PNN #124 Show Notes http://bit.ly/118yp0E
Info Activist Jeremy Hammond Signs 10yr Plea Deal
http://revolution-news.com/jeremy-hammond-accepts-a-conditional-10-year-plea-deal/
Herdshares OK
http://www.farmtoconsumer.org/news_wp/?p=9309
Liberty Reserve Founder Arrested
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2013/may/28/liberty-reserve-arthur-budovsky-arrested-spain
WiFi Bad for Plant Growth
http://www.naturalblaze.com/2013/05/young-scientists-research-results.html
PNN #123 Show Notes http://bit.ly/11n8M8h
High School Rebel Teaches 5th Amendment
http://reason.com/blog/2013/05/27/high-school-teacher-faces-discipline-for
Doc Refuses Insurance, Posts Prices Online
Sovereign Living TV Launches
PNN #122 Show Notes http://bit.ly/10vGRaL
Raw Milk Farmer
Million March Monsanto
http://rt.com/news/monsanto-gmo-protests-world-721/
Code Pink
http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2013/05/26/cnn-host-to-code-pink-activist-you-seem-a-little-crazy/
The much-anticipated verdict is in! JURY FINDS VERNON HERSHBERGER NOT GUILTY of 3 of 4 charges: NOT GUILTY of operating retail food establishment without license. NOT GUILTY of operating dairy farm as milk producer without license. NOT GUILTY of operating a dairy plant without license. GUILTY of violating holding order.
While everyone is glad that Vernon was found not guilty on the first three charges, the last one was the most serious (of potential penalties). At sentencing, he faces up to one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $10,000 according to the Wisconsin DOJ website.
Here are the live-tweets posted by DerrickJ’s twitter account prior to verdict.
Courtroom at full capacity. Jury instructions read by Judge assume morality of law & make no mention of #Nullification #State #Bias #Justice — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
#State begins closing arguments: “NOT about whether or not #VernonHershberger is a good person. You saw products with labels. Ice Cream…” — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
#State argues that #VernonHershberger should go to jail bc he sold ice cream, berries, & cheese. OooOooOOooOoh!! What a criminal!! #RawMIlk — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
#State presents document promoting Open House. Reads “Bring your friends & family!” — Is this supposed to make Grazin Acres look criminal? — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
#State reads mailer/advertisement. Jury appears moderately attentive. Prosecution arguing Vernon has been successful & should be punished. — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
#State arguing (slowly) Vernon “processed” dairy products by cooling them & violated holding order by “moving” them (even simply up & down). — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
#State finishes closing argument. Court allows for standing & stretching in place. Defense begins by thanking jury & gives credit 4 staying. — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
Defense begins by talking about abuse of government authority which led to creation of jury system: “Conscience of the community.” #Winning — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
Defense calls DTCAP schizophrenic & shameful: both helps & hurts farmers – Why would they go after a hero like Vernon who feeds neighbors? — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
Defense references George Orwell’s 1984 “Newspeak – There’s no logic.” Spent 3 years, & all they’ve got is he filed the wrong paperwork. — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
Defense references George Orwell’s 1984 “Newspeak – There’s no logic.” Spent 3 years, & all they’ve got is he filed the wrong paperwork. — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
Defense holds 1000 pages of Prosecution up for jury. #State did not interview a single member! “Sad use of power & pathetic waste” #Winning — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
Jury attentive. Defense calls #State inspectors “Milk Police” – “As close to prohibition as I have seen. No basis in logic.” #RawMilk #Trial — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
Defense accuses #State of being presumptive & unwilling to dialogue. Emphasizes #Amish #Values – Sharing & Community. #RawMilk #Winning — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
#VernonHershberger farms w/ horses, loves land, community, & healthy food. Defense: “To convict based on assumptions would be a shame.” — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
