United States District Court Judge Gary Lancaster has ruled that the sex offender residency restriction ordinance passed by Allegheny County is illegal. The restriction would have barred sex offenders registered under Megan’s Law from “residing within 2,500 feet of any school, child care facility, recreation center, public park, or community center.” Judge Lancaster ruled that the ordinance conflicted with state law and was...

Edward Pinkney, a professed Baptist minister, was convicted of violating his probation after stating that his sentencing judge “could be punished by God with curses, fever and ‘extreme burning’ unless he changed his ways.” Pinkey claims that he was simply paraphrasing scripture. An uninvolved judge ruled that Pinkney’s statements were threats and sentenced Pinkney to three to ten years in prison for violating his...

The ACLU of Northern California questions the legality of “DUI flashlights.” Commonly known as passive alcohol sensors, these devices are similar to flashlights and indicate whether a specific amount of alcohol is detected in the area. While law enforcement officials consider the devices to be useful tools, the ACLU contends that it is an unconstitutional invasion of rights. While California law requires officers to get permission...

The ACLU is suing Allegheny County over a local ordinance that prevents registered sex offenders from residing within 2,500 feet of any school, child care facility, recreation center, public park, or community center. For more information on the ACLU suit, go to: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08280/917912-100.stm The history of the ordinance: On June 19, 2007, Vince Gasteb proposed an ordinance that would serve to enhance the sex offender...