It’s not whether there is a best or worst of times when it comes to indictments, especially recent espionage cases. But now we have two indictments for the same crimes against the state in a matter of a few months. Don’t make this about who they are, make it about what they’ve done and whom they’ve harmed.
In one we have a socially immature government employee who had access to, and allegedly took, confidential national documents. He took them because he wanted to bolster his ego and status within his circle of supporters. He needs to feel important. He shows off his trophies and brags about how important they are and by implication how important he is.
In the second case, ironically, we have almost an identical situation. A former government employee with larger delusional ego issues. He too took secret material for his personal use, to show off his trophies and brag. He too needs to feel important.
In the first, the perpetrator was apprehended by armed FBI agents and SWAT. He was immediately incarcerated, without bail, even before being indicted. The conservative right wing was appalled at how long it took the DOJ to apprehend the accused and of course there shouldn’t be any bail. He was clearly a threat to the country by showing off his trophies.
By contrast, in a clear demonstration of DOJ bias, the search warrant for the second was actioned while the suspect was out of town to avoid any embarrassing situation. It took well on six to eight months for the second to be indicted all the while being free and available to the press. In even another example of DOJ bias, this suspect wasn’t incarcerated even after indictment. The first indicted on six charges, the second on only thirty-seven. One is free, the other is not, guess which.
The conservative right wing screaming about a two-tier system, and they are correct. If the second had been named Smith, what are the odds of such preferential treatment. Both cases will be heard by a jury, that’s how our system of justice works. It will be interesting to see if there is any subtle jury tampering or judicial prejudice by and for the second. He is the only one who is free, speaking volumes, with the means to accomplish acquittal by influence. And yes, if you take national secrets, you should be prosecuted; no matter who you are. These are demure men striving for attention. Keep it about what they’ve done, not who they are or want to be. Through it all, sadly, the country loses. #NeverFearTheDream
simplebender 