Defense: “These are not consumers, but a private group associated w/ his farm. #State could come into our kitchens next.” #VernonHershberger — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
Defense: Send a message to DTCAP (#State investigators) w/ your verdict. Shouldn’t criminalize pvt conduct that doesnt violate public safety — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
D: Would you go into a man’s refrigerator & put a hold on his food, leaving him 2 days supply, & not expect him to go in and take some food? — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
1 juror smiles, nods. 2 jurors cover mouths. Whole jury engrossed. “I suggest this hold order was an effort to put the squeeze on somebody.” — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
“Pantry” vs “store” another ridic attempt by #State to use “Newspeak” to criminalize an #Amish #farmer. “Blatant abuse of govt power.” — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
#State gets last word, but Defense asks jury to vote their conscience & send #VernonHershberger home to his family a free man. #RawMilk — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
#State rebuttal begins. Says “public” status of pantry is “obvious” & that Defense is asking Jury to ignore the law. #JuryNullification — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
#State: “Just get the license. It’s $265. That’s it. That’s what the law requires.” #Govt #Thuggery #Force #Compliance thru #Violence — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
#State accuses Defense of mischaracterization of crimes: “The words that matter here are the instructions on the law. Law comes from judge.” — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
#State: “Just get a license. That’s what he should have done. He decided to move, sell, & distribute the product.” #State concludes #RawMilk — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
Alternates 4 Jury chosen. Trial nearly over. Judge reads instruction NOT to be swayed by conscience. Jury excused. Audience waits 4 verdict. — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
#VernonHershberger & his family in prayer meeting while Jury deliberates. Courthouse is abuzz w/ #Amish children & nervous farmers #RawMilk — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
Lawyers arguing w/ each other about re-exhibits that will go to the jury. Crowd eagerly awaits verdict. #VernonHershberger #RawMilk #Trial — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
Courtroom is nearly full. 3 seats left. 10+ children deserve awards 4 being in court since 9am & being so well behaved! #RawMIlk #Trial — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
Court in recess. Jury deliberating over evidence. Courtroom full of anxious supporters. This community loves & stands by its #RawMilk farmer — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
Judge re-enters court. Court not yet in session. Judge asks how far away the lawyers are. Everyone wants to know: “Is the Jury ready???” — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
Judge suggests to attorneys asking Jury whether they’d like to return Tuesday. Defense: Don’t ask them. #State defers to Judge. We will wait — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
Midnight and no verdict yet. Vernon’s Dad Daniel brought Raw Milk for court audience. Bailiffs provide cups! Yum! twitter.com/derrickjfreema… — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
Jury has requested 3 docs: Pre-2010 Member Agreement, Post-2010 Member Agreement, & Boarding Agreement. Judge just entered room. VERDICT NOW — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
WATCH VERNON’S VERDICT LIVE – Judge informs audience not to react. justin.tv/farmfoodfreedom #VernonHershberger #RawMilk #Trial #Verdict — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
Silence befalls Sauk County Courthouse. Tension palpable. World watching via livestream. Judge: “Outbursts will not be tolerated.” #RawMilk — Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 25, 2013
At the time this post is being published, the jury has not returned a verdict on any of the four counts Vernon faces. Agents of the State have charged Amish Raw Milk Dairy Farmer Vernon Hershberger with the following “criminal” charges:
1) distributing milk from his “Grazin’ Acres” dairy farm without a milk producer’s license,
2) operating a retail food establishment without a state license,
3) operating a dairy plant without a state license, and
4) violating a “hold order” placed on his dairy products after the state raided his farm.
