Cedar Rapids, IA - Former U.S. AG Janet Reno Expressing 'Absurdity' of Rubashkin Sentencing Recommendation |
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Former U.S. Attorney General Janet Reno (Clinton administration, 1993-2001).
Cedar Rapids, IA - Six former U.S. attorneys general and 17 other Justice Department veterans have signed a letter to the judge in the Sholom Rubashkin case, criticizing the prosecutors’ recommendation that Rubashkin receive life in prison for his bank fraud conviction. They note the “potential absurdity” in prosecutors using the federal sentencing guidelines to calculate a recommendation of life in prison for Rubashkin, noting the guidelines can produce sentencing ranges that are greater than necessary and “lack any common sentencing wisdom.”
“We cannot fathom how truly sound and sensible sentencing rules could call for a life sentence - or anything close to it - for Mr. Rubashkin, a 51-year-old, first-time, non-violent offender whose case involves many mitigating factors and whose personal history and extraordinary family circumstances suggest that a sentence of a modest number of years could and would be more than sufficient to serve any and all applicable sentencing purposes,” the letter said.
It is an unprecedented accumulation of support from across the political spectrum, including a wide range of views on legal philosophy and federal sentencing guidelines. The former Justice Department officials include an array of both Democratic and Republican appointees, including those who served in every administration from Lyndon B. Johnson through George W. Bush.
You can read the full letter with all signatures here PDF
The six former attorneys general to sign the letter are: Nicholas Katzenbach (Johnson administration, 1965-1966), Ramsey Clark (Johnson administration, 1967-1969); Edwin Meese III (Reagan administration, 1985-1988); Richard Thornburgh (Reagan and Bush administrations, 1988-1991); William Barr (Bush administration, 1991-1993) and Janet Reno (Clinton administration, 1993-2001).
Also signing the letter are former deputy attorneys general Jamie Gorelick (Clinton administration, 1994-1997) and Larry D. Thompson (George W. Bush administration, 2001-2003) and former solicitor general Seth Waxman (Clinton administration, 1997-2001). The letter and full list of signatories are attached.
In addition, Kenneth Starr, the former judge for the U.S. Court of Appeals, D.C. Circuit (1983-1989) and solicitor general (George H.W. Bush administration, 1989-1993) has announced his intention to sign the letter.
“To our knowledge, there is no empirical or other social science research to support the notion that life sentences or even long prison terms are necessary for, or even effective at, deterring white-collar offenses,” the letter continues.
The letter goes on to say that a sentence of life or decades in prison would be “inconsistent with the traditional purposes of punishment” and “would produce a gross disparity in treatment.” Such a severe sentence, the attorneys argue, “undermines the congressional goal of fairness and proportionality in federal sentencing.”
The letter has been sent to Hon. Linda Reade, the chief judge of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Iowa, who will announce Rubashkin’s sentence on April 29, 2010.
The Justice Department veterans have joined a growing chorus of political, legal and community leaders who have expressed dismay at the sentencing recommendation and the potential for Rubashkin to receive life in prison for his bank fraud conviction. In addition to the letter, other expressions of support have come from former federal Judge Paul Cassell, attorney Alan Dershowitz, former Rep. Bob Barr and numerous American Jewish organizations, including the Anti-Defamation League. And more than 30,000 people have signed an online petition arguing Rubashkin “has been singled out for cruel and unusual punishment and punished much more severely than anyone else.”
Rubashkin was convicted for his role as an executive with the Agriprocessors kosher meatpacking plant in Postville, Iowa. The sentencing recommendation submitted by prosecutors to the court earlier this month is inconsistent with the sentencing of other corporate executives convicted in comparable cases. The letter compares the Rubashkin case to that of Mark Turkcan, the president of First Bank Mortgage of St. Louis, who misapplied $35 million in loans, resulting in a loss of approximately $25 million. Turkcan was recently sentenced by a federal judge in Missouri to one year and one day in prison.
Prosecutors and the U.S. Probation Office have calculated the total offense committed by Rubashkin at level 45 under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, but the federal Sentencing Table caps at level 43. An offense level of 43 is punished with a life sentence under the sentencing guidelines.
Rubashkin’s attorneys have asked the court to impose a sentence no greater than 72 months, noting his positive history and character, his extraordinary family circumstances, and the arbitrary nature of the now-advisory guidelines used by prosecutors. They emphasize that Rubashkin’s conduct was not done for personal gain, that he did not intend any loss to the bank, and that a 72-month sentence would allow the Bureau of Prisons to place Rubashkin in a facility with experience in effectively and humanely incarcerating observant Jewish inmates.
Rubashkin was originally indicted for employing illegal immigrants, an offense that has been punished with probation or a short prison term. After seven superseding indictments and the court’s order separating the trials on immigration charges from the bank fraud charges, prosecutors chose to proceed to trial on the bank fraud charges so as to increase Rubashkin’s punishment. Interest was paid on all of the money drawn by the allegedly fraudulent loan, and the bank acknowledged that it received approximately $21 million in profit from the interest payments.
The bank loan was not paid in full because the government’s immigration raid on Agriprocessors caused the company to declare bankruptcy. The bank “called” the loan when Agriprocessors could not continue to make its payments. The May 2008 raid included military helicopters and more than 600 federal agents, and was widely criticized for the extreme tactics utilized by prosecutors and Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The raid destroyed the company and had disastrous lasting effects on the community of Postville and the kosher meat industry.
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Read Comments (120) — Post Yours »
1
Apr 27, 2010 at 12:13 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Hope he has much hatzlacha & may hashem give him & his family all the koach to overcome this
2
Apr 27, 2010 at 12:18 PM volunteer Says:Report as Inappropriate
Men & Women: Please say Tehillim today & tomorrow @1:00PM: Kapitlach 20, 51, 150. Further info for different gatherings worldwide @ COLLive.com
3
Apr 27, 2010 at 12:18 PM Esq. Says:Report as Inappropriate
Lets hope the efforts being made on his behalf are sucessful amen.
4
Apr 27, 2010 at 12:23 PM The truth is emerging Says:Report as Inappropriate
I think there has to be a full fledged inquiry into the hanky -panky by the govt against Sholom Rubashkin, starting with the mammoth raid.
Something smells fishy in Iowa - and I hope they get to the bottom of it. It is great to see that high ranking members such as Janet Reno speaking out.
The govt should be sued for defaming Mr.Rubashkins character with all their exaggerations and hyperbole. They should also be held accountable for preventing Mr Rubashkin from reorganizing his company after he declared bankruptcy, and causing the mayhem and the bank default.
5
Apr 27, 2010 at 12:25 PM Shaul in Monsey Says:Report as Inappropriate
Time served.
Problem is the defense asked for 6 years so me suggesting time served is as ridiculous as the govt asking for life.
6
Apr 27, 2010 at 12:38 PM DB Says:Report as Inappropriate
Yes! an additional glimmer of hope. Shalom you are in our thoughts.
7
Apr 27, 2010 at 12:40 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
It's interesting that all these qualified people believe that the prosecution is overreaching while so many frum posters on this site continuously bad mouth Rubashkin and those who call for a light sentence.
8
Apr 27, 2010 at 12:44 PM Godol HaDor Says:Report as Inappropriate
Happen to agree with S. In M. On this one.
I hope we will merit to see yad hashem on this one. This precious person, who I know personally, already went thru way too much. He doesn't deserve anything close to what he has already gone thru.
Hashem yerachem.
9
Apr 27, 2010 at 12:45 PM chana in London Says:Report as Inappropriate
Shaul in Monsey, Your heartwarming care and concern for a fellow Jew is touching.
10
Apr 27, 2010 at 12:46 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
wow, that speaks volumes!
11
Apr 27, 2010 at 12:46 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ I think there has to be a full fledged inquiry into the hanky -panky by the govt against Sholom Rubashkin, starting with the mammoth raid.
