Bahl’s Verdict: Guilty
Guilt by obstruction without force
60 days jail, suspended pending good behavior
anger management class
one year probation with no supervision
fine $ 778
COMMENTARY: I’ve been hearing bits about the trial the last three days. All I can say… a travesty of justice.
I don’t know Bahl personally. But from what everybody has been telling me, he is a gentle and sweet man. What happened during this trial, on top of what I have observed with Daphne Wright trial, leaves me deeply concerned about deaf people in the judicial system.  In other words, God helps any Deaf person unlucky to end up in the judicial court.
I have had reservations about this trial.. since what had transpired in the court two days ago. MZ
UPDATE: There will be no appeal for this verdict. Please do notice he is charged guilty for obstruction without force. In other words, he has been found innocent in the charge of ‘attacking’ the officers. Obviously the jury didn’t believe the officer’s claims Bahl attacked him first. But the question remains why he was charged guilty for obstruction in the first place? For shaking his head and not cooperating with the police? How can he cooperate with the police if he couldn’t understand what they said, especially after being blinded by the pepper spray? There are a lot of puzzling questions left unanswered.
Bahl will be focusing on his upcoming civil right violations he experienced at the jail last Nov. MZ
Guilt by obstruction without force
60 days jail, suspended pending good behavior
anger management class
one year probation with no supervision
fine $ 778
COMMENTARY: I’ve been hearing bits about the trial the last three days. All I can say… a travesty of justice.
I don’t know Bahl personally. But from what everybody has been telling me, he is a gentle and sweet man. What happened during this trial, on top of what I have observed with Daphne Wright trial, leaves me deeply concerned about deaf people in the judicial system.  In other words, God helps any Deaf person unlucky to end up in the judicial court.
I have had reservations about this trial.. since what had transpired in the court two days ago. MZ
UPDATE: There will be no appeal for this verdict. Please do notice he is charged guilty for obstruction without force. In other words, he has been found innocent in the charge of ‘attacking’ the officers. Obviously the jury didn’t believe the officer’s claims Bahl attacked him first. But the question remains why he was charged guilty for obstruction in the first place? For shaking his head and not cooperating with the police? How can he cooperate with the police if he couldn’t understand what they said, especially after being blinded by the pepper spray? There are a lot of puzzling questions left unanswered.
Bahl will be focusing on his upcoming civil right violations he experienced at the jail last Nov. MZ
September 14th, 2007 at 5:12 pm
WHHHHAAAAATTTT??????????
What?
WHAT?
what?
w*H*a*T???
Bahl is guilty? Just becuz he was trying to defend himself after being blinded with pepper spray?
Becuz he was trying to tell the officer that he cannot hear by pointing at his ear and shaking his head?
And… guilty of that?
What are we supposed to do when we meet cops?
Unbelieve*FUCKING*able!
I’m sick to my stomach too.
Amy Cohen Efron
September 14th, 2007 at 5:20 pm
Geez!
Come on, Police Officers! You were *NOT* trained about the deaf culture!
Police people ***USED*** and treated deaf people like a dumb!
No one witnessed the incident between Bahl and the police officers! That is the main problem!
Let’s uproar this for Bahl!
White Ghost
September 14th, 2007 at 5:27 pm
NO way! This is crazy! I anticipated Bahl to get compensation and that the officers are guilty. I happened to know him as I could not imagine having him being portrayed as the one who provokes the officers. This is outrageous!
Only if there is a video like Rodney King, we would protest over this decision immediately. Without it, it is all heresay and that is the most frustrating part having no strong evidence. I am sure that appeal will be in the picture?
I am so shocked and am in disbelief. That’s right, Amy it is so unbelieve*FUCKING*able!!!
September 14th, 2007 at 5:47 pm
Oh please you people have no idea of the true story. If anybody would actually look at the facts instead of feel sorry for a man that is deaf! He has the same rights and responsibilities of every person in society. I don’t believe a cop would just beat a guy because he doesn’t talk! Bahl is obviously a person in need of anger management.
September 14th, 2007 at 5:50 pm
Well,
First, the trial is on the charge of obstruction of justice. The police brutality isn’t an issue here.
But if it did happen, then Mr. Bahl should file a 1983 suit. Why isn’t he?
For everyone’s clarification, below is the text of 42 U.S.C. § 1983:
“Every person who under color of any statute, ordinance, regulation, custom, or usage, of any State or Territory or the District of Columbia, subjects, or causes to be subjected, any citizen of the United States or other person within the jurisdiction thereof to the deprivation of any rights, privileges, or immunities secured by the Constitution and laws, shall be liable to the party injured in an action at law, Suit in equity, or other proper proceeding for redress, except that in any action brought against a judicial officer for an act or omission taken in such officer’s judicial capacity, injunctive relief shall not be granted unless a declaratory decree was violated or declaratory relief was unavailable. For the purposes of this section, any Act of Congress applicable exclusively to the District of Columbia shall be considered to be a statute of the District of Columbia.”
September 14th, 2007 at 5:54 pm
to john rad ~
do you happen to know Bahl well? He was aware of what was going on with the policemen. He knew how to behave properly with policemen…And yet, as older guy, he was beaten. Oh, please, what did you mean that he needs an anger management??
Something s not right…something’s fishy..
deafk
September 14th, 2007 at 5:58 pm
I ain’t surprised! Look what cops did to my deformed ears in Houston. They did not give a shit. I am mildly brain damaged like Mike Mc Connell from that incident. As for Bahl, maybe he could come and give his presentation at every ASL Expo event.
September 14th, 2007 at 6:05 pm
I don’t know, according to the media, he had several traffic violations, when police stopped him for running through a red light, he refused to talk to them (my guess would be that he preferred to have an interpreter), the police probably continued to talk to him, making him even more furious. He then punched the police’s arm and bit a police’s thumb, now I don’t know if there was one police or if they called for backup police and the situation got worse there. Also what baffles me is that they sprayed pepper spray on him — did they do that after he punched the police’s arm or before?
There’s not enough facts in Bahl’s story. I noticed when he was interviewed, he didn’t really say much except that he was denied a TTY and that he felt so scared in his life.
If we could only get more information and facts about what really happened, then we should react properly about supporting Bahl’s situation. I’ve looked through various media blogs, I am still not satisfied with the information that they gave out, it is very minimal. I wonder why.
As for sentencing, Bahl got off lightly, he probably will not go to jail, he will be on probation without supervision but for anger management classes, the state would have to be really sure that there will be a certified interpreter for Bahl at all times so that he can participate fully. Many times, deaf people had to forego anger management classes simply because the state could not find an interpreter or forgot to reserve one.
September 14th, 2007 at 6:11 pm
It is just that it is much harder on us who happen to know him personally. We even discussed briefly about the case and he swore that he never punched the cops.
You are right, I don’t have enough information to make any judgement on the case. There are a lot of questions that left us in a baffled state.
Is there a transcript we can read from the court or something to help us understand what evidence was used against him?
September 14th, 2007 at 6:19 pm
What’s new?!!!!!
