immigration in the entire country. It doesn't matter if the illegal is from Mexico or Canada. I know this for a fact because I actually contacted immigration about someone that I positively knew was here illegally from Canada. I gave them a name and an address and they contacted me back and told me they couldn't possibly follow up on every case reported to them lol. Isn't that their job? So lets start putting the initial blame on the correct agency
2. It's easy to condemn a situation when you aren't living right in the midst of it. Gov. Rendell can sit in his nice home in his nice neighborhood and not worry about how a small, beautiful, tough but loving community has begun to look like the slums in the big city. My heart breaks as i drive through Shenandoah and see how much it has fallen into decay.
3. There was no civil injustice here. I really was surprised at the verdict until I read the description of the charges. The jury deliberated on what they were given and according the the definition of the charges, they did a great job.
4. The only injustice I saw was that this man was getting away with fathering all these kids with underage women and living here illegally. NO matter how many jobs he worked, or any other reason, nothing changes the fact that he was a child molester and breaking the law by being here illegally.
5. As for the boys involved, no-one but them, knows what was really in their hearts or minds the night this happened., Whether they serve 6 months or 6 years, their lives are ruined. I put myself in their parents position and I know how devastated I would be if this was my son or daughter involved in this mess. They will have no peace for the rest of their lives.
6. As for the local police dept., they really do have some questions to answer. Once the officer found out who was involved in this, he should have took statements and secured the scene and called in other police depts so there would have been no look of a cover up "
Goober wrote on Jun 19, 2009 4:38 PM:
" Instead of complaining, get even! Kill all those who were involved. It makes sense to me. We can feed their bodies to the local SPCA animals. "
They Did Us A Favor... wrote on Jun 19, 2009 5:18 PM:
" http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,527640,00.html
Thank you and you're welcome. "
Thank you and you're welcome. "
OH WELL wrote on Jun 19, 2009 7:48 PM:
" TRUE BLUE ALL THE WAY BABY !!!!
ALSO, VERY PROUD !!!!
I WOULD NEVER LOWER MYSELF TO THEIR SLIMY STANDARDS ON WHICH IS THE EXACT THING YOU DO !!!!! I ASSUME I WAS RIGHT,AGAIN, THAT YOU MUST BE A JENNY CRAIG HATER. GET A LIFE AND PLEASE, GET ON A DIET !!!! HAHAHAHA "
ALSO, VERY PROUD !!!!
I WOULD NEVER LOWER MYSELF TO THEIR SLIMY STANDARDS ON WHICH IS THE EXACT THING YOU DO !!!!! I ASSUME I WAS RIGHT,AGAIN, THAT YOU MUST BE A JENNY CRAIG HATER. GET A LIFE AND PLEASE, GET ON A DIET !!!! HAHAHAHA "
To They Did Us A Favor wrote on Jun 19, 2009 8:41 PM:
" Thank you for that article!
Where's MALDEF for this one? :) "
Where's MALDEF for this one? :) "
VET wrote on Jun 19, 2009 10:47 PM:
" THE ABOVE COMMENTS PROCTECTING THESE MENTAL MIDGETS WHICH INCLUDE THERE FAMILY AND FRIENDS HAS MADE ME CONCLUDE, BASED ON THE ABOVE COMMENTS THAT SCHUYKILL COUNTIANS ARE DISFUNCTIONAL ILITERATES TO INCLUDES THE DA AND HIS STAFF. I WOULD SAY SHAME ON YOU, BUT THIS PHRASE WOULD BE UNDERSTOOD BY INDIVIDUALS WITH COMMON SENSE. THE REST OF THE WORLDS GRADE IN COMMON SENSE 100%, SCHUYLKILL COUNTIANS 0% . THOSE WHO ARE SCREENING THESE COMMENTS, IN WHICH I SUBMITTED SEVERAL THAT HAVE NOT BEEN POSTED SHOWS ME THAT YOU WILL ONLY POST COMMENTS OF THOSE WHO ARE EITHER MENTAL MIDGETS OR DISFUNCTIONAL ILLITERATES. MY PERSEPTION OF THIS ACT DRAWS ME TO THE CONCLUSION THAT YOU ARE BIAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! THE VET "
mama bear wrote on Jun 19, 2009 11:49 PM:
" I am ashamed as a white American. These murderers getting away with killing a man regardless of his status.
IT IS OBVIOUS LIKE MANY PLACES IN MY BELOVED AMERICA THE LAW MEANS NOTHING,IT IS ALL ABOUT WHAT CRIMINAL YOU KNOW IN AUTHORITY.
ANY DECENT AMERICAN SHOULD MOVE OUT OF THAT COUNTY,AS IT IS A HAVEN FOR MURDERS.
