225 years ago, Patrick Henry remarked in a speech: “Guard with jealous attention the public liberty. Suspect every one who approaches that jewel. Unfortunately, nothing will preserve it but downright force. Whenever you give up that force, you are inevitably ruined.”

We are hurdling toward our inevitable ruin.  The New York Times reports today that the Obama Administration is delaying both reading Dzhokhar A. Tsarnaev his Miranda warnings and granting him an attorney, despite being questioned by the FBI.  I suspect most Americans could care less or, more likely, are happy about the situation.  Today at the gym and beyond I was treated to comments like, “They shoulda killed that thar tarrisss when they found heeem!” 

I understand passions run high in this case but, folks, we still live in a Constitutional Republic (if in name only).  I have sworn an oath to God Almighty to support and defend the Constitution and the rights of the People, even those (especially those) accused of committing crimes.

In 1966 the Supreme Court ruled that criminal suspects must be read a short summary of their rights – you know these from TV cop shows – before being questioned.  The right to an attorney is set forth in the Sixth Amendment.  “Public safety” exceptions to the speed at which these rights are exercised have unwisely dripped out of the courts over the years.  In theory, the government can question Tsarnaev immediately concerning imminent threats.  However, once they began asking broader questions, the law should apply.  Concerning terrorism cases, the Justice [SIC] Department has advised the FBI to go as broad as possible from the start.  The courts have, by and large, stood by silently.  If his prosecution goes forward as a criminal case, without application of the law, any conviction or plea could be reversed.

Of course, he may be deemed an enemy combatant and hauled off to Gitmo or some CIA torture facility abroad.  Remember, our Dear Leader has declare himself capable of simply killing Americans at will, with or without evidence.  Perhaps that will be Tsarnaev’s fate.

Whatever happens, it is clear the jewel of our Liberty has been approached.  I suspect the government and its motives here.  The only force I can exert is here, via my writings.  This may enrage the “America.  F**k yeah!” rednecks.  I do not care.  Will you join me or give in to ruin?