Matt Hamill
Doug Bahl
The Deaf Community needs to stand up and show to the society that Deaf people do have dignity and need to be treated equal and fairly.
Apparently the society assume that the deaf community doesn’t deserve to be dignified is because the Deaf people have been too damn passive from being so oppressed by AGBell’s ideology of forbidding American Sign Language for the Deaf Community since 1880.
Don’t let anybody call you a Deaf Militant just because you stand up for your rights to tell the world that AGBell/AVT are abusing Deaf babies by forbidding sign language while all other hearing babies are allowed to learn sign language.
And then finally we will be dignified by the public after they realize what AGBell/AVT have been doing for over 100 years.
John Egbert
Deaf Bilingual Coalition
September 14th, 2007 at 6:26 pm
Well, we have to address the issue of judicial system whether the real justice prevails for deaf people or not.
Someone bit the law enforcement officer which is beyond comprehension. The best way is to cooperate with the law enforcement officer no matter how we are treated. Just keep a cool mind.
I was once sprayed with pepper spray by the store owner while the store door was closed much earlier than usual. I shook the door to get the attention of store employees. They spoke verbally. I demanded the note and pad for communication clarification.
Next thing, I knew was pepper sprayed by the store manager. I suffocated as my eyes and throat clearly burned. I ran to the nearby bar to relieve myself.
I found out that the use of mace was a violation of DC law. I was going to file the formal complaint against the store and store manager. I was concerned whether I had no eyewitness beside myself. Their words (two store employees and store manager) against me - one person. Yes, there was a video survilleance camera. I had to let this whole incident go than aggraving myself thru the judicial system.
I am much sure that the bad karma will come down to those involved people in timely manner.
From the perspective of hearing people, I probably acted irrationally or not. I just wanted to ask why the store closed earlier than usual.
I am not sympathetic toward law enforcement officers. Immediate cooperation is the best way to keep the situation under control.
Court transcript do not tell the whole story anyway. Observe the court in person is much better than reading the dry transcript (edited).
Robert L. Mason (RLM)
September 14th, 2007 at 6:29 pm
I truly think that Bahl was afraid that the police officers would *NOT* understand his (Bahl’s) grammars. The reason why he requested to have an interpreter to communicate with the police much easier.
The reason why the police officers were not that great compassion on the disability issue.
Call for NAD lawyers to investigate on Bahl’s case.
White Ghost
September 14th, 2007 at 6:33 pm
WHHHHAATTT!
I cannot beleive Court failure of recongized of the signal of police and deaf person cannot communicate without pad and pen.
Why not you go ADA lawyer and contact NAD. I am totally pissed off!
September 14th, 2007 at 6:35 pm
I am totally sick and The world never understand what is DEAF Meaning cannot communicate or cannot write.. ADA Lawyere did not always perfect law! with judge. WTF!!! I agree with Amy’s angry..
“Head Signal” mean signal of body language. Police need clean their asshole!!
Margaret
September 14th, 2007 at 6:49 pm
I really don’t understand that whole story at all, even at the price of which sides (police vs. Bahl) at the scene. Duh — its like to prey upon on Deaf too easily. Just switch the Ear flip-on (to be hearing) — I think nothing has happen probably. It’s just plainly wrong to know if Deaf feel distracted as if he pointed to his ear (indicted he’s Deaf) — I would say myself “what’s next” … this Guilty verdict gives the idea that Deaf driver cannot show a police person whether he’s Deaf or not. Should he keep quiet (while given a ticket ??) … or maybe we SHOULD know next time — Deaf driver should sit down (like hearing person always do that) as a police person walk to car’s window … then Deaf has to turn sideways … be polite and gentle (like hearing) and say “excuse me i am deaf … what I did wrong ??” [first talk] then showing [by hand] pen and paper to write [by gentle move hands showing that body language] ?? Is that proper way ???????
Hey if that’s true (i agree with Bahl yes) … I would show by pointing my Ear, indicting I am Deaf … I felt that its correct way —- however that’s in OUR DEAF CIRCLE. The police didn’t know then we have to look at police — (in back mind, know that all police people didn’t know about deaf needs — yeah how sad) … thats means we must feel polite to them.
Hey, I am pissed off (yes reallllllly damn it — this is so crazy) … i believe if the court bring up that crime against him — WHY NOT the people (prosecution) showing and reduce something to make very “humble” solution ??????
That is DAAAAAAAMMMMNNNNNNNN “Mean Old Police” — going back to Old 1950’s Black Crimes in Deep South.
Oh man — hope APPEAL ??????????????
Charles
September 14th, 2007 at 6:52 pm
That is not acceptable!
The jury, the court and the blue boys need deaf 101 to understand the sensitivity of the issue.
I have no faith in jury, court, blue boys and the system.
It is so CORRUPTED!
They are bunch of hypocrites who think they are ABOVE the law!
Just recent case, a guy had videotaped a cop harrassing him and trying to make up a charge to arrest him. All in that pig’s own words. It caused an uproar!
So for Bahl, I knew him personally at Gally. He is gentleman and would not do anything radically.
Yes, his rights was DEPRIVED when he had to stay in slammer for 3 fucking days! He was deprived when he had NO INTERPRETER! THat’s unbeievable! It appears those cops are dumber than anyone in that town! Where have they been? Hello? Hello? It is 21st century and it is time to be aware of people with disability and their needs.
Bahl can start civil lawsuit against those ignorant cops, courts, jury and anything related to their moronic behaviors!
September 14th, 2007 at 6:58 pm
SIGH! It goes to show. To win a case, you gotta go OJ style, despite being innocent or guilty. Hire the best team [lawyer]. Bring on national attention to the case. NAD surely did not get on the scene, JESSE JACKSON + Al Sharpton style. The deaf need “JESSE JACKSON” + “AL SHARPTON” to bring attention ot our cases. Look at Rodney king and OJ. Tehy made a mockery of the system.
I wonder how the lawyer presented the case. I recall, Bahl had “neighorhood lawyer” appointed to his case. I was surrpise with BAHL’s choice.
I had lawyers for auto accident and work related injury. I felt they did not do their homework thoroughly. Oh yeah, I got something from the case. Overall, I lost…due to loss time, time struggling with issues and fine details, struggling with injuries, it goes on. But time with lawyer were at a minimum, if any. Not like those “lawyer case” on TV.
September 14th, 2007 at 7:01 pm
That’s an outrage. I hope NAD and the deaf state association gets together and helps Bahl out.
For me personally, when I am pulled over by the police, I turn off the engine and put the keys on the dashboard or next to me. That way the police know I am not going to run from them. I also keep my hands on the steering wheel until they approach, then I SLOWLY gesture that I’m deaf.
So far it’s worked for me.
September 14th, 2007 at 7:01 pm
First things first.
Being Deaf is dangerous. We would get hurt by police regardless of what we do.
If police stopped me I would put my hands up so they can see it and COMPLY what they request regardless on how I feel. If I DO feel violated. I will get a lawyer and file a lawsuit.
