Judge sentences absent juror to serve as a warning to others

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BY BILL DOLAN
bdolan@nwitimes.com
219.662.5328 | Tuesday, August 12, 2008 | (93 comment(s))

CROWN POINT | A judge bent on instructing the public to fulfill jury obligations got his point across Monday morning with the reluctant help of a Cedar Lake man.

As part of his sentence for being a jury duty scofflaw, Michael Leibengood stood outside the Lake County Government Complex holding a sign saying, "I failed to appear for jury duty." It was a public lesson for prospective jurors entering the courthouse.

Lake Criminal Court Judge Thomas P. Stefaniak ordered Leibengood's public display of remorse last week after refusing to believe Leibengood failed to serve on a murder trial jury in late May because he had a flat tire.

Stefaniak couldn't be reached Monday for comment.

"No one is exempt from jury duty. Not even me," Chief Lake Superior Court Judge John Pera said Monday of the sentence.

Pera said he wasn't involved in the Leibengood case and couldn't comment on Stefaniak's decision, but judges have made jury duty as convenient and fair as possible because the courts need the public's help in dispensing justice.

Rich Cox, of Hobart, who was on jury call this week, said, "At first I didn't understand what was going on. I thought the guy was some kind of protester."

Cox said this was the second time in about three decades he has been summoned as a potential juror, and "I always wondered what would happen if you didn't go. Now I know."

Joe Giorgio, also of Hobart and another prospective juror, said, "I talked to him during a break. He told me he got off pretty easy."

Leibengood said Monday he had just gotten off his night shift at a steel mill to show up outside the courthouse front door from 7:30 to 9 a.m. -- a time when the people called into this week's criminal court jury pool had to appear.

He didn't appear upset and chatted with people who asked him what he was doing.

He said his mother made his sign for him.

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Dumb wrote on Aug 19, 2008 2:27 PM:

" They should make people that are getting unemployment checks do jury duty. "

ITS THE LAW wrote on Aug 19, 2008 1:01 PM:

" No....you are absolutely right! It's that easy to do, and I almost did the same thing. I don't know how they keep track, and frankly, it's the size of a card that advertises your local dry cleaner, so it's easy to do just that....throw it away!! I didn't throw mine away, because I never knew how well they keep track of stuff like this, and I really don't want to spend time in jail...not even one minute! But you are right in every way! IF THEY WANT US TO SHOW UP, THEY SHOULD ARRANGE TRANSPORTATION, AND SEND THOSE AS CERTIFIED LETTERS, NOT A STUPID POST CARD!! "

to ITS THE LAW wrote on Aug 19, 2008 8:56 AM:

" You wrote if we receive a card in the mail... Prove I ever got the card. They don't come by registered mail, I don't sign for them. As far as I'm concerned it will go straight into my trash can, thats what happened to the last one. I never got it! Problem solved. "

Rocket Scientist wrote on Aug 19, 2008 12:08 AM:

" If I receive a check from jury duty, how is it any of my employer's business anyway? If I am fortunate enough to have an employer willing to give me paid time off for jury duty, that's between me and my employer. As far as I can see, the court STILL owes me for the time spent there too. I'd cash it anyway, and they can just kiss my...... foot. "

I am like Lake County Politicians wrote on Aug 18, 2008 1:55 PM:

" I consider myself to be a fair and honest man. If summoned for jury duty I want the defense counsel to know up front that just like a couple of Lake County's judges, and all of the politicians, I too, can be bought. Otherwise, if the Defendant looks like a scumbag he's a goner. "

ITS THE LAW wrote on Aug 18, 2008 1:08 PM:

" Unfortunately, it's the law, and unless something is done to change that, if we receive a card in the mail, unless we have a good excuse, such as a language barrier, or medical condition, they force you to serve. I got called twice in 2 years, and both times, I never even spoke to an attorney. The second time I went, we all showed up. They took the first 20 people or so, (out of let's say 2 to 300 people there) and dismissed the rest of us, because there was only one case on the docket. Don't you think that was a waste? Most people made arrangements with babysitters (at the time, they didn't care if you couldnt afford babysitters), informed work, etc. Plus, after I received my measly check (I think it was 30 or 50, can't remember), I tore it up. I heard that we had to turn in the check to work so we don't get double paid. I tore mine up, for wasting my time! Jury duty is a waste of time. If they want me there, they need to come pick me up!! "

