In Fresno, Calif., on April 29, 11 year old Maribel Cuevas was being harassed by some schoolyard bullies throwing water balloons and rocks at her. She threw a rock back at one of them, and now faces charges of felony assault.
The rock hit 9 year old Elijah Vang in the head. When Cuevas saw he was bleeding and summoned help, police came in three patrol cars and a helicopter to arrest her, even though Vang admitted to starting the fight.
“She’s 11 … they’re treating her like she’s a violent parole offender,” said attorney Richard Beshwate, Jr., who is defending Cuevas.
News coverage is available from Associated Press.
So now defending yourself is a crime in this country? Your Stupid People of the Day are Fresno police chief Jerry Dyer, who said that officers were justified in charging Cuevas with a felony, and Fresno County assistant DA Bob Ellis, who is prosecuting the case, even though Vang’s family is not interested in pressing charges.
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http://www.FreeMaribel.org has contact information for those concerned and a petition with a sting in it’s tail. Help spread the word and let’s fight this stupidity!
Mike.