Today Irma and Vernon Hershberger took the stand, as well as other member/owners. The tension inside the courtroom was palpable. The audience benches were filled to capacity. Below are my live-tweets from inside the courtroom:
#VernonHershberger #Trial Day 4 begins. Court filled 60%. Judge requires redacted G.A. Membership Agreement photocopied to obscure language.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Word “Liberty” forbidden from being spoken. Defense calls Jenny DiLenay. Member/owner of Grazin Acres since 2005. #VernonHershberger #Trial
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
DiLenay says she 1st met Vernon in his kitchen. Pantry/store didn’t change operation, just location. Prices suggested. Chores = compensation
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
DiLenay says Grazin Acres owners hang out outside of farm & do things unrelated to farm work. “It’s a community.” #RawMilk #Farmer #Trial
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Cross-examination begins. Prosecution alleges DiLenay has been listening to trial across on livestream at justin.tv/farmfoodfreedom #RawMilk
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Prosecutor badgers DiLenay. Argues that Grazin Acres is not a farm but a business. Asks witness to spell the word “farm.” Jury not impressed
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Furrowed brows & piercing glares. Woman on jury shaking head at prosecutor. DiLenay’s face visibly shaken by verbal abuse by the #State
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Brief recess after Delonay’s testimony. 1 juror wears “Wisconsin” shirt w/ cow on it. Defense calls Joseph Klein, physician. #RawMilk #trial
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Furrowed brows & piercing glares. Woman on jury shaking head at prosecutor. DiLenay’s face visibly shaken by verbal abuse by the #State
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Brief recess after Delonay’s testimony. 1 juror wears “Wisconsin” shirt w/ cow on it. Defense calls Joseph Klein, physician. #RawMilk #trial
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Correction to earlier tweet: Today is Day 5 of #VernonHershberger #RawMilk #Trial – Watch Live at justin.tv/farmfoodfreedom
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Defense calls Mary Smith, former professor, computer programmer, Grazin Acres member/owner since 2004 on recommendation of nutritionist.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Mary Smith explains process of returning & cleaning jars. Despite restrictions on words, describes: “uncontaminated, down-to-earth, healthy”
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Cross-examination of Mary Smith begins. Questions regard labeling, prices, chores, compensation, terms & conditions of member’s agreement.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
After 10 min recess, Defense calls Karen Kissero (sp?): Grazin Acres member/owner. Channel 3 present & filming #VernonHershberger #Trial
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Witness describes various chores on farm. Her personal understanding of member agreement she signed cannot be spoken. Stricken from record.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Flustered Prosecutor accuses Defense of mis-statement. Judge tells State to relax. State cross-examines Kissero: questions chore requirement
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
State: You weren’t expecting to get the products from the farm for free?Kissero: Do you expect anything for free?St8: I can’t answer that.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
State: Nobody forced you to work on the farm? Kissero: I’m a part owner. It’s my job.S: I move to strike from record. Kissero rolls eyes.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Defense calls Bill Patten, carpenter, Grazin Acres member/owner. Attracted to #VernonHershberger farm bc of “nature & condition of milk”
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Defense asks Patten point blank: Is it a “store” or “pantry”? Prefers term “pantry” bc he doesn’t consider it a business relationship.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Defense: Ever worked for retail store in exchange for food?Patten: I worked a Dairy Queen–Drank a lot of root beer that summer. (Laughter)
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Trial resumes after 1 hr lunch break. Court at full capacity. Watch Live justin.tv/farmfoodfreedom #VernonHershberger #RawMilk #Trial #Liberty
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
B4 Jury returns, Judge redacts several paragraphs from the Members Agreement explaining relationship among owners: “Confusing & misleading”
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Defense calls Aajnis Vonderplanetz, nutrition author & lecturer. Formed “Right to Choose Healthy Food” #VernonHershberger #RawMilk #Trial
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Witness fearlessly speaks the truth despite constant objections by #State. Disobeys rules of court by talking like a human being. #RawMilk
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
#State cross-examines witness. Points out error in document: PA, not WI. Witness boldly clarifies agreement w/o question. St8 cannot silence
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Defense calls Irma, mom of 10 & spouse of #VernonHershberger . Says she relies on help of members to run the farm. Calls food room “pantry.”