GOD SAVE AMERICA! "
IT IS OBVIOUS LIKE MANY PLACES IN MY BELOVED AMERICA THE LAW MEANS NOTHING,IT IS ALL ABOUT WHAT CRIMINAL YOU KNOW IN AUTHORITY.
ANY DECENT AMERICAN SHOULD MOVE OUT OF THAT COUNTY,AS IT IS A HAVEN FOR MURDERS.
GOD SAVE AMERICA! "
neither side wrote on Jun 20, 2009 7:09 AM:
" I remember being young. We all at one time got into a fight. For all differant reasons. Never intending to kill anyone. We got lucky. As a parent now I could not imagine going through something like this. No matter what we try to teach our kids, we can't control the outcome of their behavior or the actions. I applaud Judge Baldwin. He did his job by the book. Their are not many in the legal system that do that. Yes a man is dead but I don't feel intentionally. Let's not forget that night will haunt these both these familys forever. "
Pat Young wrote on Jun 20, 2009 8:53 AM:
" Several points:
1. For those wishing that "outsiders", i.e. other Americans who don't share your prejudices, stay out of this, wasn't this distain for "outsiders" part of the teens motive for confronting Ramirez? The interests of justice, particularly when a man has been killed, don't end at the borders of a town.
2. I notice that those saying the sentancing "closes the matter" and that it is "time to move on" don't criticize the convicted men's attorney for holding open the possibility of an appeal. Is it only the Latinos who need to move on?
3. Constitutional interests are served by a full and fair investigation into whether the civil rights of Luis Ramirez were violated. Supporters of law and order will no doubt also support such a process. "
1. For those wishing that "outsiders", i.e. other Americans who don't share your prejudices, stay out of this, wasn't this distain for "outsiders" part of the teens motive for confronting Ramirez? The interests of justice, particularly when a man has been killed, don't end at the borders of a town.
2. I notice that those saying the sentancing "closes the matter" and that it is "time to move on" don't criticize the convicted men's attorney for holding open the possibility of an appeal. Is it only the Latinos who need to move on?
3. Constitutional interests are served by a full and fair investigation into whether the civil rights of Luis Ramirez were violated. Supporters of law and order will no doubt also support such a process. "
Girardville Lass wrote on Jun 20, 2009 3:55 PM:
" VET...
I assure you, there are many residents of Schuylkill county horrified by the crime and everything that has followed. "
I assure you, there are many residents of Schuylkill county horrified by the crime and everything that has followed. "
Color Blind wrote on Jun 21, 2009 12:14 AM:
" TO PAT YOUNG : The ones saying they do not want outsiders here, are ONLY THE ONES INVOLVED !!!!! Please know that their are good people in this county and the MAJORITY is against this verdict, the sentence, and the cocky behavior of the parents and kids since they killed this man. We are poisened by a corrupt police force, disfunctional parents, and an "IT"S WHO YOU KNOW JUSTICE SYSTEM" that's been successful at getting away with it, and passing it down for decades. Believe me my friend, YOU ARE WELCOME HERE BY MOST EVERYONE !!!!!!!!!!!!!! The problem, as we became aware of in other blog pages for this case; is that high school friends of the boys, are commenting here using several names ! ! So when you see a few posts, one after the other, ganging up on someone elses comment ( ESPECIALLY IF IT IS TRUE) you would be correct to assume its the girl, running down the court house steps cheering on CNN. They are young and still trying to defend themselves, even though they say let it go. When they hear HOW KIND AND LOVING PEOPLE FEEL, they just can't stay away, and try to tear apart that kindness and intelligence. PLEASE DO NOT FEEL UNWELCOME BY THE LIKES OF THEM. We have a real mess here in this county, and can use any outside input there is. We are praying the FBI gets to the bottom of this corruption. They just put some judges away right north of us. It was mentioned on the Bill Maher Show on HBO. Corruption comes in many forms; but this case covers corruption at all levels. TO NEITHER SIDE : I think you are wrong about this haunting these kids and their families ! ! Just by the constant defending of them here, you should know that. These kids cheered and had a horn honking parade through the town after they were tried. They have been caught on film laughing after the sentencing, they had parties for them throughout this whole ordeal. And the DENIAL just goes too deep. they actually have brainwashed themselves into believing they didn't do anything wrong. They are people without a conscience ! ! ! ! If they had one they would have never celebrated being found "noy guilty" of MURDER ! ! They never showed any remorse, but instead; bragged about getting away with it !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! They will not suffer. If the FBI lets them get away with this light sentence; they will come out of jail angry and more disrespectful ! ! They already are voicing that they shouldn't even have to do six months !!!!!! SUFFER, I DON'TTHINK SO ! ! The only hope for these kids to know how wrong they were and humble them, would be a much longer time away in state prison ! ! County jail is a joke !!!!!!!! One of my friends was in for several DUI'S (hopeless sot)and they told me that it was way too easy ! ! They have private cells all closed in except for a window in the door for the guards to look in. They were fed so good he said, that's why we have so many repeat offenders. They make it their second home. Their cell has a very clean stainless steal, private sink and toilet. And the best part was that they could and did, blast MTV or VHI all day on the cell block TV, and any time they want, they had every PAY CHANNEL !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! HBO, CINEMAX, SHOWTIME, you name it. Most of us can't afford these services at home but they have them for the criminals in county jail !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! All I know is this punishment, does not fit the crime !!!!!!!!!!!!!!! PLEASE HELP US LIVE HERE IN PEACE AND SAFTEY FROM THESE FUTURE CRIMINALS FBI !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! TO EVERYONE ELSE : "THOU SHALL NOT KILL" I CAN"T SAY IT ENOUGH ! ! ! ! ! ! "
JustTex wrote on Jun 21, 2009 4:58 AM:
" Judge Baldwin, like DA Goodman, have chosen to ignore the central elements of this case. Being, from the beginning, Luis Ramirez was the aggressor.