Something smells fishy in Iowa - and I hope they get to the bottom of it. It is great to see that high ranking members such as Janet Reno speaking out.
The govt should be sued for defaming Mr.Rubashkins character with all their exaggerations and hyperbole. They should also be held accountable for preventing Mr Rubashkin from reorganizing his company after he declared bankruptcy, and causing the mayhem and the bank default. ”
YOUR way will only antagonize, and you will inadvertently keep Reb Rubashkin in prison longer.
Let's hope that the prosecutors will read this letter carefully and follow the recommendations contained therein.
As for you, keep quiet.
12
Apr 27, 2010 at 12:47 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Time served.
Problem is the defense asked for 6 years so me suggesting time served is as ridiculous as the govt asking for life. ”
Interesting you sound like a real qualified person how come you never ended up being a prosecutor or Judge instead of Blog ... Every hour of the day
13
Apr 27, 2010 at 12:50 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Time served.
Problem is the defense asked for 6 years so me suggesting time served is as ridiculous as the govt asking for life. ”
No. The judge gets to give him whatever she wants. Time served is fine with me. A year and a day would seem reasonable, and giving him credit for time served.
14
Apr 27, 2010 at 01:01 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
I think with all the backing received he should already be due for a pardon by the president!!
15
Apr 27, 2010 at 01:09 PM charlie hall Says:Report as Inappropriate
Shalom Rubashkin is not the first person to be victimized by the sentencing guidelines or by overzealous prosecutors. We need liberal judges who will stop these abuses and we need Congress to enact more fair penalties.
16
Apr 27, 2010 at 01:13 PM Ani Hakuten Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ It's interesting that all these qualified people believe that the prosecution is overreaching while so many frum posters on this site continuously bad mouth Rubashkin and those who call for a light sentence. ”
I don't understand your surprise
to the goyim every yid is the same(Lubavitch litvish sefard etc) but unfortunetlly for some of the readers here just being a Lubav is a big crime.
17
Apr 27, 2010 at 01:17 PM CR Says:Report as Inappropriate
"The letter compares the Rubashkin case to that of Mark Turkcan, the president of First Bank Mortgage of St. Louis, who misapplied $35 million in loans, resulting in a loss of approximately $25 million. Turkcan was recently sentenced by a federal judge in Missouri to one year and one day in prison. "
This is disingenuous in the extreme. Mr. Turkan plead guilty to the charges against him. SMR pointedly refused to plea bargain despite recommendations from his attorney that he do so. Presiding judges do not appreciate being forced to go through an entire trial and will take that into account when passing sentence.
18
Apr 27, 2010 at 01:51 PM Monsey Man Says:Report as Inappropriate
No comment on the sentencing, but interesting to note how the yidden are now so happy to invoke the names of Ramsey Clark and Janet Reno....two of the biggest reshoim in modern American history; with Clark being a proactive and very public anti-Semite (unless you are NK, in which case he is only anti Zionist which I guess is okay by you)
19
Apr 27, 2010 at 01:48 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Judges should have someone over them so that they shouldn't have so much power, because as we see in this case it is clearly dangerous.
20
Apr 27, 2010 at 01:43 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Time served.
Problem is the defense asked for 6 years so me suggesting time served is as ridiculous as the govt asking for life. ”
Shaul in Monsey (or whatever your name and location really are):
I've been reading your statements, comments, and accusations on this Web site for the past two years.
I can tell you now, from my years of study of our Torah, that your plight is only now beginning.
Everything is recorded and the Judge of the Universe prosecutes!
21
Apr 27, 2010 at 01:24 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Hopefully, with this kind of support, the judge will reduce the sentence by a few years so SMR will not spend the rest of his life in prison but perhaps may be eligible for release in as little as 10 years. We should be mispaelel for such a lenient outcome.
22
Apr 27, 2010 at 01:24 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Time served.
Problem is the defense asked for 6 years so me suggesting time served is as ridiculous as the govt asking for life. ”
Whilst in practice you would be correct almost 100% of the time, don't forget that a judge is not bound by the submissions of either side,and is free, and indeed obliged, to pass the sentence which in her opinion is most appropriate, and in doing so she is entitled to reject the opinions of both sides.
23
Apr 27, 2010 at 01:36 PM Shaul in Monsey Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ No. The judge gets to give him whatever she wants. Time served is fine with me. A year and a day would seem reasonable, and giving him credit for time served. ”
No matter what the sentence is he will absolutely get credit for time served.
24
Apr 27, 2010 at 02:07 PM not Shaul in Monsey, just someone who is flummoxed Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Shaul in Monsey (or whatever your name and location really are):
I've been reading your statements, comments, and accusations on this Web site for the past two years.
I can tell you now, from my years of study of our Torah, that your plight is only now beginning.
Everything is recorded and the Judge of the Universe prosecutes! ”
What is wrong with what Shaul in Monsey said? He stated his opinion that he thinks the time Rubashkin served should be enough. Then he went on to say that the problem is that the defense asked for 6 years and rarely (if ever) will a judge give a sentence that's even less time than the defendant asks for. And then Shaul went on to say that because the judge never gives sentences for less than the defendant asks that his (Shaul's) saying that he thinks time served should be enough is never going to happen and is just as ridiculous as the prosecution asking for a life sentence -- which I would think most if not all of us here think would be a gross injustice to Mr. Rubashkin.
So now please inform me what Shaul in Monsey said was so terrible that you felt the need to give him dire warnings about his future.
25
Apr 27, 2010 at 02:32 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
We should all take note, and remember all the people who signed onto the letter.
Their future is on solid ground when they attempt to seek higher office and will undoubtedly receive strong jewish support.
26
Apr 27, 2010 at 02:43 PM Devorah Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Shaul in Monsey (or whatever your name and location really are):
I've been reading your statements, comments, and accusations on this Web site for the past two years.
I can tell you now, from my years of study of our Torah, that your plight is only now beginning.
Everything is recorded and the Judge of the Universe prosecutes! ”
Did you just try to curse Shaul in Monsey? I am Devorah in Monsey and feel the same way as Shaul does.
27
Apr 27, 2010 at 02:45 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
If you cant do the time dont do the crime.
28
Apr 27, 2010 at 02:49 PM Shaul in Monsey Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ We should all take note, and remember all the people who signed onto the letter.
Their future is on solid ground when they attempt to seek higher office and will undoubtedly receive strong jewish support. ”
Ramsey Clark defended Sadaam Hussein. I wouldn't vote for him if he was running for third grade class president.
29
Apr 27, 2010 at 02:56 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Tomorrow you will see that he will NOT be sentenced to life, but between 15-35 years with possibility of parole. Most judges never listen to DA sentencing demands. All of the hype is for naught. Rubashkin and his gang of smart alecs made a choice to play Russian Rullet with the federal government because they felt they were special, and lost the gamble. If he pleaded guilty, he would get less than 6 years with parole.
30
Apr 27, 2010 at 03:00 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Did you just try to curse Shaul in Monsey? I am Devorah in Monsey and feel the same way as Shaul does. ”
are you his wife....???
31
Apr 27, 2010 at 03:04 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ "The letter compares the Rubashkin case to that of Mark Turkcan, the president of First Bank Mortgage of St. Louis, who misapplied $35 million in loans, resulting in a loss of approximately $25 million. Turkcan was recently sentenced by a federal judge in Missouri to one year and one day in prison. "
This is disingenuous in the extreme. Mr. Turkan plead guilty to the charges against him. SMR pointedly refused to plea bargain despite recommendations from his attorney that he do so. Presiding judges do not appreciate being forced to go through an entire trial and will take that into account when passing sentence. ”
While you are right in what you are saying, he did not plead guilty like Tarkcan did, that is a good reason for him to be judged a bit harsher then Turkcan, it DOES NOT VALIDATE A LIFE SENTENCE.
And that is what the letter says (they dont ask for a year like turckcan, they are asking for no more then SIX year (and if 5 years in not enough for making a judge do her job and sit trough a trial, then we have a prob.
32
Apr 27, 2010 at 03:06 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ It's interesting that all these qualified people believe that the prosecution is overreaching while so many frum posters on this site continuously bad mouth Rubashkin and those who call for a light sentence. ”
There is a saying in yiddish: frimmer vee der poibst. Let's all have in mindSMR in our prayers , cause if SMR gets what's the prosecution wants him to get , hashem yeraichem on him, and ON ALL OF KLALL YISROEL ,if ANYONE is in any small infriction of the law ,, prison, prison , !!
33
Apr 27, 2010 at 03:07 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ No comment on the sentencing, but interesting to note how the yidden are now so happy to invoke the names of Ramsey Clark and Janet Reno....two of the biggest reshoim in modern American history; with Clark being a proactive and very public anti-Semite (unless you are NK, in which case he is only anti Zionist which I guess is okay by you) ”
Dear Monsey Man. We too in our business have been reading your comments over the time. Nearly every one of us (103) strongly urge you seek professional guidance very soon. Hatzlacha!
34
Apr 27, 2010 at 03:11 PM Gadolwannabe Says:Report as Inappropriate
It really goes to show how far Jews will go to save another Jew. Ramsey Clark is an anti-semite to the core, yet Rubashkin has no problem with the Devil making a plea on his behalf. More important than the amount of time that Rubashkin serves behind bars is the Chillul Hashem that he has caused. If he were Japanese, he would do the right thing and commit harikari. So too should Rubashkin. Instead of trying to pressure the sentencing Judge, he should stand up and say, "chatasi, ovisi, pashati" and take his medicine. I have yet to hear one word of remorse that has passed his lips. May he rot in prison as an example to all of us who think they are smarter and better than than everyone else.
35
Apr 27, 2010 at 03:11 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ If you cant do the time dont do the crime. ”
Keep this in mind for yourself constantly..
"When I'm accused, I will always plead guilty to all charges, and may nobody come to my defense!"
36
Apr 27, 2010 at 03:15 PM AH Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ No comment on the sentencing, but interesting to note how the yidden are now so happy to invoke the names of Ramsey Clark and Janet Reno....two of the biggest reshoim in modern American history; with Clark being a proactive and very public anti-Semite (unless you are NK, in which case he is only anti Zionist which I guess is okay by you) ”
Tell me: if you were drowning, G-d forbid, and one of these two people jumps into the water to save you, would you prefer to go under rather than see a rasha get credit for saving your life?
37
Apr 27, 2010 at 03:16 PM Kogan Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Hopefully, with this kind of support, the judge will reduce the sentence by a few years so SMR will not spend the rest of his life in prison but perhaps may be eligible for release in as little as 10 years. We should be mispaelel for such a lenient outcome. ”
“ Hopefully, with this kind of support, the judge will reduce the sentence by a few years so SMR will not spend the rest of his life in prison but perhaps may be eligible for release in as little as 10 years. We should be mispaelel for such a lenient outcome.”
There was a case in the Soviet prison where a lubavitcher chosid was detained for keeping and spreading Yidishkeit. (read the book called In the shadow of Kremlin).
This particular chosid was very hungry and begged Hashem for even just a piece of bread. As soon as he finished his heartfelt plee a cell window opened and a piece of bread was thrown in. He was thankful to Hashem for answering his prayers and disapointed at himself, that he only asked for a piece of bread.
Lets ask Hashem and pray and hope that he gets time served!!!
38
Apr 27, 2010 at 03:16 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Clearly, based on the statements of the Prosecuter and Justice Department, there is a politically organized attempt to destroy the Kosher Meat industry in the United States. The Bank that loaned Rabushkin the funds to finance his operations had made over 20 million dollars up to the day of the ICE raid and shutdown of the meat packing plant. There was no financial loss until Politicians destroyed Rabushkin's business and now his life. We must pray to the Almighty for mercy. Otherwise, I fear a return of the 1930's to the USA. Shockingly, it is obvious that many prestigous State and Federal Politicians and the Obama Federal Justice Department want to destroy the Jewish Community. It is clear. G-d help us.
39
Apr 27, 2010 at 03:21 PM Kogan Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ If you cant do the time dont do the crime. ”
“ If you cant do the time dont do the crime.”
Even if he did the crime does he need to get life in prison??? Is his crime really comparable to worst kind of murder???
40
Apr 27, 2010 at 03:27 PM concerned Says:Report as Inappropriate
Quick make the sentencing a lottery! Guess donate and guess correct sentence..better than madoff! As much as I want to see a minimal sentence, too many folks brush this off as anti-semitism. As much as SMR has paid enough, a lesson to be learned here in business ethics along with the tehillim.
41
Apr 27, 2010 at 03:36 PM exactly Says:Report as Inappropriate
#27...you are soooo on the mark
bad boys bad boys whatcha gonna do when they come for you
42
Apr 27, 2010 at 03:30 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ No matter what the sentence is he will absolutely get credit for time served. ”
no not cursing just pointing out the right thing
43
Apr 27, 2010 at 04:02 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ "The letter compares the Rubashkin case to that of Mark Turkcan, the president of First Bank Mortgage of St. Louis, who misapplied $35 million in loans, resulting in a loss of approximately $25 million. Turkcan was recently sentenced by a federal judge in Missouri to one year and one day in prison. "
This is disingenuous in the extreme. Mr. Turkan plead guilty to the charges against him. SMR pointedly refused to plea bargain despite recommendations from his attorney that he do so. Presiding judges do not appreciate being forced to go through an entire trial and will take that into account when passing sentence. ”
Pleading guilty would have resulted in a 15 yr sentence. At least now he stands a chance with all the pressure applied.
44
Apr 27, 2010 at 04:05 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ It really goes to show how far Jews will go to save another Jew. Ramsey Clark is an anti-semite to the core, yet Rubashkin has no problem with the Devil making a plea on his behalf. More important than the amount of time that Rubashkin serves behind bars is the Chillul Hashem that he has caused. If he were Japanese, he would do the right thing and commit harikari. So too should Rubashkin. Instead of trying to pressure the sentencing Judge, he should stand up and say, "chatasi, ovisi, pashati" and take his medicine. I have yet to hear one word of remorse that has passed his lips. May he rot in prison as an example to all of us who think they are smarter and better than than everyone else. ”
Remorse for what? He tried to make a living and so do those who enact these laws. Neither do they pay taxes and all their laws are configured to benefit the lobbies and unions. He did not steal from anyone, he just manipulated the numbers to receive a bigger loan and the bank knew about it as well.
45
Apr 27, 2010 at 04:12 PM Dave Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ “ If you cant do the time dont do the crime.”
Even if he did the crime does he need to get life in prison??? Is his crime really comparable to worst kind of murder??? ”
Is his crime worse than stealing cookies? Stealing shoes?
The notion that life sentences in America are only doled out to "the worst of the worst" is simply not true.
46
Apr 27, 2010 at 04:15 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Sholom Rubashkin has been found guilty of fraud. He applied for bank finance and"stated income to be so much and so much" He was found to have done so based on false representations. For this the prosecuters have asked to lock him up for life. If anyone listened to the hearing of Goldman Sachs today you would have heard from the Senate committee that Goldman Sachs officials should have known that these mortgages based on "stated income" are no good because they all were defaulted on and that mortgages based on "stated income were defaulted on almost always and were not true income. In other words millions of people in America stated their income and the banks were not verifying this and these mortgages were later defaulted on. Sholom Rubashkin did not default on his payments and made every single payment until they closed down his business with that raid. He did what a large part of Americans did. Should we lock up for life every American who stated his income and later was found to have misrepresented the numbers?
Sholom is an honorable man and we all wish him Hatzlocho and Brocho. Hashem should give him and his family koach to withstand this!
47
Apr 27, 2010 at 04:17 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ It really goes to show how far Jews will go to save another Jew. Ramsey Clark is an anti-semite to the core, yet Rubashkin has no problem with the Devil making a plea on his behalf. More important than the amount of time that Rubashkin serves behind bars is the Chillul Hashem that he has caused. If he were Japanese, he would do the right thing and commit harikari. So too should Rubashkin. Instead of trying to pressure the sentencing Judge, he should stand up and say, "chatasi, ovisi, pashati" and take his medicine. I have yet to hear one word of remorse that has passed his lips. May he rot in prison as an example to all of us who think they are smarter and better than than everyone else. ”
"Gadolwannabe"?? You've got a long, long way to go my friend.
48
Apr 27, 2010 at 04:20 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ "The letter compares the Rubashkin case to that of Mark Turkcan, the president of First Bank Mortgage of St. Louis, who misapplied $35 million in loans, resulting in a loss of approximately $25 million. Turkcan was recently sentenced by a federal judge in Missouri to one year and one day in prison. "
This is disingenuous in the extreme. Mr. Turkan plead guilty to the charges against him. SMR pointedly refused to plea bargain despite recommendations from his attorney that he do so. Presiding judges do not appreciate being forced to go through an entire trial and will take that into account when passing sentence. ”
If SMR would have been offered a plea bargain for 1 year and 1 day, he would've taken it. A plea bargain for 15 years is hardly a bargain.
49
Apr 27, 2010 at 04:28 PM Legal Eagle Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ "The letter compares the Rubashkin case to that of Mark Turkcan, the president of First Bank Mortgage of St. Louis, who misapplied $35 million in loans, resulting in a loss of approximately $25 million. Turkcan was recently sentenced by a federal judge in Missouri to one year and one day in prison. "
This is disingenuous in the extreme. Mr. Turkan plead guilty to the charges against him. SMR pointedly refused to plea bargain despite recommendations from his attorney that he do so. Presiding judges do not appreciate being forced to go through an entire trial and will take that into account when passing sentence. ”
While pleading guilty may be mitigating and earn a reduction of sentence, it does NOT follow that an accused exercising his Constitutional Right of due process by having a trial is an aggravating feature on sentencing. Every accused has a right to test the State's case and cannot be punished for doing so.
While remorse may mitigate severity of sentence, lack of remorse does not add to time to the sentencing range. It would be an error in law for a judge to penalize an accused for pleading "not guilty" and testing the evidence led against him. We are not obligated to confess to any accusations made by the State; we have a right to demand a trial and if later found guilty - not to be punished for having the trial.
50
Apr 27, 2010 at 04:29 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ What is wrong with what Shaul in Monsey said? He stated his opinion that he thinks the time Rubashkin served should be enough. Then he went on to say that the problem is that the defense asked for 6 years and rarely (if ever) will a judge give a sentence that's even less time than the defendant asks for. And then Shaul went on to say that because the judge never gives sentences for less than the defendant asks that his (Shaul's) saying that he thinks time served should be enough is never going to happen and is just as ridiculous as the prosecution asking for a life sentence -- which I would think most if not all of us here think would be a gross injustice to Mr. Rubashkin.
So now please inform me what Shaul in Monsey said was so terrible that you felt the need to give him dire warnings about his future. ”
If your not Shaul, you obviously have not been reading all his predictable and consistent criticisms of "you yidden!"
51
Apr 27, 2010 at 04:30 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Shalom Rubashkin is not the first person to be victimized by the sentencing guidelines or by overzealous prosecutors. We need liberal judges who will stop these abuses and we need Congress to enact more fair penalties. ”
It is a liberal judge who caused so much tzoris for SMR.
52
Apr 27, 2010 at 04:31 PM Charlie Hall Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ It really goes to show how far Jews will go to save another Jew. Ramsey Clark is an anti-semite to the core, yet Rubashkin has no problem with the Devil making a plea on his behalf. More important than the amount of time that Rubashkin serves behind bars is the Chillul Hashem that he has caused. If he were Japanese, he would do the right thing and commit harikari. So too should Rubashkin. Instead of trying to pressure the sentencing Judge, he should stand up and say, "chatasi, ovisi, pashati" and take his medicine. I have yet to hear one word of remorse that has passed his lips. May he rot in prison as an example to all of us who think they are smarter and better than than everyone else. ”
This is just a HORRIBLE comment! The proper thing for a Jew to do after he has erred is to atone for the error, not to commit suicide!!!
53
Apr 27, 2010 at 04:33 PM Charlie Hall Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ No comment on the sentencing, but interesting to note how the yidden are now so happy to invoke the names of Ramsey Clark and Janet Reno....two of the biggest reshoim in modern American history; with Clark being a proactive and very public anti-Semite (unless you are NK, in which case he is only anti Zionist which I guess is okay by you) ”
This comment is disgusting. Janet Reno does not deserve mention in the same sentence as Ramsey Clark.
54
Apr 27, 2010 at 04:34 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Did you just try to curse Shaul in Monsey? I am Devorah in Monsey and feel the same way as Shaul does. ”
Perfect - Shaul is in dire need of a shidduch! (surprise!)
55
Apr 27, 2010 at 04:35 PM Charlie Hall Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Sholom Rubashkin has been found guilty of fraud. He applied for bank finance and"stated income to be so much and so much" He was found to have done so based on false representations. For this the prosecuters have asked to lock him up for life. If anyone listened to the hearing of Goldman Sachs today you would have heard from the Senate committee that Goldman Sachs officials should have known that these mortgages based on "stated income" are no good because they all were defaulted on and that mortgages based on "stated income were defaulted on almost always and were not true income. In other words millions of people in America stated their income and the banks were not verifying this and these mortgages were later defaulted on. Sholom Rubashkin did not default on his payments and made every single payment until they closed down his business with that raid. He did what a large part of Americans did. Should we lock up for life every American who stated his income and later was found to have misrepresented the numbers?
Sholom is an honorable man and we all wish him Hatzlocho and Brocho. Hashem should give him and his family koach to withstand this! ”
My wife and I bought a house last year and stated our exact income. As do most Americans. And I am obligated to make payments even if the government were to close down my employer. (I also don't hire illegal immigrants that make me the target for an overzealous nativist Republican congressman or an overzealous prosecutor.)
56
Apr 27, 2010 at 04:37 PM Charlie Hall Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Judges should have someone over them so that they shouldn't have so much power, because as we see in this case it is clearly dangerous. ”
They do have someone over them: Appeals Courts. Unfortunately, Bush stacked them with Lock 'Em Up And Throw Away The Key judges -- with the support of most commenters here.
57
Apr 27, 2010 at 04:42 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ YOUR way will only antagonize, and you will inadvertently keep Reb Rubashkin in prison longer.
Let's hope that the prosecutors will read this letter carefully and follow the recommendations contained therein.
As for you, keep quiet. ”
or say tehillim
58
Apr 27, 2010 at 04:47 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ "Gadolwannabe"?? You've got a long, long way to go my friend. ”
"Gadolwannabe"?? You've got a long, long way to go my friend.”
Actually, he told the truth. More than more people I know.
59
Apr 27, 2010 at 04:53 PM deepthinker Says:Report as Inappropriate
Listen, all you dummies:
All the original immigration charges that destroyed his business and his ability to pay the bank were dropped.
So, now the prosecutor is asking for a life sentence, because he stiffed the bank.
What kind of baloney is this? He doesn't deserve even one day in jail--The prosecutor caused the whole problem, with his 600-man raid.
Let Rubashkin go home to his faily, and let the prosecutor go to jail for life for abusing the public trust and attempting to lynch a good man.
60
Apr 27, 2010 at 05:07 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ My wife and I bought a house last year and stated our exact income. As do most Americans. And I am obligated to make payments even if the government were to close down my employer. (I also don't hire illegal immigrants that make me the target for an overzealous nativist Republican congressman or an overzealous prosecutor.) ”
so lets lock up for life every single american who lost his job and is still obligated to pay his mortgage. We should also lock up for life every single person who employed an illegal alien and immigrant and for that matter an illegal monster and dinasour as well!!
61
Apr 27, 2010 at 05:40 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ "Gadolwannabe"?? You've got a long, long way to go my friend.”
Actually, he told the truth. More than more people I know. ”
Ahhh....this wannabe gadol's opinion that suicide is the right thing to do is now "the truth" about what is wrong and right.
62
Apr 27, 2010 at 06:11 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Hope he has much hatzlacha & may hashem give him & his family all the koach to overcome this ”
amen, we need rubashkin home!!
63
Apr 27, 2010 at 06:18 PM Yossi Says:Report as Inappropriate
Hope we dont have to wait for OBAMA to pardon him in Jan,2013....
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Apr 27, 2010 at 06:19 PM Shaul in Monsey Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Perfect - Shaul is in dire need of a shidduch! (surprise!) ”
Not unless polygamy became legal. Thanks anyway.
65
Apr 27, 2010 at 06:33 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Child labor law violations? 200-300 undocumented workers? Bank fraud? And the establishment lines up to support him.
The child labor law violations should be enough to get 10 years.
66
Apr 27, 2010 at 06:48 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Did you just try to curse Shaul in Monsey? I am Devorah in Monsey and feel the same way as Shaul does. ”
i guess the curse is on monsey
67
Apr 27, 2010 at 06:52 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Not unless polygamy became legal. Thanks anyway. ”
well then i guess your kids are in need for adoption at least that's what most of the commentates seem to think
68
Apr 27, 2010 at 07:16 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Listen, all you dummies:
All the original immigration charges that destroyed his business and his ability to pay the bank were dropped.
So, now the prosecutor is asking for a life sentence, because he stiffed the bank.
What kind of baloney is this? He doesn't deserve even one day in jail--The prosecutor caused the whole problem, with his 600-man raid.
Let Rubashkin go home to his faily, and let the prosecutor go to jail for life for abusing the public trust and attempting to lynch a good man. ”
GIT GEZUGT (well said) The ones who raided Agri should SIT IN JAIL!
69
Apr 27, 2010 at 07:18 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Why did they not listen to the munkatcher rebbe that told them to take a plea bargin for a few years tops 10 years?
70
Apr 27, 2010 at 01:06 PM shaul in monsey Says:Report as Inappropriate
Shaul your a first class shmock, my gut feeling is that you do not even come from jewish ancestry, your blind hate tewards Rubashkin is at a degree that most anti-semites would be scared from speaking in the public in the manner your doing. Don't try to hide behind that legal BS wall of yours and claim how nice of a guy you really are, just trying to help out Rubashkin, because we all remember good and well what line of logic you took by the Dwek case, a man who al pi halacha is allowed to be KILLED for his actions. Now Rubashkin who is not accused of stealing a penny, rather to falseley inflating income your synpathetic with idea of treeting him like a murderor.
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Apr 27, 2010 at 08:02 PM Shaul in Monsey Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ well then i guess your kids are in need for adoption at least that's what most of the commentates seem to think ”
Come one come all, I'll be there:
KINUS TEHILLIM tongiht at Ohr Somayach on behalf of Sholom Rubashkin
Hakhel in conjunction with Ohr Somayach
announce a major community-wide Kinus for men and women on behalf of
R' Sholem Mordechai ben Rivka Rubashkin
on Tuesday night, April 27th,
at Yeshiva Ohr Somayach the evening before his sentencing.
The Program is as follows:
Ma'ariv at 9:30PM, followed by divrei hisororus at 9:45PM from leading rabbanim of the Monsey communities.
There will be a second Ma’ariv at the conclusion of the Program at approximately 10:30PM.
72
Apr 27, 2010 at 08:05 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Tomorrow you will see that he will NOT be sentenced to life, but between 15-35 years with possibility of parole. Most judges never listen to DA sentencing demands. All of the hype is for naught. Rubashkin and his gang of smart alecs made a choice to play Russian Rullet with the federal government because they felt they were special, and lost the gamble. If he pleaded guilty, he would get less than 6 years with parole. ”
there is no parol in the federal system - period!
73
Apr 27, 2010 at 08:29 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Judges should have someone over them so that they shouldn't have so much power, because as we see in this case it is clearly dangerous. ”
Judges have someone over them. Their decisions can be reviewed by appellate courts.
74
Apr 27, 2010 at 08:40 PM Sigmond from Vienna Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ It really goes to show how far Jews will go to save another Jew. Ramsey Clark is an anti-semite to the core, yet Rubashkin has no problem with the Devil making a plea on his behalf. More important than the amount of time that Rubashkin serves behind bars is the Chillul Hashem that he has caused. If he were Japanese, he would do the right thing and commit harikari. So too should Rubashkin. Instead of trying to pressure the sentencing Judge, he should stand up and say, "chatasi, ovisi, pashati" and take his medicine. I have yet to hear one word of remorse that has passed his lips. May he rot in prison as an example to all of us who think they are smarter and better than than everyone else. ”
What a nasty little pipsqueek! You were probably toilet trained too young by an overly aggressive mother.
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Apr 27, 2010 at 08:54 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ GIT GEZUGT (well said) The ones who raided Agri should SIT IN JAIL! ”
Life sentence without parole for the CHURBAN they created and then maybe the government will be more careful in the way they act. Till now the govt thought they were above the law. Life sentence should give some people a chance to think about their actions.
76
Apr 27, 2010 at 09:02 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
To #27 and all the other reshoim on this blog,
One day you too will stand in front of a judge - the one true judge that judges all humans in the end. You will face a prosecutor a lot more powerful than any human prosecutor. Every little sin of yours will be revisited and counted. You will be shaking in your pants because you like all human beings sinned and you are not perfect. The great judge- the King of all Kings will listen carefully to the prosecution and the defense. He will then review your comments on numerous web sites & while you tremble in fear HE will issue his ruling -"IF YOU CAN'T DO THE TIME - DON'T DO THE CRIME! OFF TO HELL YOU GO!!"
77
Apr 27, 2010 at 09:34 PM wow! Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ It really goes to show how far Jews will go to save another Jew. Ramsey Clark is an anti-semite to the core, yet Rubashkin has no problem with the Devil making a plea on his behalf. More important than the amount of time that Rubashkin serves behind bars is the Chillul Hashem that he has caused. If he were Japanese, he would do the right thing and commit harikari. So too should Rubashkin. Instead of trying to pressure the sentencing Judge, he should stand up and say, "chatasi, ovisi, pashati" and take his medicine. I have yet to hear one word of remorse that has passed his lips. May he rot in prison as an example to all of us who think they are smarter and better than than everyone else. ”
God heard what you wrote I hope and pray that you get what you deserve as a self hating jew. YOU ARE A embarrassment to the jewish nation as a whole. For you to wish another jew to ROT in prison.. I only wish you miserable cancerous death that your children get to watch. Yes that's right years and year of suffering the same that you cursed another jew.
AMEN!
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Apr 27, 2010 at 10:11 PM Ahavas Yisroel Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ God heard what you wrote I hope and pray that you get what you deserve as a self hating jew. YOU ARE A embarrassment to the jewish nation as a whole. For you to wish another jew to ROT in prison.. I only wish you miserable cancerous death that your children get to watch. Yes that's right years and year of suffering the same that you cursed another jew.
AMEN! ”
On the eve of the sentencing lets unite in Ahavas Yisroel. Godolwannabe ,I love you. I hope you resolve all the trauma you must have had in your life.Just think positive. Better days are ahead.
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Apr 27, 2010 at 10:13 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ God heard what you wrote I hope and pray that you get what you deserve as a self hating jew. YOU ARE A embarrassment to the jewish nation as a whole. For you to wish another jew to ROT in prison.. I only wish you miserable cancerous death that your children get to watch. Yes that's right years and year of suffering the same that you cursed another jew.
AMEN! ”
Believe me that dog that wrote that about SMR is not a jew , he can't be, and. AMEN , AMEN,AMEN to the curse you bestowed on him.
80
Apr 27, 2010 at 10:14 PM Simanei Yisrael Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Tomorrow you will see that he will NOT be sentenced to life, but between 15-35 years with possibility of parole. Most judges never listen to DA sentencing demands. All of the hype is for naught. Rubashkin and his gang of smart alecs made a choice to play Russian Rullet with the federal government because they felt they were special, and lost the gamble. If he pleaded guilty, he would get less than 6 years with parole. ”
We all know the 3 Simanei Yisrael. The writer of #29 seems to be severly deficient in at least one. He needs to be more machmir than all of thes former AGs (DAs? what are you even talking about?).
81
Apr 27, 2010 at 10:17 PM Brochois Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ It really goes to show how far Jews will go to save another Jew. Ramsey Clark is an anti-semite to the core, yet Rubashkin has no problem with the Devil making a plea on his behalf. More important than the amount of time that Rubashkin serves behind bars is the Chillul Hashem that he has caused. If he were Japanese, he would do the right thing and commit harikari. So too should Rubashkin. Instead of trying to pressure the sentencing Judge, he should stand up and say, "chatasi, ovisi, pashati" and take his medicine. I have yet to hear one word of remorse that has passed his lips. May he rot in prison as an example to all of us who think they are smarter and better than than everyone else. ”
Dear Gadolwannebe, your heartfelt "brochois" might just be fulfilled by you yourself.
82
Apr 27, 2010 at 10:22 PM Obama on Record Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ To #27 and all the other reshoim on this blog,
One day you too will stand in front of a judge - the one true judge that judges all humans in the end. You will face a prosecutor a lot more powerful than any human prosecutor. Every little sin of yours will be revisited and counted. You will be shaking in your pants because you like all human beings sinned and you are not perfect. The great judge- the King of all Kings will listen carefully to the prosecution and the defense. He will then review your comments on numerous web sites & while you tremble in fear HE will issue his ruling -"IF YOU CAN'T DO THE TIME - DON'T DO THE CRIME! OFF TO HELL YOU GO!!" ”
Remember how Obama attacked Agri from the campaign trail?
Well, here is on video today saying "I am a pro-union guy". (not that we didn't know).
http://www.realclearpolitics.com/video/2010/04/27/obama_at_iowa_town_hall_im_a_pro-union_guy.html
83
Apr 27, 2010 at 10:23 PM MyThoughts Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ To #27 and all the other reshoim on this blog,
One day you too will stand in front of a judge - the one true judge that judges all humans in the end. You will face a prosecutor a lot more powerful than any human prosecutor. Every little sin of yours will be revisited and counted. You will be shaking in your pants because you like all human beings sinned and you are not perfect. The great judge- the King of all Kings will listen carefully to the prosecution and the defense. He will then review your comments on numerous web sites & while you tremble in fear HE will issue his ruling -"IF YOU CAN'T DO THE TIME - DON'T DO THE CRIME! OFF TO HELL YOU GO!!" ”
Very gut gezugt.
84
Apr 27, 2010 at 10:37 PM eva Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ No comment on the sentencing, but interesting to note how the yidden are now so happy to invoke the names of Ramsey Clark and Janet Reno....two of the biggest reshoim in modern American history; with Clark being a proactive and very public anti-Semite (unless you are NK, in which case he is only anti Zionist which I guess is okay by you) ”
There is a Yiddish saying:" Az men darf dem ganiff, shnaid men em arup fun boim."
85
Apr 27, 2010 at 11:09 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ It really goes to show how far Jews will go to save another Jew. Ramsey Clark is an anti-semite to the core, yet Rubashkin has no problem with the Devil making a plea on his behalf. More important than the amount of time that Rubashkin serves behind bars is the Chillul Hashem that he has caused. If he were Japanese, he would do the right thing and commit harikari. So too should Rubashkin. Instead of trying to pressure the sentencing Judge, he should stand up and say, "chatasi, ovisi, pashati" and take his medicine. I have yet to hear one word of remorse that has passed his lips. May he rot in prison as an example to all of us who think they are smarter and better than than everyone else. ”
WOW! You are definitely going to get it from the RBS"O!
86
Apr 28, 2010 at 12:09 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Child labor law violations? 200-300 undocumented workers? Bank fraud? And the establishment lines up to support him.
The child labor law violations should be enough to get 10 years. ”
If you don't want to support then don't support. What anyone else decides to do should be no concern of yours.
87
Apr 28, 2010 at 12:41 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Did Allen Dershowitz write those sentencing guidelines? (Or, who did?) If so, will he be in court tomorrow to explain how they are being mis-used, mis-interpreted and mis-understood? How can he be contacted immediately? That is the basis of the trial which we only want to be fair, and may the Almighty bring mercy, somehow. The PACKED kinus tehillim in Flatbush Agudah was so powerful tonight with the sincere Rabbi Mandel leading us in tehillim with his heartfelt crying and screaming (together with us) like it would be the Holy Days. And we want to CONTINUE tomorrow at 1pm where ever we are then. The ahavas yisroel from SINCERE Jews everywhere is astounding, and like it was meant to be and should be - from now on. Sholom Mordechai Halevi ben Rivkah united us in our prayers for him and his good family..and for Khal Yisroel!
88
Apr 28, 2010 at 01:05 AM berel Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ No comment on the sentencing, but interesting to note how the yidden are now so happy to invoke the names of Ramsey Clark and Janet Reno....two of the biggest reshoim in modern American history; with Clark being a proactive and very public anti-Semite (unless you are NK, in which case he is only anti Zionist which I guess is okay by you) ”
'az men darf de ganif nemt men eim arop fun de teliah'
89
Apr 28, 2010 at 01:54 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ My wife and I bought a house last year and stated our exact income. As do most Americans. And I am obligated to make payments even if the government were to close down my employer. (I also don't hire illegal immigrants that make me the target for an overzealous nativist Republican congressman or an overzealous prosecutor.) ”
Who cleans your house?
Who cuts ur lawn?
You might be obligated to pay but if ur employer cuts you off "ur not paying"
90
Apr 28, 2010 at 02:32 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ I don't understand your surprise
to the goyim every yid is the same(Lubavitch litvish sefard etc) but unfortunetlly for some of the readers here just being a Lubav is a big crime. ”
It seems with time you ARE becoming wiser.
91
Apr 28, 2010 at 02:43 AM SG Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ They do have someone over them: Appeals Courts. Unfortunately, Bush stacked them with Lock 'Em Up And Throw Away The Key judges -- with the support of most commenters here. ”
CHARLIE, this is all about Hussien Obama, not Bush.
Why do you think he is traveling IOWA today.
To get the payback from the UNIONS for initiating this action.
OOps I meant Hashem did, but that's who he thinks he is.
92
Apr 28, 2010 at 02:46 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Tomorrow you will see that he will NOT be sentenced to life, but between 15-35 years with possibility of parole. Most judges never listen to DA sentencing demands. All of the hype is for naught. Rubashkin and his gang of smart alecs made a choice to play Russian Rullet with the federal government because they felt they were special, and lost the gamble. If he pleaded guilty, he would get less than 6 years with parole. ”
Thank you, such Ahavas yisroel is just what he needs on the eve of his sentencing.
93
Apr 28, 2010 at 02:48 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Remember how Obama attacked Agri from the campaign trail?
Well, here is on video today saying "I am a pro-union guy". (not that we didn't know).
http://www.realclearpolitics.com/video/2010/04/27/obama_at_iowa_town_hall_im_a_pro-union_guy.html ”
Finally someone who understands.
He planted the seed,now the tree bears fruit.
He is going back for he trumah and meiser.
Think all of you WHO VOTED for him.
94
Apr 28, 2010 at 06:14 AM professor Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Shaul in Monsey (or whatever your name and location really are):
I've been reading your statements, comments, and accusations on this Web site for the past two years.
I can tell you now, from my years of study of our Torah, that your plight is only now beginning.
Everything is recorded and the Judge of the Universe prosecutes! ”
I think the blogger is actually saying he would love to see a judgment of time served, he just doesn't see it realistically happening.
95
Apr 28, 2010 at 06:42 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
I feel ashamed of those 'acheinu bais yisroel' who have the nerve to question the yichus of anyone who disagrees with them. This is not the ahavas yisroel that you are constantly preaching.
I am tired of comparing what he did to a person that pays someone to clean their house. He committed outright fraud. He had the same employees register under different names. The Feds found blank ID cards in his office. He built a business on cheap illegal workers. That was his problem. My problem is that He consciously made a decision to run his business that way, got caught, then all his problems started. There are 'frummer' yidden out there that condone lying, cheating, stealing and call me names if I don't agree that lying, cheating, stealing should be part of my credo.
There will never be achdus if you tell your children that stealing is OK, as long as you give some to tzedaka. I refuse to trust the Kashrus on anyone who goes out of his way to go against theChoshen Mishpat, while telling us that he is machmir on the Shulchan Aruch. This is a perversion of Yiddishkeit.
96
Apr 28, 2010 at 08:17 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ I feel ashamed of those 'acheinu bais yisroel' who have the nerve to question the yichus of anyone who disagrees with them. This is not the ahavas yisroel that you are constantly preaching.
I am tired of comparing what he did to a person that pays someone to clean their house. He committed outright fraud. He had the same employees register under different names. The Feds found blank ID cards in his office. He built a business on cheap illegal workers. That was his problem. My problem is that He consciously made a decision to run his business that way, got caught, then all his problems started. There are 'frummer' yidden out there that condone lying, cheating, stealing and call me names if I don't agree that lying, cheating, stealing should be part of my credo.
There will never be achdus if you tell your children that stealing is OK, as long as you give some to tzedaka. I refuse to trust the Kashrus on anyone who goes out of his way to go against theChoshen Mishpat, while telling us that he is machmir on the Shulchan Aruch. This is a perversion of Yiddishkeit. ”
There will never be achdus as long as people tell their kids not to eat other people's hechshairim because the haechsher does things to hurt achdus.
You are judging people (the hechsherim) by how you decided they judge other people (the company owners). That is very closed minded and judgmental.
You remind me of the guy who says 'I never speak lashon horah but here is a list of my neighbors who do'.
97
Apr 28, 2010 at 08:37 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Child labor law violations? 200-300 undocumented workers? Bank fraud? And the establishment lines up to support him.
The child labor law violations should be enough to get 10 years. ”
Uhm.... Update: he was not convicted on the child labor charges.
98
Apr 28, 2010 at 09:24 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ YOUR way will only antagonize, and you will inadvertently keep Reb Rubashkin in prison longer.
Let's hope that the prosecutors will read this letter carefully and follow the recommendations contained therein.
As for you, keep quiet. ”
I disagree. There are congressional hearings into the matter of inhumane and illegal treatment of the immigrants in the raid due to the over zealousness of both ICE agents and the prosecutors after Linda Reade herself signed the documents to put the raid in motion.
There should be congressional hearings into the inhumane and over zealous prosecution of Sholom Mordechai Rubashkin for the same reasons. Why should he be treated differently and have less concern than his employees? He gave them jobs and he was working with the Department of Justice to clear up immigration issues, after a hefty penalty, and then ICE swooped in without even clearing it with the DOJ! In all fairness every aspect of the RAID and consequences there of should be investigated by the Congressional hearings.
99
Apr 28, 2010 at 09:28 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ No. The judge gets to give him whatever she wants. Time served is fine with me. A year and a day would seem reasonable, and giving him credit for time served. ”
If Linda Reade does not take into account the recommendations and reactions of so many political and legal dignitaries such as form Attorney General Janice Reno then she might as well consider her political and judicial career over. As it is she does not have a fan club amongst the community of attorneys. If she sentences excessively the letter signed by all these very knowledgeable and experienced political representatives will weigh heavily in an appeal. To have on record that her judgement was overturned by the Supreme Court will be a true negative mark on her resume.
100
Apr 28, 2010 at 09:33 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ "The letter compares the Rubashkin case to that of Mark Turkcan, the president of First Bank Mortgage of St. Louis, who misapplied $35 million in loans, resulting in a loss of approximately $25 million. Turkcan was recently sentenced by a federal judge in Missouri to one year and one day in prison. "
This is disingenuous in the extreme. Mr. Turkan plead guilty to the charges against him. SMR pointedly refused to plea bargain despite recommendations from his attorney that he do so. Presiding judges do not appreciate being forced to go through an entire trial and will take that into account when passing sentence. ”
That is ridiculous, because SMR did not go for a plea bargain to admit guilt on 85 counts that he didn't commit, he should be jailed for life?????
It all boils down to falsifying invoices to secure a loan for which the bank testified that he was repaying. Had the government not intervened to destroy him, the bank would still be getting paid.
How can you possibly compare that to purposely misapplying $35 million in loans? That is far worse. Just because he cut a deal and plead guilty does not make his sentence wise or appropriate. HE should have been given a more serious sentence for admitting to purposely and with premeditation scam the bank.
101
Apr 28, 2010 at 09:36 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ If you cant do the time dont do the crime. ”
Well that is not the issue here is it?? The issue is WHAT is the appropriate time for the crime of falsifying invoices????
102
Apr 28, 2010 at 09:41 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Tomorrow you will see that he will NOT be sentenced to life, but between 15-35 years with possibility of parole. Most judges never listen to DA sentencing demands. All of the hype is for naught. Rubashkin and his gang of smart alecs made a choice to play Russian Rullet with the federal government because they felt they were special, and lost the gamble. If he pleaded guilty, he would get less than 6 years with parole. ”
But he is a man of honor and conviction and he could only plead guilty to what he is actually guilty of. He never premeditatedly plan on not paying bank the loan. In fact he was paying it, so why should he plead guilty that defaulted on the loan? It is the prosecutors that forced him into bankruptcy? Why should he admit that he aided and abetted when he was working with the DOJ to clear up the entire issue?
A man should only plead the truth and that is what he did. So for that I give him credit, for standing up for honesty and truth. Had he not, no one would know the rishus of ICE, the prosecutors and the judge. This case will be studied and reviewed by every Law student in the years to come, due to its unfair and biased nature. Especially if it goes to appeal and the Supreme Court overturns the verdict.
103
Apr 28, 2010 at 09:44 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ It really goes to show how far Jews will go to save another Jew. Ramsey Clark is an anti-semite to the core, yet Rubashkin has no problem with the Devil making a plea on his behalf. More important than the amount of time that Rubashkin serves behind bars is the Chillul Hashem that he has caused. If he were Japanese, he would do the right thing and commit harikari. So too should Rubashkin. Instead of trying to pressure the sentencing Judge, he should stand up and say, "chatasi, ovisi, pashati" and take his medicine. I have yet to hear one word of remorse that has passed his lips. May he rot in prison as an example to all of us who think they are smarter and better than than everyone else. ”
And YOU should have your head examined by a highly professional Psychiatrist and maybe neurologist as well. It needs to be scanned to see it there is a brain inside or just venom!!!
FYI, Rubashkin is not running this campaign and I highly doubt he knows every and all issues happening on a minute to minute basis. His family and friends are keeping a list of supporters and contributors to show him after he gets out, because he will want to thank them personally and do whatever he can to pay them back one way or another, monetarily or with chessed.
104
Apr 28, 2010 at 09:45 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Clearly, based on the statements of the Prosecuter and Justice Department, there is a politically organized attempt to destroy the Kosher Meat industry in the United States. The Bank that loaned Rabushkin the funds to finance his operations had made over 20 million dollars up to the day of the ICE raid and shutdown of the meat packing plant. There was no financial loss until Politicians destroyed Rabushkin's business and now his life. We must pray to the Almighty for mercy. Otherwise, I fear a return of the 1930's to the USA. Shockingly, it is obvious that many prestigous State and Federal Politicians and the Obama Federal Justice Department want to destroy the Jewish Community. It is clear. G-d help us. ”
When government officials are allowed to get away with such prejudice is there any wonder that there is a rise in anti-semitism on a daily basis?