Cindy wrote on Aug 18, 2008 12:00 PM:

" I agree with Jury duty...we need it, however, it is a problem when you live on a tight budget and the money they pay you, is not as much as your regular job. You should have to provide proof of what you make and they should pay you accordingly. This way, so many people would try to get out of it. I agree, it's a complicated situation but the pay seems to be the biggest problems for most people. "

Darien wrote on Aug 18, 2008 8:42 AM:

" Like I said before, would you want the be judged by an apathetic juror?
A guy who might find you guilty because he,she is some smart a$$ who just wants to be ornery?
You certainly would want someone who has an interest in justice, not because he/she is forced to be a juror. "

RE Hmmmm wrote on Aug 17, 2008 11:46 PM:

" Isn't he though? "

Hmm wrote on Aug 17, 2008 7:10 PM:

" I'd sure like to meet the guy that had to do this because he's a very good looking guy and seems down to earth! I wouldn't mind getting to know him! "

Dear Tiffany wrote on Aug 17, 2008 5:20 PM:

" It's called being part of our society. Sometimes, you have to give up something (i.e. a couple of days of work) for the good of society. How many times have you actually been called for jury duty? It's not like they call you every year (or even every 5 years). It's more like once or twice a lifetime. I think you can certainly go and serve your community once or twice in you lifetime. "

RE unemployed juror. wrote on Aug 17, 2008 4:07 PM:

" Anyone who is of senior citizen status, or retired, is actually exemped from jury duty, if they so wish. I have a medical condition that sometimes I can't drive myself places due to chronic dizziness...I bet if I tried to get out of it if called, they would try and jail me too. They have another thing coming. Sometimes, people can't do certain things and the courts have to move on and pick someone else in their place. It's not fair to jail someone if they don't want to serve. To me, that means that a person who doesn't want to be there, and gets picked to serve on the jury panel, I don't see them issuing a fair and impartial sentence in the end. "

Schererville Resident wrote on Aug 17, 2008 3:25 PM:

" You're excused if your job is a doctor (which I understand, fully), an attorney, a cop, or in some form of government. Honestly, I got summoned twice to jury duty, never saw the inside of a courtroom, because I made it clear that I'm prejudice to how people look. If you look like a scumbag, more than likely you did the crime. And let's be honest here, a co-worker of mine told me that when it was time to decide, they all voted one way to get out of spending any more time in a courtroom. Imagie if it was your life on the line and jurors voted a certain way just to go home on time!! "

unemployed Juror wrote on Aug 16, 2008 9:35 PM:

" I say, let the people who are unemployed or retired get chosen first.
It's a little extra income for the retired. Yes, gas prices are high, but the unemployed could use a few extra bucks too... "

Jim wrote on Aug 16, 2008 10:24 AM:

" More arrogance from an empirical judge! What kind of juror will you have if they don't want to be there? It's utter nonsense and the judge should be reviewed for his competence! "

griffith resident wrote on Aug 15, 2008 9:04 PM:

" I would rather have a juror whos happy to be there, then one who has excuses why he dont. We are forced to be there, so that effects our thoughts & true opinions on the case. I do not think forcing anyone to be on jury duty gives anyone a fair trial. Just have them pay a fine/donation if they dont go. "

unwanted tumorous growth wrote on Aug 15, 2008 8:27 AM:

" You see? This is the problem with Obama and the other radical pro-abortionists. They see a 3D image of the baby girl or boy in the womb, sucking his or her thumb, experiencing pain, sleeping, waking...

and they call this child an "unwanted tumorous growth". How callous and inhumane...

and then they try to kill him or her.

But sometimes, the abortionists are not successful and the baby makes it out alive and starts crying. But Barry Obama said, "we can't let those babies live, that might be a slippery slope if we let them live outside the womb, next thing you know we might not be allowed to kill them inside the womb anymore".

So he spoke out forcefully against the Born Alive Infant Protection Act when he was a senator in Illinois.