Do NOT resist to any police. Why would police use pepper spray on him? There’s MORE to this story than it appears to be.
I totally agree this is totally unfair but you must realize there is MORE to the story and why the police would use pepper spray.
Bahl is lucky. He doesn’t have to go to jail for 60 days.
It is indeed dangerous to be Deaf.
September 14th, 2007 at 7:09 pm
I agree with Deaf Pundit’s suggestion to turn off engine. I never thought of that. It might be more safety. How can he cannot ablet o stand by video camera by police car?? … I just keep wonder why No one training the police Department. 45 years ago Oregon School for the Deaf .. One of guy died by shot by police. it was 1967’s that time. Today is not safety with deaf anymore. CANNOT TRUST COP AT ALL!
September 14th, 2007 at 7:16 pm
Hey Hey Hey BOSTON (comment # 19 — *Boston Says: September 14th, 2007 at 7:01 pm)
Well well, you said “Deaf is dangerous” … it sure looks that way. HOWEVER if you are Deaf, you probably WONT say that way. I think you are acted like as being “little Deaf” — we all ought should be TEAM UP altogether with all Deaf people, all kinds of walks with all different methods of communication, no matter what — LOOK AT 1950′S BLACK RIGHTS MARCH UP with thousands and thousands of BLACK people roaming like Roar of Lions and making all justice system realize this way !!!! I guess just like Black Rights take time from 1950’s to 2000’s … NOWADAYS, we start as our REAL Deaf Rights — beginning right now in 2000’s … might take 50 years later (hope 20 years) THIS KIND OF CASE WILL PROBABLY BE NEVER HAPPENED AT ALL. Its just sucks and succccccckkkkkkks like if you’re sucking the whole Broom Stick (that long !!!!)
Oh man — come on all Deaf Rights — (oh Boston person … you need wake up your own four eyes)
Bahl supporter (oh yeah maybe there are some more “hidden story” there in court room — but however TV news would probably find out and put on real Live on TV (or newspaper) … BUT nothing happened. That’s means not much things hidden above that case at all. SHAME THE JUSTICE SYSTEM.
Charles
September 14th, 2007 at 7:20 pm
FYI, Bahl is not always sweet and nice guy. There have been people who have seen him lose his temper so I am not surprised that he was required to take anger management classes.
Secondly, there are many facts that are not clear in both sides. Bahl did fight back (probably because he couldn’t see, but the law says that you cannot fight back with the police.
From what it seems, the police didn’t know that he was deaf for a while. The police’s FIRST job is to protect himself.
And Bahl will sue the city for the no interpreter or TTY part later, this trail was not about that.
September 14th, 2007 at 7:24 pm
Oh back to point — look at Comment # 15 (what I wrote down) … yes we all Deaf people has to realize:
We have to be sit down and very firmly polite and respond to police … if not understand, just gently show respect and talk (yes talk) — why ?? becuz they will know the deaf voice is strange — anyway then show humble way show need pen and paper. Then BE STILL. The police will look calmer anyway (fast or slow) but will come.
Oh man — which that could not happen like that. But its good for Deaf people to show our Rights. Yes. Remember !!!! If we Deaf want to talk about our Rights, THEN talk about AFTER WHAT HAPPEN. Then we can win easier.
Let see how Bahl will do — can Appeal ???
Charles
September 14th, 2007 at 7:30 pm
Hey “Live in Mpls” –
That’s true and world fact of life — police has to protect FIRST. You know Bahl is not always nice — however he is nice in many other ways. Its like 80, 90, 95, 98 percent of “nice time of day” … you got the good point !!! Maybe Bahl is little bit “agigate” in that road stop by police. Good point, but let see how Bahl will do ? Maybe we will find out little bit more story afterwards ?? It ought be very interesting, let see.
Charles
September 14th, 2007 at 7:34 pm
It is weird to read the guilty verdit, the certian words, Obstruction without FORCE… Hmm.. Why that? ? Guilty based on no force ?
Anyway, if necessary, we need to gather people and set up rallies to speak up about the ignorant policemen had shown toward us the deafies… Rallies at Police Stations…
Perhaps Deaf101 is not enough?
About fifteen years ago, there were a committee trying to set up a position in the state with police stations to teach them the way of deaf lives. I did not stay longer, and I left. I was wondering all about it. I feel EVERY state should have a position of ASL/Deaf Culture Instructor to teach the police…
Again, Do. Not. Trust. A. Cop. Get an interpreter/ or friend who knows signs before you contact any cop!!
deafk
September 14th, 2007 at 7:47 pm
deafk,
The State of Police Department would not want to learn the training about deaf and the stuff. They would not.. I hope Bahl get a fair trail for appeal. It seem it is not being fair with two cops vs one deaf is defenseless?
Deaf Pixie
September 14th, 2007 at 7:47 pm
Deleted.
Advertising not permitted here
September 14th, 2007 at 7:52 pm
Something that All of good idea to rally to protest as Deaf community to Courthouse. Why not??
September 14th, 2007 at 7:52 pm
Then Rallies & Marches til we are heard!!
deafk
September 14th, 2007 at 7:56 pm
LET SAY BE HEARD (WAVY OUR HANDS UP FIRE UP):
“Let That Bang Be Heard ‘Round The World”
That famous quote in baseball — that apply also for all of us DEAFIES !!!
Bang in Graval — in favor of our Deaf Rights.
Charles
September 14th, 2007 at 8:04 pm
hi I am wondering did Doug Bahl gets his good lawyer to protect his rights??? I know him pretty well since were were young.. He is a good and hard work guy… Really, Overall, He is a good guy. I am sure alot of deafies have a short temper due to lack of communication and frustrations sometime… same goes for Doug. Hopefully He will get another appeal with a good lawyer who flucent in ASL…keep praying for him. do not ever give up:) KH
September 14th, 2007 at 8:33 pm
I am not surprised. I know that Deaf person who had been through in a several years ago. Can’t disclose the details. Something wrong with the picture out there.
September 14th, 2007 at 8:34 pm
I need to know the actual details whether Bahl did punch the officer’s arm before or after the mace spray’s action. Please. Thanks.
September 14th, 2007 at 8:43 pm
I understand the Deaf Community’s outrage regarding to the trial. He was judged by the jury of his peers and the evidence was presented for the jury to see. Did Mr. Bahl hire an attorney that knows Deaf issues? In the courtroom its attorney vs. attorney and the best presentation by an attorney wins.
Did Mr. Bahl’s attorney file a civil rights complaint with the United States government? Did Mr. Bahl’s attorney hire an expert witness who specializes in Deaf on Law Enforcement communication issues? Did his attorney present spraying mace on the Deaf defendant’s eyes as cruel and illegal.
If not, this is what the jury gets and nothing else. This is why a Deaf citizen MUST hire an attorney who is familiar with Deaf issues and their civil rights.
I am questioning on the quality of legal services by Mr. Bahl’s attorney.
September 14th, 2007 at 8:43 pm
Is there a transcript somewhere? Was Doug Bahl represented by counsel? Was this a jury trial or judged by a sitting judge? Is an appeal in the works? Hopefully more information will come in about the case, so we as a Deaf community can be better informed when it comes to relations with police.
September 14th, 2007 at 9:10 pm
What about the access like TTY while he jailed for 4 days? That is an important part for the Deaf right’s needs. Like the pay phone is available at the jail. Court Judges and dumb police officers, WAKE UP FOR THEIR DEAF RIGHT OF NEEDS.
September 14th, 2007 at 9:21 pm
First of all, I think the NAD should definitely work with the ACLU about this. They have LOTS of experience with police brutality cases, and NAD has LOTS of experience with deaf cases, so they need to work together.
Also, I do not think it is dangerous to be Deaf. It is dangerous to be too aggressive around cops, no matter whether you are Deaf or hearing. No matter what, if you are meeting with a cop, you MUST be calm and do what they say. Very few cops actually WANT to hurt people…some do but not many. I think every time somebody is beaten by police it is a MISUNDERSTANDING. Same as happened with Bahl. So if you just follow along with them, tell them you are Deaf, and make sure they know you are TRYING to comply…then you should be okay. If they don’t understand you WANT to do what they tell you, maybe they will think you are aggressive. Put a smile on your face and gesture that you are Deaf. Keep smiling until they understand!
And no I don’t believe that pointing to your ear is only for sign language people to understand…I think it is a universal gesture, makes sense to everybody. As long as you are calm while you do it, don’t forget to smile, you are okay. I think anyway.
September 14th, 2007 at 9:29 pm
Here is the form that Doug should fill out to request help from the ACLU:
https://www.aclu-mn.org/legal/fileacomplaint/intakeform/
September 14th, 2007 at 9:35 pm
Abosolutely!!!! I agree Meredith’s comment is very very common to deal with deaf’s guesture often end up of misunderstood. But, I dont really understand why it seem so weak case? Meredith’s opinion Bahl should try to file at ALCU. ALCU often found good investiage with the cops sometime sleazy! NOT all the whole of cops sleazy .. Need to find evidence. Dont focus on ASL but, ALCU would investiaged better than hire “fake ” Priviate Investiage or cheaper hire someone else who dont familiar with COP’s systems can be tricky with ADA or NAD. Hire ACLU would fight for Bahl’s case.. Think about it. Tell Bahl to read my comment. I pray for Bahl case might be reversed, again.
September 14th, 2007 at 10:13 pm
I personally think those cops need an anger management course … actually, make that ALL cops need to take that class.
un-FUCKing-believable is all I can say.
September 14th, 2007 at 10:22 pm
The reason I root and support Bahl’s case JUST for all of us Deafies. Why ?? okay let give you the clear scenerio:
For Hearing: in same place and police catch (same way like Bahl) — for communication, probably NO PROBLEMS AT ALL. That driver comply just normal and get ticket for running thru red light. That’s all … okay on HIS crime record is ZERO.
For Deaf: look at Bahl’s case, in same place and police catch (exactly like above) — for communication become very confused and agigated (you can’t help it) as react what police would say. This deaf driver got arrested and more than just the ticket, got otherwise be prosecuted for something a crime (obstruction of justice without force) being bought up — wow. Now he’s guilty by the court jury … see he as this is deaf person — he HAS to be more careful as per agreed from jury and judge be handed down — wow feel like “a invisible prisoner in freedom lands” … he don’t feel free (being mind moggled down everyday) — UNTIL finish one year probation. Its effect him. It give so much thought to think to protect family, jobs, own living etc etc etc blah !!!!
WHAT ABOUT THAT DAMN HEARING DRIVER ABOVE !!!! smoking cigar and feel free toooooooooooooo.
THINK ABOUT THAT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
That’s why we MUST fight for our EQUAL living with hearing people — for our POWER Deaf Rights !!!!!!
Pow pow whooooo BRAVO … Be Deaf WAY !!!!!!
Deaf-powering, Charles
September 14th, 2007 at 10:25 pm
YEAH …. give all COPS the anger-management with Roman-style whipping on their nude ASS !!!!!!!
Let go Throttle-Hammering FUCKING milk-shaker Superliner !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Come on, we are proud Dead Heads !!!
Charles
September 14th, 2007 at 10:27 pm
Geez, nowadays, Most police got scared of gestures because they think gestures can lead to reach something. Best is to quiet and give the card saying “Im Deaf and I cant see you if you put flashlight on my face/eyes. Request for an interpreter if necessary”. It will made Police in control to know that deaf driver is about. I thanked MD for giving me that card to ease ourselves down. I hope all of the states have these cards to provided to all deafies when police stopped all of us. Best to be ready to display the card to police…Save our troubles..
Leigh
September 14th, 2007 at 10:28 pm
Yes it is un-FUCKing-believable — It is very un-FUCKing-fortunate situation that can happen to anyone. This is no FUCKing-shit out there. Hope you all have a nice FUCKing- weekend! Diane
September 14th, 2007 at 10:40 pm
This is redicilous!! Like what many other commenters stated: un-FUCKING-believable!!
Let’s start a RIOT!
This would be the only way the Deaf people can be H E A R D!
September 14th, 2007 at 10:50 pm
I’m AMAZED he was judged guilty…was there mention of a video? Witnesses? Will the court transcript become available to the public?
Bahl may have become upset if the cop was being rude or insensitive to him…he might have touched the cop and this was interpreted as being aggressive…might have bit the cop’s thumb if the cop put his hand on Bahl’s face in struggling with him. Was it before or after being pepper sprayed? How might he have avoided the situation? How might the cops have handled it differently? All good questions.
We in the deaf community NEED to know the facts to protect ourselves better when meeting cops!
My dad, who was a cop, told me, “never trust a cop just because he is a cop!” In self-defense, one should always be over-courteous and friendly to all cops and anticipate that they will be giving orders and react badly if they feel threatened. The cops are just as dangerous as the dangerous criminals, because they are trained to be.
They are under pressure because so many people they deal with are under the influence of drugs or violence in their communities. Getting angry with a paranoid cop never works out.
Doug, don’t drop this. Get an ACLU lawyer and sue the cops for the beating, for the violation of human rights, for violating the ADA, and for behaving in a way not conductive to “protect and serve”. You’re not doing it for yourself, you are doing it for the rest of the Deaf community. And God bless.
September 14th, 2007 at 11:00 pm
Dianrez’s comment is make clarfity everyone to getting protest at court house becuase Doug doesn’t deserved and did not received any of his right and A.D.A did not combine with the cop. GET ACLU. Do Something!!! I agree with what Dianrez say that we cannot trust cop. thats what I was told that The cop sometime sleazy. They do!!
September 14th, 2007 at 11:04 pm
Debora’s correct that the cop sometime need anger management. Abuse on Doug for no reason when he is tried so hard to gesture him that he was tell the cop that he cannot hear and have to be clairfy clearly that the cop think he is fake deaf? Do you think about Getting some help him to get hold of ACLU. I agree almost all of the comment. I think he need some help from your support, too..
September 14th, 2007 at 11:13 pm
Shaking my head in disbelief and beyond my comprehension! Unquestionably something wrong with the picture! The NAD must intervene the injustice of the entire system in court as well as of the police! I am angry on behalf of Doug Bahl. Why guilty of obstruction? What about Miranda rights? Why was his face swollen with purple bruises? Elizabeth, have you contacted the NAD?
We, deaf Americans, must not stand apathetic and passive. We must do something. Otherwise, more and more deaf people would be wrongldy mistreated the way Doug Bahl has been.
Deeply in disbelief.
September 14th, 2007 at 11:18 pm
Clearly, Bahl was percieved as being aggessive perhaps due to frustruation, but from my experience, never show frustruation towards a cop. They don’t tolerate frustratin too well and tend to intepret it as aggression. When you are frustrasted with a cop, it is best to be calm, count to 10 or whatever, and let the cop do whatever he wants, let him yak, and you can only repeat gestures you couldn’t hear and need paper and pen. At one point, the cop would have caught on when you don’t respond with voice and use gestures. Some cops are very dense.
My guess is Bahl had a short fuse and it worked against him in his case. It was unfortunate.
It’s been acknowledged in court that Bahl did not attack the cop but that he was not cooperative. However, he DID have evidence of being attacked by the cop due to percieved aggression - am not sure if Bahl could countersue on that ground, however, the cop’s first priorityy is always to protect himself so it was perfectly allowed for him to mace Bahl but to hit him with the stick? I am not sure about that one. I think that was over the top.
This case reminds me of the case where the black deaf guy was shot by a cop when he was holding a lawn rake - the cop percived it as aggression and shot him even when his family members yelled to the cop that he was deaf and wouuldn’t be able to understand what was said to him. Lawn rake a weapon?? Really tragic. He lost his life because the cop percived as lousy lawn rake as a weapon.
I think more and more cops are too interested in protecting themselves than serving the public and sometimes that cost lives of innocent people.
September 14th, 2007 at 11:42 pm
Wow.
Words can’t express how furious I am at this point.
Our culture obviously had been oppressed. The U.S. justice system has a lot to learn.
We need to stress the police academies to start training the officers about how to deal with the situation when they confront Deaf people for any traffic violations and/or crimes. Basic ASL should be provided during these trainings.
Sigh. Bahl did what he had to do to defend his deafness and demanded equal communication access.
Mishka Zena, I want to congratulate you for breaking the record! (I’m not sure if this is a record… But it looks like it is) for receiving over 50 comments and nearly 350 views (DeafRead’s viewing counter) in just SIX HOURS!
September 14th, 2007 at 11:52 pm
Hi there–
Wanted to make some clarify here…
Doug isn’t in jail right now. If he does ANY crime during his probation period, he will be taken to jail for 60 days. Which I believe he wouldn’t do anything criminally.
Secondly, he was in trial with the police who arrested and beated him– the police sued Doug for the incident. He had interpreters at the court house HOWEVER, they weren’t that great! GRR GRR!
The jurors found Doug guilt because the police grabbed Doug’s arm. Doug was trying to communicate with the police– so, he released his arm to get paper and pen. Then the whole thing happened– He “wanted” to be in charge not the police officer (that is what jury’s perspective and police’s lawyer said that)…
I still believe that Doug had the right to get paper and pen to COMMUNICATE! The whole thing was the COMMUNICATION barrier!! If there was communication, then the WHOLE thing would not have happen AT ALL!!
Doug also has another civil case with what happened to him at the jail. So, hope this case, Doug will win which I believe he will…
Poor Doug and his wife and their family had to go through those craps!
September 14th, 2007 at 11:55 pm
One thing I forgot to add– OF COURSE, Doug mentioned to the police that he was deaf and needs paper and pen to communicate… Instead of getting paper and pen, the police grabbed Doug’s arm–
September 14th, 2007 at 11:59 pm
Well, well, well, there is many number of issues are needed to address but unfortunately for Mr. Bahl’s case. He gets guility and he might not get excat what he hired an attorney for violation of his civil rights, He still has an opportunity to file an appeal but with understanding to find right attorney who specializes in that field of civil rights for Deaf or Disability and I wonder what happen to Minn Association of the Deaf seems back off or apathy about that concerning about civil right of Deaf citzens in that state?
September 15th, 2007 at 12:09 am
Smiles,
That’s awful.. absolutely inexcusable for the cop to treat him this way.. when he only wanted to use paper and pen, AFTER informing the cop he is deaf How could he have communicate without paper and pen? They didn’t care that the cop knew he was deaf, his rights to exercise speech as an American protected by ADA were violated and he got beaten up as a result???? To add to the insult, he was charged guilty for obstruction…. only because he wanted to communicate???
*shaking head in disbelief*
Something is very wrong with the hearing jurors.
September 15th, 2007 at 12:10 am
Addendum:
The NAD has to act now. They must educate the police in all states that sign language must NOT be perceived as a form of resistance — or aggressiveness, for that matter. They must demand the police to learn some basic sign language when they want to communicate with deaf drivers. If the police were not educated, we, deaf people, would see more and more arrogant pigs!
September 15th, 2007 at 1:18 am
Looks like to me that once an assault takes place to a cop regardless of the reason (in that case, making attempts to communicate by getting a paper and a pen) automatically favors the cop. Doug bit and punched the cops as claimed (although he denied doing it) to the jury so it was all black and white.
It looks like that frustration was the reason for this to happen due to communication barriers. The cops must pay for failing to communicate with Doug. Had they communicated effectively with Doug in the first place, he would not be dealing with this.
I am really disgusted about this whole thing and this topic is staying me up late at night pondering about it. Justice must be done! NAD must be behind him. The media needs to be involved. This is a big time oppression blow to the deaf community. Maybe I should dress up as a police officer for Halloween since it is becoming a scariest costume lately!
September 15th, 2007 at 3:39 am
It is quite amusing to see you guys acting so shocked or bewildered by the whole thing — why? I knew the legal system was misplaced from the start. I knew he would be found guilty.
Why? The legal system is nearly 100% composed of whom? hearing people.
Mark my words — the sheriff department which investigated the violations — they will dismiss the allegations.
That’s hearing.
R-
September 15th, 2007 at 5:24 am
WHAT?!! I’m thoroughly shocked by this news and a guilty verdict!! I believe that the cops need some anger management themselves! Did they prove that Bahl bit him, was it shown in court? Look at Bahl’s face, he was not whipped, he was BEATEN UP, unnecessarily!! UnFUCKINGbelievable that this happened! I never heard of this: obstruction WITHOUT force…yet look at this…if it’s WITHOUT force, obviously, Bahl didn’t fight back, or am I mistaken? Gosh, I can’t believe this and Bahl definitely needs to appeal…and where’s the FUCKING police video, we need to see this, let it be shown around the world! Wished we can obtain the video and let it be seen by everyone! Bahl is deaf and to get pepper sprayed is way too much, I would have struggled, yelling in terror if that happened to me!! Pepper sprayed for what??!! “Guilty by obstruction WITHOUT force” Pepper sprayed usually happens to those who fight, Bahl didn’t. This isn’t making sense! BIG SIGHS!! I HOPE ACLU will get involved with NAD to help Doug Bahl!
September 15th, 2007 at 9:25 am
Where are the state associations on this one? Why the hell aren’t they stepping up to do something about this? They need to go out there and train the police officers on how to deal with the deaf.
We can’t just point to NAD and say, ‘HEY! Let’s have them take care of it!’
Why can’t WE take care of this problem? Why can’t WE go out there in the public and express our outrage, and explain to the public how to deal with us?
I think ALL of us need to speak up, and speak with ONE voice. NAD, the state associations, and us. And if NAD isn’t willing, then we can still go ahead and do it ourselves.
How about someone write a press release stating that the deaf community is outraged at this verdict and shows the need for police officers to be trained on how to deal with the deaf, and that we do not believe Bahl is guilty and he is the victim of audism?
September 15th, 2007 at 9:33 am
I agree with Deaf Pundit here.
This is… un-fucking-believable!
Can someone contact the “main” representative of the Deaf Community, where Bahl is from, and get support from the Deaf Community from within and all across the country (via online)?
The more visible we get, the louder it is for the media to take notice of us and pay attention.
September 15th, 2007 at 9:52 am
Hey Interpreters!!
an idea just came to me.. To attend the anger mangament class, obviously the interpreter is needed for his need and if the interpreter agrees that this verdict is unfair and suggest to charge the city, county or state 300 dollars or more an hour for interpreting work! thats one form of protest! OR boycott to force the system to backfire!
September 15th, 2007 at 10:29 am
[...] verdict is in in the Doug Bahl case. Elizabeth over at Mishka Zena has posted a brief entry about the verdict itself, which sparked reaction across the Deaf blogosphere. Ridor’s chimed [...]
September 15th, 2007 at 11:14 am
I can say from my own experience with the police officers and the station. It was the worst and even with deaf witnesses in my presence, they still do it.
There was an agreement settlement made by the Department of Justice for this deaf person who filed, but the officers at the station continued the same thing to me and then the next victim — the only black deaf of all three, who unfortunately was shot to death, a few months later.
His death is the reason why I took action and prevailed ALONE without Deaf community’s involvement or support. He died in vain and I was upset his own hearing family didn’t seem to take action. What I found to be disturbing is that the officers and station said in the newspaper, “Everything happened so fast that we couldn’t provide him an interpreter.” I cried when reading that and knew that was a lie. Why? Among other things I have dealt with them, I fought for an interpreter for 3 1/2 days and was still denied. My friends and I stayed at the station most of two days, protesting for an interpreter and will not leave, in order to file a report about a hearing suspect, who pointed a gun in my face.
At a different site, one officer wrote something to the effect, “Because you can read/write, you do not need an interpreter.” My deaf friends were with me and I calmly ripped off the note from the notepad what she wrote. Guess what happened next, we were on a chase with me going in my car as they tried to take that note out of my hands. While inside the car, the officers were suddenly nice and mouthed, “We’ll help you and get out of the car.” I shook my head no. She had the nerve of slamming on my car.
I wouldn’t have gotten lucky nor gotten far if not for this former NAD lawyer who transferred to this university as a Supervising Attorney. She filed ADA and civil rights violation on my behalf and notified Department of Justice.
While what I shared here is only a tip of the iceberg, but I’ve been eyeing on writing a book about it. Three deaf victims by the same police station within 4 or 5 years. Only if they stopped the first time there was an agreement settlement, this deaf African American guy’s life would not be cut short.
Here’s the surprise, it took place in Rochester, NY, where its city and community boasted to be the largest deaf community per capita. What a big joke!
September 15th, 2007 at 11:41 am
I forgot to add this.
The point is it’ll be a uphill battle with without much evidence such as notes, videotape, witnesses and the likes. Even if you have little evidence. It is not fair, but it is why the Deaf community as a whole must galvanize at a time like this to get their voice heard or we’ll continue to be exploited as an individual.
Those who don’t experience need to stop this attitude of, “It doesn’t involve me” because one day it’s going to happen to you and no one else in the Deaf community would bother to support. I hope that it applies to ANY deaf individual, whether or not they’re well known. It is what I find the implication to be bothersome and just because one is well known, it doesn’t mean others not well known in the Deaf community are not worth supporting. This is plainly wrong.
September 15th, 2007 at 11:42 am
OMG, Katherine! Here in Rochester? I am stunned! Now that is really scary when it is happening in your hometown. I have seen several training sessions in place with Rochester police department and thought this area have been improved. I haven’t experienced any problems with the Rochester police so fa so it seems to me it is a matter of random anywhere when you are faced with an obnoxious cop.
Deaf Pundit, you are right that the state association needs to be proactive but there are some state associations who are not even actively involved and that the leadership is not there. NAD has more resources and experiences than that State Associations when it comes to handling legal issues.
September 15th, 2007 at 11:50 am
We need to get control of our emotions whether the result of trial come unfairly for Doug Bahl.
The NAD usually do not get involved with the criminal cases among deaf people beyond their ability to provide resources for defendants. The NAD is mostly interested in civil cases which benefit deaf people at large.
Robert L. Mason (RLM)
September 15th, 2007 at 11:53 am
Barb, then it is up to US to take action. I agree about NAD, but why can’t we take back our state associations? I see so many deaf leaders here. Blogging and vlogging about this isn’t enough. We all have to get involved on the local level. Imagine what would happen if all of us got involved on the local level. The ripples from that would join others, and eventually cause huge waves.
I completely second Katherine. It’s time for us to step up.
September 15th, 2007 at 12:03 pm
Why did they charge him guilty? Now he is recorded as a criminal. What a joke.
September 15th, 2007 at 1:36 pm
Barb DiGi:
Well, the deaf community in Rochester, especially NTID/RIT knew about my situation, including the agreement settlement that was made and did nothing until the death of this deaf African American by the same police department. My situation was sandwiched between the first who filed with DOJ that prompted an agreement settlement and the death of the deaf black man by the same police station. I lost my respect for them for the life it has cost this deaf African American. Come on, we all know that African Americans have had a bad experience with cops and now throw deaf to it only makes matters worse. NTID/RIT and deaf community jumped in the publicity when there is a publicity surrounding this to make themselves look like they’re saviors. Oh please!
I was asked to be on the panel about deaf people and the police at NTID/RIT after what happened to this deaf African American. I couldn’t believe the hypocrisy of these people from the station and they happened to be the one I also had to deal with (I can’t count how many I have dealt with). They were surprised to see me on the panel and were being nice. It didn’t keep me from speaking out, disagreeing and I went as far as pointing out that it was not what happened.
RLM:
It is what baffles me about NAD. The NAD Legal repeatedly declined representation when I clearly have a case along with what happened to two other deaf victims. A serious violation of the agreement settlement plus civil rights violation. I was disappointed and sad. It took me a long time to find a lawyer after being turned down from one to another. It opened my eyes that MANY lawyers are ignorant and avoid paying interpreters so they turn down cases. I can’t tell you how many lawyers said I DO have a case. To hear NAD’s declination was a blow to my faith of NAD Legal. I would understand if my case is nothing but it is not and a serious one.
Now I read about NAD Legal representing 3 clients against the Redskins on having a specific caption. I really want to know how they prioritize things.
September 15th, 2007 at 1:42 pm
I want to say that the 4 days ordeal with the officers and their station, on top of dealing with a hearing suspet, was so awful that I sometimes felt I am better off dead than deal with this. It all started when I called 911 for help as a victim. I never dreamed or thought of this ever happening and will not wish it on any other deaf person, even my worst enemy. My experience will always stay with me and I don’t want to remember them but reading anything related to cops and deaf people, I have no control.
September 15th, 2007 at 2:50 pm
Don’t Forgot Rodney King when it happened in Los Angeles Riot and Polices beat up him then He won his lawsuit and what is going on? Deaf need to stand and confront with Polices and Hearing still don’t understand what does ASL mean and WE have right to prevent dicrimnate from Court!!
September 15th, 2007 at 3:02 pm
To Katherine:
I am located in the Rochester area and would like to meet with you in person to get your side of the story on paper, if you would like. Look up my email address on my blog: http://www.xanga.com/dianrez.
September 15th, 2007 at 3:30 pm
Diane, good idea. We all could get together for coffee and see what can be done for our local area. How about if you Diane write and I can get to vlog and perhaps for you to tell your side of the story? WE got to KNOW! I have never heard of this problem and I imagine not many do. The story needs to be told and confronted not forgotten. Please reach me at my website provided on my name link above.
September 15th, 2007 at 3:36 pm
This is Fucking un-fucking-believable!!!
I’ve known Doug from years ago, and he was always considered a wimp in my eyes, so its kinda hard to believe this man would get violent. Doug has always been worried abt what people will think of him….so again, this whole mess is fucking un-fucking-believeable!
Why isnt the MADC involved? why arent they doing a protest or at least some sort of gathering in front of the police station, the city hall, the courthouse, and in places that the majority of ‘hearies’ will see and listen. Even better, a movie on Doug Bahl and his whole experience. Get the movie out there, and get as many people aware of his situation.
Fucking un-fucking-believable!!!
September 15th, 2007 at 5:09 pm
Doug may look like a wimp but who knows he might be a monster inside.
Anywhow, next time when we are with the police they might shoot us first then ask later (that is if we are still alive at this point.)
September 15th, 2007 at 5:18 pm
When I filed lawsuit against Dept of Rehab in 90’s for discrimination, my attorney reviewed 8-10 binders that I kept everything together. He said in the eye of people my case is extremely strong but in the eye of jurors and courtroom…my case is weak. He wanted to be honest with me so I would not waste my $35,000-40,000 for legal fees. I was stunned although he agreed that I have all documentation and other materials that can be argued in courtroom. I asked him if I could get co workers to come as witness and testify in court for me and would that make my case stronger? My attorney smiled and warned me that many co workers usually avoid doing this due to fear of reprisal from the state. I asked him if I could talk to my co workers anyway and see what they would say about this. He agreed. As turned out, all co workers wanted to come to be my witness and testify for me. I was blessed that I had excellent rapport with them. My attorney took my case immediately. We never had to go to trial. The state and I reached settlement. What I am trying to say here is what happened to Doug is that perhaps in the eye of people his case is evident and strong but in the eye of courtroom it was not. He might did not have good attorney or enough of evidence to argue in case in spite of having black eyes etc. If there was a hidden camera and showed how cops beat him up then he would have won in courtroom without question ask. I did not see the trial but I wonder if his attorney requested consultants from NAD or other organization to explain to dumb hearing Judge how cops and public should communicate to Deaf people. I am not on cops or Judge side but I am trying to have perspective here.
September 15th, 2007 at 5:24 pm
Katherine,
I am sorry about it. I am interested in learning more about your ordeal. I reside in Rochester. I’ll email to Barb DiGi and Dianerez my email address.
September 15th, 2007 at 5:31 pm
This is nohing close to Rodney King. This man broke the law. Got pulled over bit and hit the officer. Then got pepper sprayed. It does not matter if he is deaf or not he could easily comunicate with the cop. Im sick of people fighting for there rights but when something goes wrong they blame their disability color or culture. No racial or ignorance played any part, except for maybe Bahl himself.
September 15th, 2007 at 5:38 pm
Read carefully, John Rad.
Bahl wasn’t guilty of felonious assault nor physical force. In other words, the jury declared him NOT GUILTY of hitting the officer’s arm and NOT GUILTY biting the officer. They didn’t believe the officer’s claims that he was assaulted Bahl. Therefore your argument is moot. Please stick with facts.
September 15th, 2007 at 5:58 pm
Do you know that bahl was offered a TTY phone on friday night, the FIRST night he spent in jail but turned it down….
September 15th, 2007 at 6:15 pm
This is sooooo FUCKED UP getting spray by pepper then you become blinded and DEAF and he has to get angry mangerment Thats bullshit If i get blind and deaf I would be very pissed off You have every rights to get MAD for what had happen. Lets hope he will sue the department for a cool million of dollars
September 15th, 2007 at 6:20 pm
to john rad,
after reading this article, “Officers Investigated in Jailing of Deaf Man,” again, I noticed it was from Sheriff that said that Bahl did not want the tty. Yet, Bahl’s attrony reported that Bahl asked for tty. So, it is obviously they said/ he said…
September 15th, 2007 at 6:21 pm
We will find out the details about his treatment during the four days confinement when his civil rights violations lawsuit comes out. As far as I know, he said he requested for a tty and an interpreter repeatedly, and never received these auxillary aids at all during the whole confinement.
Remember the officier claimed Bahl attacked and bit him. The jury didn’t buy his story. So far, what Bahl have stated turned out to be true. I am inclined to believe Bahl over the police.. especially when he had a family and fiance to think about. Think about this: Why would he decline a TTY, knowing that his fiance and children will be frantic with worry? Why would he decline a TTY, when it means an opportunity for him to get out on bail or his family/friends intervening and getting interpreters for him? Because he didn’t have access to a TTY, he was stuck in jail for four days. He declined a TTY? Yeah, who would believe that farfetched claim?
September 15th, 2007 at 6:29 pm
mz,
i hope Bahl’s case is strong enough after he is charged guilty.
deafk
September 15th, 2007 at 6:33 pm
DeafK, I think so. That offense is incredibly weak. If it comes out that the sole reason for this charge was his attempting to communicate.. yes, it may blow up at the police’s faces.. because his ADA rights were violated. He is guilty for practicing his freedom of speech. But that’s for a civil right attorney to decide.
September 15th, 2007 at 6:52 pm
Elizabeth in #84 writes: “”Remember the officier claimed Bahl attacked and bit him. The jury didn’t buy his story. So far, what Bahl have stated turned out to be true.”"
I do not for a moment buy that story either. I know Bahl. He is such a gentleman to bite anyone! Furthermore, he is not that stupid about law enforcement unless he was heavily drunk.
September 15th, 2007 at 7:18 pm
Hi Barb,
I hope you will do the vlog, so that deaf people
would watch and have a better understanding about what is being talked about Doug Bahl. Most deaf people prefer vlog to blog.
September 15th, 2007 at 7:35 pm
Elizabeth,
Is there a news link that you could provide us about the trial and outcome of Doug Bahl as I could not find anything on the internet. Thanks
September 16th, 2007 at 5:09 am
This is RIDICILIOUS!!!!! Because i know one of my classmates who was also killed by police in Illinios back in 1996.. There were two witnesses… They were their mother and grandma… they saw him and police everything for what happening right there!!! Police shot him to death!!!!!! SHIT!!! Grandma and mother tried to tell to police that he is DEAF, but police did not listen to them at all!!!! The Police were to focus on him… His name was Eric Smith and he was former Gallaudet student and also he was former deaflympic wrestling.. he won gold medal from deaflympic in 1993!!! that is very SAD!!!!
If you want to know the story about the incident… here is it…
1. http://www.cpsr.cs.uchicago.edu/countermedia/articles/9611.ericsmith.txt
His former classmate from elementary school, I believe.. who grew up with him.. how she felt about the police and she wrote the article about Eric Smith and some deaf people who were also killed by police. Read her article:
2. http://www.i711.com/my711.php?tab=2&article=66
See those police doesnt understand how to communicate with DEAF people … Police need to LEARN how to communicate with DEAF!!!!!!!!! Police HAVE NO right to kill deaf people!!!!! also we need to have AN INTERPRETER to communicate with police anytime because we have the RIGHT!!!!! ADA LAW????? ARE JUDGE, COURT, POLICE or whoever ignore the ADA LAW?????
September 17th, 2007 at 3:51 pm
Just wondering what would happen should the jury bbe full of white people in a case where the defendant is black? In other words, was there at least one deaf juror in this case where the defendant is deaf?
If not, then is it possible that there is a mistrial????
September 18th, 2007 at 2:05 pm
Move up State court and must hire specialist lawyer, ACLU, NAD as advisor demo use communicate with police officer by laws. It will good chance next trial.
September 19th, 2007 at 2:49 pm
Katherine,
You definitely have a GOOD POINT about how the NAD’s Legal Unit prioritize their caseloads.
You could see why the NAD get involved with the Washington Redskins stadium accessibility issue via captioning.
Shane Feldman is a former NAD employee himself. Is that the inside access to the NAD like former employee have such an advantage over other priorities?
The NAD board have to look into this matter. I personally know the NAD lawyers myself. Kinda awkward and sticky situation for me.
I am with you and other deaf Americans enraged at the travesty of the judical outcome within Bahl trial. I do UNDERSTAND your feelings and questions.
Sorry for delayed response which I have been overwhelmed with many things. I want to enjoy the sunny autumn weather.
Robert L. Mason (RLM)
September 19th, 2007 at 10:26 pm
I served on the jury for Mr. Bahl’s trial last week. As you may guess from my entry to this blog, it was a moving experience for me.
I have no doubt in our guilty verdict of Obstructing Legal Process. We deliberated for 2 days, so certainly we did not treat this case lightly. In the end it came down to Mr. Bahl’s testimony for me. When asked why he pulled his wrist away from Officer Bobrowski, he testified that he pulled it away to write. Although I feel that Mr. Bahl intended to communicate with the officer by writing (and therefore improving the situation), he also intended to do this on his terms. I firmly believe that police have the authority to control these situations in the way they see fit and that citizens that resist are breaking the law. The only way we can legally resist is in self defense. However, when Mr. Bahl was asked whether he felt that Officer Bobrowski intended to harm him, he responded no. Therefore, he cannot claim self defense in pulling away from the officer trying to restrain him. This is why I feel he was guilty.
That being said, I very much sympathize with him for what happened to him outside of the car. Certainly there was communication issues, and I think that Officer Bobrowski could have done a better job. I do not know who contacted who first, their testimonies contradicted each other, but the end result was very unfortunate. My thoughts are that police have at lot to learn from this situation. But I also believe death individuals have some responsibility when being pulled over; just like somebody who can hear, the first response is to produce your identification and insurance. Does not producing these items give the police the right to beat someone? Absolutely not!
After the trial I found out that Mr. Bahl had spent 4 days in jail without being allowed to contact his family. This is absolutely tragic, and if his claims are true I certainly hope he is successful in his civil trial.
One thing that was evident to myself, and to the rest of the jurors, is that Douglas Bahl is an extraordinary individual. Even by judging him guilty of this crime, that in no way takes away from his accomplishments as a leader and activist in the deaf community in my opinion.
From reading this blog it is quite obvious to me that there is a lot of concern for Mr. Bahl, as well as the current state of relations between police and deaf individuals. I hope my first hand description of the trial was helpful to you all.
Sincerely,
Eric Barsness
St. Paul, MN
September 19th, 2007 at 11:55 pm
Wow *rubbing my eyes* Kinda speechless here.
September 22nd, 2007 at 9:21 pm
[...] Douglas Bahl’s guilty verdict, Jane K. Fernandes’ quote : ” I am not Deaf enough”, and the irony of using Baby Signs for babies who can hear, but Deaf babies are taught with the auditory verbal approach only. [...]
September 22nd, 2007 at 11:11 pm
wwwwwhhhhhhhaaaaaatttttt ?? judge or jury dont believe bahls i suggest why not make a movie show drama what will deaf and police do on viedo so we can show them what is right or wrong and show example like police lack commucation and abuse the deaf make a movie so it will good show everyone make a picture that deaf is not Guily so for future jury and judge will understand Deaf culture will be better and ADA LAWS will involved with it because it will be good for them understand the right laws for example if there is wrong way if deaf got honest and judge said GULITY and Deaf got mad and thought if there is long time sentence it would be hungry strike to death in prison ” and closed their commucation with guard order them to sign langauge that police dont understand sign langauge if there is deaf out of mind as Deaf power beat their ass as hungry strike ” how will mangerment with deaf prison person with out of control with guard as full stubborn ” like gallaudet u is hungry strike wanna out of jane f make a picture like deaf prison ???? also it will show movie how commucaton with deaf people by deaf power lack of commucation how will work ???? sometime i heard my freind said i stay hungry until i win like mike tyson “boxer ” it will be very toughest laws also i heard one story one deaf person said if something happen to me like crimeral i will not follow the hearing laws due it weak laws i will follow my own deaf laws by my death ! that i dont care of hearing laws due fill up too many people in prison i rather death in our deaf laws dont follow the hearing laws is weak laws like give softheart and deaf laws is very strongheart to accept my punishment being our deafpower world. or if i became to homeless i walk to death toward to heaven no matter who am I being through happen life IS THAT POWERFUL ENOUGH FOR YOU BE STAND REALLY TALL DEAF STAND AND NO FEAR ???