Ramirez became enraged when one of the boys asked a simple question, not to Luis Ramirez, but to their underage schoolmate sitting with him: “Isn’t it a little late for you to be out?“
That question enraged Ramirez, & he challenged the boys with violence. Then, he called a gang of friends to join him. Then, Ramirez chased the boys as they tried to leave the area. That's when Ramirez died, while he was attacking the boys again.
Baldwin stated: “This wasn’t any fight. This was a group of young athletes ganging up on one person.” Within the context of the circumstances, that’s just not so. Within context, the boys were defending themselves. And for whatever reasons, perhaps “political correctness”, Baldwin & Goodman, chose to ignore the central facts.
Ask yourselves, if you, or your child were being attacked by any belligerent grown man, should you or your child be guilty of crimes for trying to defend against that aggressive behavior? That answer should always be no. “Political correctness” shouldn’t have been at issue here at all.
Now, the only way to correct this injustice, will likely to be at the ballot boxes. "
Ramirez became enraged when one of the boys asked a simple question, not to Luis Ramirez, but to their underage schoolmate sitting with him: “Isn’t it a little late for you to be out?“
That question enraged Ramirez, & he challenged the boys with violence. Then, he called a gang of friends to join him. Then, Ramirez chased the boys as they tried to leave the area. That's when Ramirez died, while he was attacking the boys again.
Baldwin stated: “This wasn’t any fight. This was a group of young athletes ganging up on one person.” Within the context of the circumstances, that’s just not so. Within context, the boys were defending themselves. And for whatever reasons, perhaps “political correctness”, Baldwin & Goodman, chose to ignore the central facts.
Ask yourselves, if you, or your child were being attacked by any belligerent grown man, should you or your child be guilty of crimes for trying to defend against that aggressive behavior? That answer should always be no. “Political correctness” shouldn’t have been at issue here at all.
Now, the only way to correct this injustice, will likely to be at the ballot boxes. "
VET wrote on Jun 21, 2009 10:15 AM:
" GIRARDVILLE LASS, MY OPINIONN IS BASED ON THE COMMENTS WHICH HAVE BEEN POSTED FTOM THE BEGINNING OF THIS DAVASTATING TRADGEDY AND ALSO HAVING THE ADVANTANTAGE OF WORKING IN SCHUYLKILL COUNTY. I AGREE, THERE ARE GOOD PEOPLE IN SCHUYLKILL COUNTY BUT THE GOOD 20% BAD 80% AND WHEN I SAY BAD, IT MEANS MISUNDERSTOOD. I WORK IN AN ENVIRONMENT WHICH 99% OF MY CO-WORKERS FEEL THAT MR RAMIREZ GOT WHAT HE DESERVED. ON MANY ACCASIONS, I SAY TO MYSELF IF THAT WERE MY CHILD WHO WAS BRUTALY BEATEN AND THE INDIVIDUALS INVOLVED SHOWED NO REMORSE. I CONTINUE TO COME TO THE CONCLUSION, THAT THIS BEHAVIOR IS UNACCEPTABLE. MY FEELINGS ARE THAT ONLY THE MAN UPSTAIRS CAN TAKE A LIFE AND THESE YOUNG MEN ARE FROM THE MAN UPSTAIRS. VET!!!!! "
pitiful wrote on Jun 17, 2009 3:49 PM: