Let’s be civil. The Flathead Beacon encourages vigorous discussion and lively debate, but we will delete comments that attack other readers, make accusations we can’t verify, stray too far off topic, criticize local businesses (call them if you have a problem), convict someone of a crime, use profanity or are simply judged to be in bad taste. We don’t always have someone moderating comments, so we ask for your help: If you see a comment that violates these ground rules, or you simply deem it offensive, please e-mail editor [at] flatheadbeacon.com. The views expressed in the comments section do not reflect those of the Beacon.
By Firebeam on 10-26-09
A “not guilty” plea just doesn’t carry a lot of weight when the accused is sporting a broken pelvis from the crimes he’s accused of. Kinda like denying that your stealing cookies when your hand is stuck in the cookie jar.
Sure would be nice if a politician ever did the right thing instead of trying to wiggle out.
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By treasurestate on 10-26-09
hmmm.. Senator Barkus seems to be in an alcoholic denial. Lots of people who abuse alcohol….drink before they go to an event. Sounds to me like that’s what he did, hence the the high blood alcohol level, despite purchasing only a couple of drinks. (I understand there was also wine at the table that everyone was sharing. ) I hope the Senator can first become honest with himself…and then with us as constituents.
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By TeeAitch on 10-26-09
Let’s not forget that “not guilty” means that the accused is saying that the prosecution cannot prove him guilty beyond reasonable doubt. When an accused so pleads, he is not necessarily saying, “I didn’t do it,“ he’s really saying, “You can’t prove it.“ Also, a not guilty plea is pretty much de rigueur at this stage of the proceeding, often to allow time for further investigations and possible plea agreements.
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By Firebeam on 10-26-09
TeeAitch: You’re correct. This wasn’t unexpected—-afterall, what attorney with an ounce more sense than Barkus would advise anything that would preclude further fee revenue (job security). Perhaps a plea arrangement will include rehab, BAC interlock devices on the senator’s vehicles (including boats), and his resignation from public office. Not that he really has any chance of re-election following this mess. I wonder if there are any civil suits in the wings?? Friends or not, this politician won’t be pulling strings for his friends much longer anyway and he’ll no doubt use up all his favors getting out of this. The picture doess seem to capture some genuine fear, or at least worry, on the senator’s face.
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Comments on: Barkus Pleads Not Guilty on All Charges
Let’s be civil. The Flathead Beacon encourages vigorous discussion and lively debate, but we will delete comments that attack other readers, make accusations we can’t verify, stray too far off topic, criticize local businesses (call them if you have a problem), convict someone of a crime, use profanity or are simply judged to be in bad taste. We don’t always have someone moderating comments, so we ask for your help: If you see a comment that violates these ground rules, or you simply deem it offensive, please e-mail editor [at] flatheadbeacon.com. The views expressed in the comments section do not reflect those of the Beacon.
By Firebeam on 10-26-09
A “not guilty” plea just doesn’t carry a lot of weight when the accused is sporting a broken pelvis from the crimes he’s accused of. Kinda like denying that your stealing cookies when your hand is stuck in the cookie jar.
Sure would be nice if a politician ever did the right thing instead of trying to wiggle out.
By treasurestate on 10-26-09
hmmm.. Senator Barkus seems to be in an alcoholic denial. Lots of people who abuse alcohol….drink before they go to an event. Sounds to me like that’s what he did, hence the the high blood alcohol level, despite purchasing only a couple of drinks. (I understand there was also wine at the table that everyone was sharing. ) I hope the Senator can first become honest with himself…and then with us as constituents.
By TeeAitch on 10-26-09
Let’s not forget that “not guilty” means that the accused is saying that the prosecution cannot prove him guilty beyond reasonable doubt. When an accused so pleads, he is not necessarily saying, “I didn’t do it,“ he’s really saying, “You can’t prove it.“ Also, a not guilty plea is pretty much de rigueur at this stage of the proceeding, often to allow time for further investigations and possible plea agreements.
By Firebeam on 10-26-09
TeeAitch: You’re correct. This wasn’t unexpected—-afterall, what attorney with an ounce more sense than Barkus would advise anything that would preclude further fee revenue (job security). Perhaps a plea arrangement will include rehab, BAC interlock devices on the senator’s vehicles (including boats), and his resignation from public office. Not that he really has any chance of re-election following this mess. I wonder if there are any civil suits in the wings?? Friends or not, this politician won’t be pulling strings for his friends much longer anyway and he’ll no doubt use up all his favors getting out of this. The picture doess seem to capture some genuine fear, or at least worry, on the senator’s face.