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Irma: “What happened to the money? We usually…spent it.” (Laughter)Watch live justin.tv/farmfoodfreedom #VernonHershberger #RawMilk #Trial
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Irma says ppl need to sign a contract to take food from pantry. Recalls armed police raiding home. Tried to protect food 4 family. #RawMilk
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Defense: “Mrs Hershberger, who did the food belong to?”State: “Objection! Calls for legal conclusion.” (Sustained!) #Govt #Thugs #Theft
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Defense asks Irma what explanation was given for #State pouring food dye into her #RawMilk . Judge interjects, clears jury & forbids truth.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Defense: “Mrs Hershberger, who did the food belong to?”State: “Objection! Calls for legal conclusion.” (Sustained!) #Govt #Thugs #Theft
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Defense asks Irma what explanation was given for #State pouring food dye into her #RawMilk . Judge interjects, clears jury & forbids truth.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Trial resumes. Irma confirms that an explanation was given, but is forbidden by judge to say what that explanation was. Ends. No cross-exam.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Defense calls #VernonHershberger . Is nervous: “It’s been a long 3 years.” Aims to “farm as God intended.” Explains partnerships. #RawMilk
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Video/Photos shown. Areal view of farm. Vernon plowing w/ horses. Cows grazing on grassy hills. Chickens feeding. Family portrait. #RawMilk
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Video shown of family consuming unpasteurized milk, cheese, yogurt, kefir, butter, etc from farm. Says he & members own products in pantry.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
More videos shown of #VernonHershberger making dairy products. Notably sanitary. Plays like a commercial. Making me hungry for some #RawMilk
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Vernon: Purpose of label is for members to know how much $ is needed to keep farm sustainable. Explains to jury he learned this as a boy.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Vernon says that some members paid more than suggested price. Others paid nothing. Inspiration is love/caring. ex: single mom w/ 5 children
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Vernon: Working on farm optional. Of 200 families, only 25 participated. Says he would not be able to sustain farm or prices w/o their help.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Vernon explains why he formed an LLC for Grazin Acres. Looks directly at jury. Judge strikes answer from record as violation of “order.”
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
#State removes jury again. #State argues that Vernon’s private contract does not transfer ownership of LLC from Vernon to members. #RawMilk
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Defense: Weary of sending out the jury. Probably not going to finish today. Frustrated by constant delays by #State . #VernonHershberger
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Channel 3 camera operator struggles to keep up with fervent arguments by Defense & Prosecution. #State accuses Defense of misleading jury.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Defense: It’s a little late to take up an argument about corporate law. if that’s the case, then send the jury home, & call a mistrial.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Defense: “To instruct the jury that the Members Agreement is hogwash is to prevent Mr Hershberger from presenting a defense.” #RawMilk
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Lawyers being lawyers. Furious argumentation, nothing resolved. #Truth obfuscated by #State . Watch the madness ensue justin.tv/farmfoodfreedom
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Defense: “Let Mr Hershberger present his case. I know the state doesn’t like it. We will try this case again, Judge.” #RawMilk #Food #Trial
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Jury returns. Down to final hours. #State objects within first minute of argumentation. Defense questions relationship among members & farm.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
#VernonHershberger explains Members Agreement = little more than handshake agreement for acquiring food from farm. #State objects on reflex.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Vernon: From my understanding, the hold order meant the milk couldn’t be distributed. Judge calls ANOTHER recess. Courtroom tense. #RawMilk
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Defense: #State arguing ownership of milk is a legal conclusion. If so, we can’t have trial on anything bc everything is a legal conclusion!
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Jury returns. Trial resumes. #VernonHersheberger felt he had no choice when #State ruined 2300 lbs of #RawMilk #Govt #Thugs #Violence #Force
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
#VernonHershberger hanging in like a trooper, visibly hurt. Quavery voice recalls conversation during raid. #RawMilk #Govt #Raid #Farm
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Bailiff w/ gun & taser steals cell phone from old man in audience. Suspected of taking picture of trial. #GodForbid #PublicTrial #RawMilk
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Vernon was never reimbursed for the computer #State stole during #raid . Was given no copies of documents they stole nor originals returned.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Defense: A lot of work for little pay…Vernon: It’s not that we want to get rich or anything. It’s just how we want to raise our family.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Cross-examination of #VernonHershberger by #State . Jury & Audience visibly confused by line of questioning re: receipts #RawMilk #Trial
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
#State asks about products Vernon offers that don’t come from farm. Accusing poor farmer of being ruthless businessman. #Govt #Thug #Fail
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
#State ends cross-exam. Vernon says the products he sells are extras from personalfamily use or come from farm members. #RawMilk #Trial
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
#State begins re-cross exam. Focuses on details of receipts: Is $10 “misc dairy” for cream or membership fee? #WhoCares? #GraspingAtStraws
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
#VernonHershberger steps down. Defense rests. Jury leaves. Judge calls 10 min recess & asks Attys if they want deliberation today. They do.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Judge returns. Jury eating. Instruction begins 6pm. Each side has 1 hr total for closing statements (opening, closing, rebuttal) #RawMilk
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Judge declares ARMED RAID & seizure of Vernon’s farm products is NOT use of force. #Govt #Thugs #Violence #Voluntaryism #RawMilk
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
6:50pm CST Judge & Jury return. Instructions given on juror’s duty. “Must base your verdict on the law I give you.” #JuryNullification
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Judge reads charges & explains elements of crime which must be proven beyond reasonable doubt by #State #VernonHershberger #RawMIlk #Trial
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Today was the best trial day so far! The Defense wiped the floor with the Prosecution.