105
Apr 28, 2010 at 09:48 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Quick make the sentencing a lottery! Guess donate and guess correct sentence..better than madoff! As much as I want to see a minimal sentence, too many folks brush this off as anti-semitism. As much as SMR has paid enough, a lesson to be learned here in business ethics along with the tehillim. ”
If you were to look at the ethical nature of this whole business, SMR would come out looking like a saint while the prosecutions would be wearing the horns and carrying the pitch forks.
106
Apr 28, 2010 at 09:52 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Remorse for what? He tried to make a living and so do those who enact these laws. Neither do they pay taxes and all their laws are configured to benefit the lobbies and unions. He did not steal from anyone, he just manipulated the numbers to receive a bigger loan and the bank knew about it as well. ”
Correct, so if the bank is not charged with conspiracy to enact fraud, then why should SMR get such a tough sentence? In addition, the bank did not initiate the fruad charges, it was the prosecution. The bank was very satisfied on making so much interest in this horrible economy where so many loans went up in smoke. So who did the government hurt here? Should we begin the count? Should we start with SMR or just include him. I know lets start with the entire city of Postville and their economy and ability to support themselves. Then lets add the children that were traumatized, the immigrants who were treated worse than murderers in a chain gang, the Church who are chasing their tails to provide as much food and shelter they possibly can, the Bank of course who lost millions, the cattle suppliers who lost millions, The kosher consumer who lost millions, need I go on?
107
Apr 28, 2010 at 09:53 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Is his crime worse than stealing cookies? Stealing shoes?
The notion that life sentences in America are only doled out to "the worst of the worst" is simply not true. ”
Please show me one instance where a thief who stole cookies is seating in jail for life? How ridiculous can you be?
108
Apr 28, 2010 at 09:56 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ "Gadolwannabe"?? You've got a long, long way to go my friend.”
Actually, he told the truth. More than more people I know. ”
I am so sorry for you that you don't know too many people.
109
Apr 28, 2010 at 10:09 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Child labor law violations? 200-300 undocumented workers? Bank fraud? And the establishment lines up to support him.
The child labor law violations should be enough to get 10 years. ”
Except that it was never proven and the entire immigration issue was supposedly dropped. Get with the program will you.
110
Apr 28, 2010 at 10:10 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Janet, call in the FBI.,, Maybe they can throw some smoke bombs, start a fire, and repeat Waco.
111
Apr 28, 2010 at 10:13 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Why did they not listen to the munkatcher rebbe that told them to take a plea bargin for a few years tops 10 years? ”
Because he also protects and advises the pedophiles in this community. Why should he be trusted to give the proper eitzha?
112
Apr 28, 2010 at 10:15 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Come one come all, I'll be there:
KINUS TEHILLIM tongiht at Ohr Somayach on behalf of Sholom Rubashkin
Hakhel in conjunction with Ohr Somayach
announce a major community-wide Kinus for men and women on behalf of
R' Sholem Mordechai ben Rivka Rubashkin
on Tuesday night, April 27th,
at Yeshiva Ohr Somayach the evening before his sentencing.
The Program is as follows:
Ma'ariv at 9:30PM, followed by divrei hisororus at 9:45PM from leading rabbanim of the Monsey communities.
There will be a second Ma’ariv at the conclusion of the Program at approximately 10:30PM. ”
You should you have a lot of teshuva to do.
113
Apr 28, 2010 at 10:16 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ God heard what you wrote I hope and pray that you get what you deserve as a self hating jew. YOU ARE A embarrassment to the jewish nation as a whole. For you to wish another jew to ROT in prison.. I only wish you miserable cancerous death that your children get to watch. Yes that's right years and year of suffering the same that you cursed another jew.
AMEN! ”
Shame on you? Why should his children suffer?
114
Apr 28, 2010 at 10:53 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ I feel ashamed of those 'acheinu bais yisroel' who have the nerve to question the yichus of anyone who disagrees with them. This is not the ahavas yisroel that you are constantly preaching.
I am tired of comparing what he did to a person that pays someone to clean their house. He committed outright fraud. He had the same employees register under different names. The Feds found blank ID cards in his office. He built a business on cheap illegal workers. That was his problem. My problem is that He consciously made a decision to run his business that way, got caught, then all his problems started. There are 'frummer' yidden out there that condone lying, cheating, stealing and call me names if I don't agree that lying, cheating, stealing should be part of my credo.
There will never be achdus if you tell your children that stealing is OK, as long as you give some to tzedaka. I refuse to trust the Kashrus on anyone who goes out of his way to go against theChoshen Mishpat, while telling us that he is machmir on the Shulchan Aruch. This is a perversion of Yiddishkeit. ”
YOU have your facts wrong. And yes hiring illegals in your own home, and not deducting taxes or giving them a 1090 is illegal and should pay the time if you committed this crime, just as you say SMR should.
Next, the illegal blank ID cards were not found in his office, they were found in Billimeyer's office. And he did not commit fraud hiring the same illegals with different names, that too was Billimeyer.
Your problem is that you don't study the facts nor follow the truth as it is laid out. You are way too harsh on your fellow Jew because of it. Please give this some thought.
115
Apr 28, 2010 at 10:54 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Uhm.... Update: he was not convicted on the child labor charges. ”
Nor were they or any other of the ridiculous charges proved or prosecuted.
116
Apr 28, 2010 at 11:21 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Correct, so if the bank is not charged with conspiracy to enact fraud, then why should SMR get such a tough sentence? In addition, the bank did not initiate the fruad charges, it was the prosecution. The bank was very satisfied on making so much interest in this horrible economy where so many loans went up in smoke. So who did the government hurt here? Should we begin the count? Should we start with SMR or just include him. I know lets start with the entire city of Postville and their economy and ability to support themselves. Then lets add the children that were traumatized, the immigrants who were treated worse than murderers in a chain gang, the Church who are chasing their tails to provide as much food and shelter they possibly can, the Bank of course who lost millions, the cattle suppliers who lost millions, The kosher consumer who lost millions, need I go on? ”
Thank you for your well spoken words!
117
Apr 28, 2010 at 06:21 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Tell me: if you were drowning, G-d forbid, and one of these two people jumps into the water to save you, would you prefer to go under rather than see a rasha get credit for saving your life? ”
I disagree with #18, but your comment is just logical common sense; well said.
118
Apr 28, 2010 at 08:06 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Judges should have someone over them so that they shouldn't have so much power, because as we see in this case it is clearly dangerous. ”
They do.
His name is Gd.
119
Apr 28, 2010 at 08:09 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ There is a saying in yiddish: frimmer vee der poibst. Let's all have in mindSMR in our prayers , cause if SMR gets what's the prosecution wants him to get , hashem yeraichem on him, and ON ALL OF KLALL YISROEL ,if ANYONE is in any small infriction of the law ,, prison, prison , !! ”
What's an "infriction"? Is there ANYONE on this site for whom English is NOT a second language?
120
Apr 29, 2010 at 12:15 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Clearly, based on the statements of the Prosecuter and Justice Department, there is a politically organized attempt to destroy the Kosher Meat industry in the United States. The Bank that loaned Rabushkin the funds to finance his operations had made over 20 million dollars up to the day of the ICE raid and shutdown of the meat packing plant. There was no financial loss until Politicians destroyed Rabushkin's business and now his life. We must pray to the Almighty for mercy. Otherwise, I fear a return of the 1930's to the USA. Shockingly, it is obvious that many prestigous State and Federal Politicians and the Obama Federal Justice Department want to destroy the Jewish Community. It is clear. G-d help us. ”
sounds more like the powerfull union than antisamitism