I am fed up with the sanctimonious, self-righteous sermonizing of the radical pro-death left, whose religion is The State and Liberalism, and whose sacrament is abortion. This is not about you – stay out of the poor innocent baby boy or girl's life and let them live! "

Drater wrote on Aug 15, 2008 8:04 AM:

" I love the "judges arent exempt from jury duty either." I agree that they shouldn't be, but don't they just call in from the golf course and tell the secretery they will not be in? "

Okay wrote on Aug 15, 2008 7:18 AM:

" I read the article again and a lot of the comments. YOU GOT ME!! I still don't see the word "abortion" ANYWHERE... except for when Scarlet letter brought it up. So please tell me oh holy one where it is you are reading between the lines to see the subject of abortion in this article? Do I need some kind of special 3D glasses or something to see it?? Oh wait lemmie guess.. you saw big rude signs so you thought it was about abortion? Read much?

That's the problem with people like you. You'll find any reason you can to talk about this subject of controversy and again I will tell you to get a life!

You were obviously too lazy to read the article so I will break it down for you:

It's about a guy that skipped out on jury duty so now the judge is making him hold up a big gaudy sign(saying what he did) in front of the courthouse as punishment.

Crap! I think I may have made that too long for you... Maybe I should've put it on a sign.. then you might get it. "

nlb wrote on Aug 15, 2008 6:56 AM:

" Their's a price for freedom and justice. If you don't show up to do your every few years duty, you don't deserve to get a fair trial yourself. "

Too Late - Fixed wrote on Aug 14, 2008 10:49 PM:

" What I do with an unwanted tumorous growth in my body is none of your business. I am fed up with your sanctimonious, self-righteous sermonizing. This is not about you – stay out of my life! "

to to Scarlet Letter and everyone that agrees wrote on Aug 14, 2008 6:52 PM:

" This IS about abortion, and until you realize that, you should have to walk around all day carrying a sign that says:

"Deep down, in some still vital area of human knowledge within you, the place where you just know things, you have got to know that no political party primarily funded, supported and led by fierce pro-abortionists, by people whose great interest in life is seeing to it that the right to kill infants is retained, can long endure. Nothing can long stand on a foundation like that. Nothing."

I know it worries you when people point out your practice of killing unborn children, but that doesn't mean we should stop talking about it. How about child molesters and cop killers, should we stop talking about it because the offenders tell us to stop talking about their offense? "

OFFENDED wrote on Aug 14, 2008 5:10 PM:

" My Father passed away 3 years ago. He was an American Citizen. THIS YEAR we received a card for him to be a JUROR.

How offensive. I wonder how many people serve on Jury's who are NOT alive or even American Citizens for that matter. I wonder how these records are kept and how often are they updated. Seems like a mess to me. "

tiretrax wrote on Aug 14, 2008 3:34 PM:

" The pay is $20 a day plus mileage or $40 a day and mileage if you are selected to serve. The system forces no one to be there if they make it clear they do not want to serve. Being a good citizen requires doing your bit of public service not just what doesn't inconvenience you. "

to Scarlet Letter and everyone that agrees wrote on Aug 14, 2008 3:04 PM:

" FYI This article is NOT about abortion just in case you were too stupid to notice. Oh yea and exactly how many children have you adopted??? I sure hope a lot... cause if not, then you are nothing but a hypocrite... get a life! "

Jury Duty twice wrote on Aug 14, 2008 2:51 PM:

" I was called for jury duty when I had to go once a week for a month, and then called again the following year. I never saw he inside of a courtroom, but what a waste. I'm sorry, but I'm not going to look at the evidence to acquite some person that looks like a scumbag. I was paid I believe $30 for those days...less than what I made at work. From what I understand, I was supposed to turn that check into work, because I was not to get paid by both. I shredded my Jury Duty check. Totally worthless and a waste of my time. According to them, unless you're in the hospital or dead, you have no excuse. If you had kids, it was your problem to find a babysitter, even though they would not take into account that some people didn't have transportation or extra money to do so. And by the way, were were told to show up at 8:15 sharp, and the lawyers didn't show up until way after 10 AM. What a crock of you know what. So the jury makes a decision, but doesn't the judge have a say in the end? "

Rocket Scientist wrote on Aug 14, 2008 12:41 PM:

" Mr. Tiretrax, I understand and agree with you on that. (I was just kidding about the armor hot dog thing anyway) BUT, I think a lot of people have a good reason to refuse jury duty.