I continued to tweet live updates from inside the courtroom. Here are my live-tweets from today:
Trial of Vernon Hershberger Day 4 Begins — Sheriff on stand, Prosecution begins questioning — Watch Live justin.tv/FarmFoodFreedom #RawMilk
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
DOJ Linda Gray takes stand. Courtroom at 90% capacity. State asks witnesses about what property they stole. #VernonHershberger #Govt #Theft
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
State continues to bore all in attendance over minutia regarding the computer they stole from Vernon. One hour into trial, no arguments yet.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Talk about overkill. Vernon is a farmer. Why is a team of computer forensics analysts necessary? State asks Jury to leave. Now in recess.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
While Jury away, Judge decides to hide more from them — Must not see that Vernon’s Price List reads “For Members Only.” Members = co-owners
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Defense argues that if State wants to introduce evidence, they must show the whole story, not just pieces. “Absurd. It’s not fair.” #RawMilk
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Defense: “Judge, if I call Vernon to the stand, you’re going to prevent him from providing a complete description?”Judge: “We’ll see.”
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Defense: “The way this is going, this trial isn’t going to be over this week.”Judge: “It is what it is.” #VernonHershberger #RawMilk #Trial
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Defense: “Is there any reason you haven’t given Mr Hershberger his property back?”State: “Irrelevant!” (Sustained.) #Govt #Theft #RawMilk
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
State bores audience by reading from stolen documents listing prices & products offered by Vernon. 1 juror wears peace sign shirt. #RawMilk
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
State has Witness read Vernon’s statement on #CivilDisobedience and explanation of resistance. Asks for customer support despite raids.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Defense asks about the blacked-out portion of the statement read by witness. Emails presented are incomplete. #VernonHershberger #RawMilk
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Witness claims he produced a full report. He did not black out anything. Spent years looking at this info. Did not look at all files on comp
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
The State rests its case against #RawMilk #Farmer #VernonHershberger – A brief recess now. Defense prepares to call first witness to stand.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Court in recess. Courtroom is at 100% capacity. Jury returns. Defense calls 1st witness: Kathy Anderson, WI Dept of Agriculture, Inspector.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Defense: “Do you agree with me that dairy farmers and farm owners have the right to drink their own milk?”Anderson: “Yes” #RawMilk #Trial
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Court resumes. Room at FULL occupancy. No more allowed in. News crew filming. 70 people in attendance. #VernonHershberger #RawMilk #Trial
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Prosecution wants to strike Defense’s witnesses based on accusation that some watched trial. They’ve censored facts, why not witnesses too?
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Room appears to be 1/2 Amish, 1/2 modern. Defense resumes questioning Anderson (investigator). Video shown of witness raiding a home fridge.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Anderson admits knowing that the home fridge she raided was for personal use and that it’s uncommon for a retail store. #RawMilk #Trial
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Anderson admits she assumed #VernonHershberger owned everything, but also she doesn’t know, and didn’t ask. She simply assumed. #RawMilk
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Anderson admits assumption the pantry was retail store based on how it looked, but that she doesn’t know. #VernonHershberger #RawMilk #Trial
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Investigator Anderson admits that she knew some of the milk she ruined was for personal use. She did it anyway. #VernonHershberger #Trial
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Anderson can’t say if the 2300lbs of milk she ruined is “a lot.” She doesn’t remember giving #VernonHershberger an option in keeping it.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Investigator Anderson says dyed milk isnt “ruined.” Claims she would personally drink milk with blue dye added to it. #Liar #Govt #Injustice
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Judge proclaims Anderson’s own government document “hearsay” and not admissible as evidence because it has highlighting on it. #Govt #Logic
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Armed court bailiff has been staring down members of court audience with unrelenting, intimidating glare. #VernonHershberger #Govt #Thuggery
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Defense: “In your 26 years, has a farmer ever been charged criminally for such a thing?” (moving milk)Anderson: “I–I don’t know.” #RawMilk
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Defense calls Father of #VernonHershberger to the stand to testify. His son faces 30 months in jail for his #VictimlessCrimes #RawMilk
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Daniel Hershberger says it has been a pleasure being father of #VernonHershberger . Says son went to 8th grade and grew up on a dairy farm.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Defense asks “How do you milk a cow?” Humble Father Hershberger gestures milking with hands. Audience laughs. #Amish #RawMilk #Trial
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Daniel #Hershberger says nutrition is important to his religion. State objects. Judge sustains and strikes comment from record. #RawMilk
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Daniel #Hershberger reads document aloud. Court recorder bursts, “You have to slow down.” Courtroom erupts in laughter. Very funny witness.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Judge Reynolds forbids Daneil #Hershberger from describing what a member of his own farm is. State insists that’s a legal conclusion.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Defense: “Did you attend any ice cream socials at the farm?”D Hershberger: “Whatever it was, it was fun.”Audience laughs. Judge forbids it
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Daniel Hershberger: “Vernon is an honest seeker of the truth. That’s how I know him.” #VernonHershberger #RawMilk #Trial #Wisconsin #Farmer
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
State prosecutor being aggressive & belligerent toward Vernon’s dad. Jury shows furrowed brows and piercing stares. #Govt #Thugs
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
State puts paperwork above people. Daniel Hershberger says “I come from a generation where a handshake is worth something.” #RawMIlk #trial
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Daniel Hershberger makes it clear that he had a mutual agreement with his family members regardless or state paperwork. #8thGradeEducation
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
After 15 minute recess, court resumes. State argues that certain truths can’t be spoken, while sheriffs glare at & intimidate audience.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
While jury is away, Defense argues to judge that he is preventing a fair trial by forbidding essential evidence regarding the term “member.”
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Defense: “This is a trial, Judge, not an Inquiry. Mr Hershberger has a right to present the facts.” justin.tv/FarmFoodFreedom #RawMilk #Trial
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
The #State should be embarrassed. The Judge is shamelessly preventing facts from being presented to the jury. #FairTrial #VernonHershberger
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Judge has now spent over an hour trying to prevent pertinent facts and evidence of the case from reaching the jury #VernonHershberger #Trial
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Silence befalls the courtroom. Defense attorneys peruse thousands of pages of documents for a word they are allowed to use. #RawMilk #Trial
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Defense: “Mr Plasterer, do you have the document that we were referring to yesterday? Uh, earlier today. Feels like yesterday.” (Laughter)
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Bailiff approaches man in back row of audience. Demanded he remove a 1.5″ sticker from his shirt. Sticker reads “Local Food Rules”
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Defense: “Is the Hershberger farm comparable to Cosco or Sam’s Club?”OBJECTION! Calls for legal conclusion. (Sustained) #RawMilk #Trial
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Defense: “Are prices flexible at Grazin Acres?”Witness: “Yes.”D: “Ever encountered a retail establishment with flexible prices?”W: “No.”
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
D: Can the witness answer the question without being interrupted?S: Objection! Non-responsive.D: You can’t object to your own question.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
D: Can the witness answer the question without being interrupted?S: Objection! Non-responsive.D: You can’t object to your own question.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
#VernonHershberger #Trial in recess until tomorrow. Watch live 8:45am Central justin.tv/FarmFoodFreedom Should be final day. Verdict expected.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Eustace Conway & Joel Salatin speaking NOW LIVE watch now after Vernon Hershberger trial Justin.tv/FarmFoodFreedom
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 23, 2013
Joel Salatin is speaking behind me right now. I am livestreaming. Justin.tv/FarmFoodFreedom
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 24, 2013
Today is Day 3 of the Vernon Hershberger trial in Baraboo, Wisconsin. The day began with 3 hours of minutia about sales and licenses and types of products sold, and the totals of sales, the location of buyers, the purchase types (cash or credit), the price of shipping, the dates….Why not just read the phone book? It’s equally as productive and informative to the jury.
The State continues to embarrass itself by ignoring the moral issues at hand. They instead focus on arbitrary violations of “statutory law.” This “statutory law” has no connection to “common sense” law.
State witness and Investigator Jackie Owens testified all day, avoiding direct answers to questions, and actively obfuscating facts. The live-tweets of today’s events can be read below:
Trial of Vernon Hershberger Day 3 is beginning. Court room is filling up. Livestream at Justin.tv/FarmFoodFreedom
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Judge Reynolds won’t permit discussion or insinuation of raw milk in front of jury but giving opportunity to make comment on record.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Defense: “We can’t leave the jury in the dark…” Judge: “Yes we can.”
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Jury enters. Jackie Owens takes stand. Says holding order which she issued requires “the food” to stay where it is.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Jury returns. State plays video of raid. Owens identifies video of Agents sealing Hershberger’s freezers with tape. The food must not leave.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
State Agent and Leader of the Raid Jackie Owens testifies that Vernon was calm and relaxed during the entirety of the raid.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Owens testifies that the conversation explaining holding order to Vernon was uncomfortable for her. Doesn’t like keeping food from people.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Owens testifies that Vernon would not allow Agents to check on the sealed-up food at later dates. Holding order then extended indefinitely.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
State is asking witness about a “drop off point” as if talking about drug trafficking. We’re still talking about milk, eggs, & cheese right?
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
State bores all. Objection by Defense: “Are we going to go through 300 pages of this? This is really painful.”Overruled. #facepalm #stalling
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Defense questioning witness Jackie Owens: She affirms farmers can grow and consume food/milk without license. #Dairy #Farmer #Food #Freedom
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Trial Resumes after lunch. Defense asks, “Have you ever heard of a cowshare?”Witness responds, “Yes, it’s an illegal operation…”
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Trial Resumes after lunch. Defense asks, “Have you ever heard of a cowshare?”Witness responds, “Yes, it’s an illegal operation…”
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Defense cross-examines Owens. Witness evades. State objects to 90% questions. Judge sustains on reflex #KangarooCourt justin.tv/FarmFoodFreedom
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Defense: “Did you recognize the product?”Owens: “A Raw Milk product.”Judge: “That will be stricken from the record. Jury, disregard that.”
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Jury excused while State attempts to further gag Defense and obfuscate facts. Judge forbids mention of pertinent facts #RuleOfLaw #Justice
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Jury excused while State attempts to further gag Defense and obfuscate facts. Judge forbids mention of pertinent facts #RuleOfLaw #Justice
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
State: The jury doesn’t decide the law; they decide the facts.Defense: DTCAP’s request for information is part of the story. It IS a fact.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Defense: “Judge, you’re cutting the Defense here into little pieces.”Judge: “What’s the purpose of this?”Defense: “They set him up, Judge”
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Defense: “I need to be able to bring out the bias of every witness against Vernon. His life is on the line. I’m entitled to expose this.”
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Judge: “I’m not going to permit reference to the last 4 pages (of raid document) or allow it into evidence.” So much for bringing out truth!
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
The art of evading questions and obfuscating the truth, by Jackie Owens: justin.tv/FarmFoodFreedom #VernonHershberger #RawMilk #Trial #Bias
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Defense: “What is Progressive Compliance?”Owens: “The least amount of enforcement necessary to gain compliance.” #WhoOwnsYou #RawMilk
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Defense: “When he lost his milk producer license, he went back to being a dairy farmer, correct?”Owens: “He was no longer a milk producer.”
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Defense: After losing his license, did Vernon continued to milk his cows?Owens: YesDefense: He could give that to family, yes?OBJECTION!
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Defense begins showing videos of #RawMilk Farm raid. Investigator Jackie Owens avoids answering basic yes/no questions, showing clear bias.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
D: “It LOOKS like a retail store to you, but what people DO with the product is what makes it a retail store, true?” OBJECTION! (Sustained.)
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Defense: “If Vernon took a stick of butter from one freezer and put it in another, that’s a violation of the hold order?”Owens: “It moved.”
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Defense: “Mr Hershberger gave you his hard drive, did he not?”Owens: “No he didn’t. We took it.” #VernonHershberger #Criminal #Govt #Theft
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Defense: “Did you advocate for 42 criminal counts against Mr Hershberger?”Owens: “I didn’t realize it was quite that few…” #KangarooCourt
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Defense: “You were trying to send a message to this man by charging 42 counts?”Owens: “No.”Defense: “Then why not 1 count?”OBJECTION!!
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Defense: “You want to see Mr Hershberger convicted, don’t you?”Owens: “Is that a personal question or professional question?” #State #Bias
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Owens admits to placing dye in 2000 lbs of milk that could have been used by the Hershberger family, rendering it undrinkable by humans.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Defense: “Why couldn’t you let him keep his milk instead of destroying it?”Owens: “Because they didn’t ask, and we didn’t offer.” #RawMilk
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Day 3 of the Trial of #RawMilk #Farmer #VernonHershberger Court is in recess until tomorrow at 8:45am — watch live justin.tv/FarmFoodFreedom
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 22, 2013
Today was the second day of the trial of Vernon Hershberger. The state introduced boring document after boring document, but the Defense was quick to object (to relevance). In my opinion, Defense Attorney Ken Reynolds wiped the floor with the Prosecution.
The state asked the jury to get up and leave 4 times. They have to be wondering, “What am I missing? What am I being kept from seeing?” The defense stands for openness
You can watch the video for yourself at Justin.TV/FarmFoodFreedom
I sat in on the trial and live-tweeted from the inside:
Watch Live! Vernon Hershberger Trial Day 2. Showing photo evidence now. Justin.tv/FarmFoodFreedom the Defense is wiping floor with the state.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 21, 2013
Inspector says it is his opinion that Vernon ran a retail establishment but doesn’t know if he keeps hours or if public is allowed in.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 21, 2013
After brief recess, court adjourns. Courtroom is now at 90% capacity.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 21, 2013
Before Jury returns, the State is objecting to photos of raid being shown.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 21, 2013
Judge Reynolds gives respectful admonition regarding children in the courtroom. Kids are being noisy.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 21, 2013
State shows LLC document showing Vernon applied as an agriculture business in 2004, NOT as retail.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 21, 2013
Surprise! The State wants to present more boring documents instead of giving arguments. No content, just smoke.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 21, 2013
The judge will not allow the defense to reveal the relationship dept of financial institutions and dept of agriculture. Why Vernon’s pinned.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 21, 2013
Again, more boring documents from the state. Defense objects on relevance grounds. Judge rules it’s Hearsay. State makes no arguments.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 21, 2013
Department of Revenue agent takes stand. Says nothing is wrong with his forms. Says they don’t care what Vernon does. The Defense rocks.
— Derrick J. Freeman (@derrickjfreeman) May 21, 2013
Today is day one of the Trial of Raw Milk Dairy Farmer Vernon Hershberger of Wisconsin.
Yesterday, I left Philadelphia for DC to meet up with Liz Reitzig. We drove 12 hours to Chicago to pick up heavy-hitter Michael Badnarick and videographer extraordinaire, Blane. After 3 more hours of driving, we arrived at The Weary Traveler, a wholesome food restaurant which sources its meat from local Wisconsin farmers. The owner, Breggan, is a customer of Vernon’s.
After finishing a late-night dinner around midnight, we headed to the hotel where we checked in and rested up for the big day.
As of 2pm (the time of this post), a jury has been selected, and opening arguments are set to begin shortly. About 60 people are convened inside the Ringling Bros. theater, where they are eating a donation-supported lunch and talking about food freedom.
More updates as they come. Follow @PeaceNewsNow on twitter for live updates on the trial.