What the court pays a juror is NOTHING compared to what people lose when they must call off work to be there. Then there's the cost of fuel to get there, etc..

If they call on someone for jury duty, They should reimburse the juror for ALL lost wages and fuel costs. Why should someone be paid less than what their time and effort is worth? Some people cannot afford the loss of even $20 of a paycheck.

If they expect people to give up their time against their will to serve on a jury, they must compensate them fairly. How can you expect people NOT to be upset when they get one of those cards in the mail. All it means to them is lost pay and next to nothing in return from the courts. $30 a day is laughable... That should be hourly, not daily. "

never wrote on Aug 14, 2008 12:13 PM:

" I will never do jury duty. I do not want to live with the guilt of putting someone away or not putting someone away. I also do not trust lawyers because it's all about 'a plea' agreement even though the individual is guilty as sin!

If one does not want to be a juror then you should know what to say to not be chosen. "

LAW CLERK wrote on Aug 13, 2008 6:59 PM:

" we are not free. and YES there are better countries to live in. "

tiretrax wrote on Aug 13, 2008 6:14 PM:

" After reading these lame brained comments I would say this Country has maybe 25 years left before you morons are enslaved. There is no Free Ride in Freedom. God help us if we ever needed the draft back. What a bunch of worthless degenerates. You don't deserve to be free, you have no values and even less brains. "

Weird wrote on Aug 13, 2008 3:58 PM:

" I'm actually surprised reading some of these anti-jury duty comments. If I'm accused of a crime I would hope for a jury to decide my case. Why should the judge be paid less? He isn't in charge of the jury's "pay checks" any more than you or I am. It's our taxes paying for it--so I'm assuming that those who are upset about the fees being small are in favor of more taxes? If I were on trial, I'd want a jury of everyday people, not just those who WANT the duty.
But yes, if you are starving and unable to feed your family, it IS easy to get out of duty. When you're asked for your views on various issues just announce strong and vehement views... I assure you one side or the other will strike you. "

CSDYER wrote on Aug 13, 2008 2:25 PM:

" I SERVED ON A MURDER TRAIL IN CROWN POINT AND I THOUGHT I WOULD IT WOULD BE A NO BRAINER TO CONVICT. BUT AS YOU SIT AND LISTEN YOU UNDERSTAND THIS IS SOMEONES FREEDOM YOUR DECIDING AND YOU DO THE RIGHT THING BASED ON THE EVIDENCE. THE LAWS ARE REALLY THERE TO GIVE THE ACCUSED EVERY CHANCE TO GET AWAY WITH MURDER. IN THIS CASE WE CONVICTED TO 20 YEARS MAX OFFERED WAS 40. TOO BAD "

Glazed Ham wrote on Aug 13, 2008 12:05 PM:

" Who does Stefaniak think he is, Julie Cantrell? "

to dont get it wrote on Aug 13, 2008 11:53 AM:

" You really don't get it. Of course the government doesn't own you. But do you ever go to a public library? Did you send kids to public schools? Ever drive on a road?

More directly, if you were charged with a crime, would you want a jury of your peers?

We don't have the draft. Other than taxes, there really is no other responsibility like this that our country asks of us. Is serving on a jury really more than you can handle? That's not only selfish, it's un-American! "

I got your civic duty wrote on Aug 13, 2008 11:42 AM:

" right here judge stefaniak! "

Got Gas Money wrote on Aug 13, 2008 11:34 AM:

" I don't owe any duty to this county or this country. I say let the patriotic flag waivers waste there time for some sham that doesn't make a bit of difference.Especially in Lake county .I will let you good citizens spend your money to handle it! and if I was to get in trouble I would just hire one of their favorite Lawyers and SKATE while you chumps wasted a half tank of gas to think you were doing something. "

dont get it wrote on Aug 13, 2008 11:11 AM:

" citizen? civic duty? this community, state, country does not own me! I should not be under any obligations deemed my responisibilty because a bunch of strangers say so. would any of you do something just because I told you it was, according to me, your responisbility? "

SENIOR CITIZEN wrote on Aug 13, 2008 11:08 AM:

" JURY DUTY IS PAID AT A SMALL AMOUNT WHICH IS MUCH LESS THAN WHAT YOU MAKE AT WORK. WELL, ALL JUDGES SHOULD BE PAID THAT SAME SMALL AMOUNT!
JURORS SHOULD NOT BE JUST CHOSEN FROM PEOPLE WHO GOT A CARD IN THE MAIL. THEY SHOULD ALSO GO THROUGH A SEMINAR, FOR WHICH THEY ARE PAID FOR, IN ORDER TO LEARN HOW TO BE A JUROR. MANY CITIZENS CANNOT SPEAK ENGLISH PROPERLY AND DO NOT UNDERSTAND OUR LAWS.

THIS IS A FREE COUNTRY AND IF SOMEONE DOES NOT WANT TO SERVE, THEN THEY SHOULD NOT BE FORCED TO SERVE!

I BELIEVE THE JUDGE WAS WRONG. "

Big Kielbasa wrote on Aug 13, 2008 9:01 AM:

" Stupid people will wait outside in the dark for hours to get a glimpse of Johnny Depp but don't want to spend a day doing their civic duty. What have we become as a Country? "

It is our civic duty wrote on Aug 13, 2008 7:44 AM:

" Jury duty is our civic duty. A right to a jury trial of our peers is one of the things that makes this country great. Times are tight for most of us financially, but you people should still be ashamed for complaining like this.

And how did some of you make this about abortion or Obama? Please try to focus. "

Rocket Scientist wrote on Aug 12, 2008 11:55 PM:

" Oh, come on people! If you don't want to serve on a jury, getting out of it is easy! On the day you go for interviews, simply yell out "GIVE 'EM THE CHAIR!!!" and then proudly sing the armor hot dogs song. You'll be excused from jury duty before you even get to the second verse. "

To Scarlet Letter wrote on Aug 12, 2008 11:31 PM:

" How many unwanted babies did you adopt? I'm guessing...zero. Yeah, I thought so. Anyway, back on track of the real issue here. I think it's better Mr. Leibengood's time is wasted than taxpayers' dollars being wasted on him sitting in jail. If I were judge, I would have made him wear a sandwich board sign while mowing the grass or washing the county squad cars instead of standing around holding the sign. "

Sign for McCain wrote on Aug 12, 2008 10:14 PM:

" I'm a senile old man that can only be elected by attacking my opponent and spreading fear and hatred. Oh, and I've fallen and I can't get up. "

sign for Obama wrote on Aug 12, 2008 9:31 PM:

" Obama should carry a sign: "I was a political hack street activist, turned Senator for 143 days, accomplished nothing but now I want to lead the free world. Oh and I'm not sure America is such a great place..." "

to MMM wrote on Aug 12, 2008 9:29 PM:

" MMM, you should have to walk around all day carrying a sign that says:

"Deep down, in some still vital area of human knowledge within you, the place where you just know things, you have got to know that no political party primarily funded, supported and led by fierce pro-abortionists, by people whose great interest in life is seeing to it that the right to kill infants is retained, can long endure. Nothing can long stand on a foundation like that. Nothing." "

IRene wrote on Aug 12, 2008 5:17 PM:

" Jury duty for the most part is a front.
you are first told that one must weigh all the facts in the case. Then at the end of the trial you are told, what you can or can not consider.
That takes away any judgement you have. Once the decision is screened through all the "do-nots" It does not seem worth the days spent reaching any decision. "Why Show up ! "
you just reach the only decision ALLOWED within the given guiedlines.
Jurers are the screen the lawyers and judges wash their hands on.No wonder , many cases need to be tried again. "

MMM wrote on Aug 12, 2008 4:34 PM:

" How rediculous; how did this end up being about abortion? Stick to the subject people!!!!!!!!!!! "

Darien wrote on Aug 12, 2008 4:07 PM:

" The judge is a buffoon.
Why force a citizen to be a juror if his/her heart is not into it?
Would you want to be judged by someone who doesn't want to be there and may make a poor decision against you on that basis? "

no support wrote on Aug 12, 2008 3:49 PM:

" LOL This is great !!!! Now let them start doing this to women& men that owe back child support. LOL I bet they would start paying theN.. I love it keep up the good work.. "

JD wrote on Aug 12, 2008 3:36 PM:

" I remember getting called for jury duty and served 3 weeks for a murder trial. Did I want to do it? Not really, but it is what we are called to do as citizens. I'll never forget what the judge said to us - If you die, will your company collapse without you? No, the company will go on and you will be replaced. Everyone, guilty or not-guilty, deserve the right to a fair trial of their peers. They deserve that and so do you. "

Hammerhead wrote on Aug 12, 2008 3:18 PM:

" To all of you malcontents who think it is o.k. to skip jury duty because you miss work, consider this: you, or a loved one, may someday be charged with a crime. Do you really want a bunch of people eager to be a juror hearing the case? Or the elderly who may fall asleep or not hear the evidence being presented? Suck it up and do your civic duty. Finally, this guy lied to the Judge about the flat tire and he lied on his questionaire. He should have served 30 days in jail. Nuff said. "

Anti-Stefaniak... wrote on Aug 12, 2008 2:00 PM:

" If I was Mr. Leibengood I would appeal the ruling. Given the legal system is notorious for wasting people's time and money the appeal should come from Stefaniak's budget! "

Mad wrote on Aug 12, 2008 1:51 PM:

" An open choice of jurors would be fair but when you sit day after day waiting to be called and then when they call you the lawyers screen you with all kinds of questions that fit their needs for success in their pursuit and if they dont like you the lawyer talks with the judge about an excuse why you shouldnt be a juror THIS DONT SEEM FAIR TO ME Our legal system is a joke anyway! If you got money you will prevail!!!And judges are people too influenced by bias and politics etc etc A poor man gets no real justice Land of the free and home of the brave MORE LIKE LAND OF THE GREED AND HOME OF THE SLAVE!! iTS ALL ABOUT THE MONEY ASK ANY LAWYER OR JUDGE THEY KNOW!!! What a joke "

Draconian wrote on Aug 12, 2008 1:36 PM:

" Give the tax payers a break! The dude had a flat tire which is more than enough reason in my book.

Driving from Cedar Lake to Crown Point isn't exactly a walk in the park. (It's a long drive)

If the judge wanted to establish proper grounds for punishing the dude then Stefaniak should've asked for a receipt for the tire repair with a time stamp on it.

Besides...there are tons of people that show for jury duty. I am confident saying another juror could've easily replaced Mr. Leibengood.

Thank goodness I live in Chicago. "

Just do what I did wrote on Aug 12, 2008 1:24 PM:

" Call in dead. "

David from Gary wrote on Aug 12, 2008 11:52 AM:

" I got called up for jury duty once, and it was a week after going back to work, when I was out of work for 3 months. I missed the first week, but the second week, I showed up, & it got ugly that I was disqualified. I immediately told them I don't sit for long hours without falling asleep, and don't work well in a team. It's true. So I'm not allowed to serve on Lake County jury duty again. So if something like that happened to me, I would have been proud to hold up that sign.
As for the supposed $30 (it was $40 a day when I showed up in 2001); I was told that employers are supposed to pay for that person's wages. I don't know if my employer paid for my co-worker's wages, but some employers have different ways of paying workers. For most truck drivers, they only get paid when their truck is on the road delivering product. Other employers pay workers piece rate for stuff that needs assembling. Those are 2 cases where people don't get paid if they don't work. "

what wrote on Aug 12, 2008 11:49 AM:

" I can't believe some of you would say that jury duty is stupid, an inconvenience or a waste of time. If you have to be tried for a crime, would you really want ONE sole person, the judge, to decide your fate of guilt or innocence??? If you take juries away, you give even more power to one judge. Is that what you really want? "

government job security wrote on Aug 12, 2008 11:38 AM:

" this whole process is self-serving for the government actors: poor education begets criminals, criminals require police, police require the judge and lawyers, the judge requires the public to witness the play (and perhaps acquire there votes in the next ellection) and in the end, the judge will make up his own mind anyway, which will be to put the criminal back into the public so the entire cycle can begin again ... "

Good wrote on Aug 12, 2008 11:37 AM:

" I think what the judge did was an awesome thing. "

Dumb ruling wrote on Aug 12, 2008 11:35 AM:

" Who elected this guy God?? "

to To scarlet letter. wrote on Aug 12, 2008 11:35 AM:

" Maybe you should carry a sign, "I hate Christians and have a knee-jerk reaction whenever I see someone trying to take away my ability to kill innocent baby girls and boys in the womb".

I am not a Christian, but I am an American with common sense. I don't think it is right to snuff out innocent human life, for moral reasons. Also, I am against activist liberal judges making new laws and implementing their own personal beliefs in infanticide, by ignoring the US Constitution and making up new laws. They should stick to their role and let the people and the states decide such issues.

Why, you think Jesus would go around killing unborn children and condoning this and voting for people who condone it? "

Winfield Scott wrote on Aug 12, 2008 11:34 AM:

" Bottom line - if they want us to serve jury duty, then we should be reimbursed for whatever we'll miss in pay to serve. It should be my legal right to refuse jury duty on the basis of...
1. can't take the time off work
2. don't have childcare means
or any other LEGITIMATE reason as to why one cannot serve.

Having never been called for JD, I'm just speaking out on behalf of those I know that have, and how I'd feek if I were called. "

lolz wrote on Aug 12, 2008 11:26 AM:

" i'd stand outside w/a sign for a few hours before i'd ever serve jury duty. *takes notes* brilliant! *applause*

you want me to be a part of the legal system? then PAY ME LIKE I'M PART OF THE LEGAL SYSTEM!!! "

MPPS wrote on Aug 12, 2008 11:16 AM:

" Jury duty is one of the things we do that pays for our democracy. Shut your face, show up and do your duty. "

Citizen wrote on Aug 12, 2008 11:05 AM:

" You cannot demand all fo the rights of a free society without being willing to perform civic service in order to maintain the rights and privileges of that free society. Jury duty is a civic duty. Without it, we lose our right to be judged by our peers in a court of law. That is why this duty is so important. "

Why serve wrote on Aug 12, 2008 10:39 AM:

" Why would anyone willingly serve when they get no compensation. do we tell NIPSCO, "sorry I can't pay you, I missed work to serve on a jury"?

Then, if you find someone guilty of a criminal act, the judge will most likely give them a slap on the wrist and set them free. So, I take a pay cut I can't afford so that a weak, illy livered liberal judge can the the person free? I don't think so Stefaniak, you care to pay my bills? Didn't think so. "

To scarlet letter.... wrote on Aug 12, 2008 10:35 AM:

" Maybe you should hold a sign that says...As an extremist Christian I believe its my right to push my moral codes onto everyone else. I'm the person who wants to ensure you live by MY bible...not what you believe God wants you to live by. Obviously, being so much better then you people..God has chosen me to understand his will perfectly, and punish those whose don't listen...because this is what Jesus did in the new testiment and what he would do today (i'm being highly sarcastic, to those who couldn't figure it out). "

I think wrote on Aug 12, 2008 10:22 AM:

" I think the people who are choosing to do jury duty should be paid as if they went to work. If it's something we are mandated to do. "By law". I all so think ,"it is we the people who should want to help make the desion of conviction, the way we see fit."
We're soppose to sand as one not make a mocary of the people.... "

Working Class wrote on Aug 12, 2008 10:21 AM:

" People very easily forget jury duty is a DUTY - not just something they can "blow off" if they need the money from their "real" job. Really, who doesn't? Hardship and sacrifice are what this country's origins were based on so I think a day or two of jury duty is NOT too much to ask of anyone. Complaining just shows how WEAK the average American really is.... "

Merrillville man wrote on Aug 12, 2008 10:13 AM:

" I agree he should of gone...BUT..Is he getting his Jury-duty money for standing there??Glad I paid my taxes..cuz its going for a good cause,GIMME A BREAK "

Funny wrote on Aug 12, 2008 9:54 AM:

" I loved this! People have to be responsible for their actions and this was harmless. "

G Davis wrote on Aug 12, 2008 9:41 AM:

" You cannot blame the guy appear for what? To put added burden on the average person away from income for some pony show farce? That's all Lake County is. They think everybody owes them for living in a Sewer that Lake County is. I don't owe them NOTHING and refuse to participate in their sham fixed for the Money scams! I would rule everybody innocent! "

Aaron-Munster wrote on Aug 12, 2008 9:10 AM:

" This is why we let killers off the hook, stupid judges like this make stupid choices. "

Why not sentence him to.. wrote on Aug 12, 2008 9:09 AM:

" ..attend counseling and make him pay for the counseling himself. The money from the counseling can then be skimmed by Bobby Cantrell and... Oh sorry, I thought Judge Julie had this case, never mind. "

I agree with Scarlet Letter wrote on Aug 12, 2008 9:07 AM:

" The nazi baby killers just care about their own selfish needs or wants and ignore the feelings and the rights of the unborn. "

Way to go wrote on Aug 12, 2008 8:54 AM:

" Great job judge! You go! Taking a hour and half out of his day isnt hurting him none. He is lucky he didnt get jail time.Maybe he will take it more seriuosly next time.Dont pay no attention to the ones who complain.They are the same people that complain when murders get off but they cant seem to take some time to help out. Great work judge! "

Common Sense wrote on Aug 12, 2008 8:52 AM:

" So, you have him assigned again to serve or appear for service on another case. You don't have him hold up a sign, where he will learn nothing. Quit being so useless in your power-trip. How long did it take you to think up that punishment? Why don't you have the next guy sit in Time-Out...... "

tiffany wrote on Aug 12, 2008 8:46 AM:

" Jury duty is a joke, how does the govt think that it is fair to pull someone away from their job to serve as a juror and only pay them $30 for the day. That wont even pay for your gas there and back. If the govt would pay people exactly what they are losing from work when they serve as jurors, they wouldnt have so many people trying to get out of it. How would these judges like it if we pulled them from their jobs for 6months and only gave them a fourth of their pay. But to the person who wrote on Obama, that was a good one. "

Stefaniak and Bozo wrote on Aug 12, 2008 8:36 AM:

" The clown in the robes thinks he is god. Start paying for people's time to sit on a jury and maybe you'll get better jurors. "

to Scarlet Letter wrote on Aug 12, 2008 8:35 AM:

" Get off your soapbox and quit preaching. Judge not lest ye be judged. "

To Scarlett Letter wrote on Aug 12, 2008 8:35 AM:

" Perhaps you should carry a sign that reads "I am trying to exercise a non-existent right to prevent millions of women from making decisions about their own bodies. I am doing this because I believe that I am a morally superior person and anyone who does not agree with me should go to hell." "

I agree with Daniel K wrote on Aug 12, 2008 8:16 AM:

" "after refusing to believe Leibengood failed to serve on a murder trial jury in late May because he had a flat tire." - Where's the burden of proof? Just because the Judge thinks Leibengood lied dosen't give him the right to do what he wants. "

VALPO RESIDENT wrote on Aug 12, 2008 7:58 AM:

" THE COURTS ARE OURS AND THE JUDGES THINKS ITS THEIRS,WHAT A JOKE "

Working Class Penalized wrote on Aug 12, 2008 7:58 AM:

" What about the WORKING CLASS that have to take off work to do as they say "Fulfill" their duty?? Who is going to pay that working mans salary that they are losing to fulfill such a duty? You know $20 or $30 dollars a day doesn't cover the bills and that is ALL you get to "FULFILL" your duty. I say get the retired and housewives that can use the sum of $20-$30 a day for pocket money and let the working class actually not get penalized for someone else's issues that they are in court for. "

Obamas sign wrote on Aug 12, 2008 7:51 AM:

" Obama should be made to walk around with a sign "I think $10 a gallon gas is good for America, no drilling, just higher prices and more dependence!"

On the back it should say "I am the new Neville Chamberlain, I will appease the world's tyrants and dictators!" "

Thats it wrote on Aug 12, 2008 7:40 AM:

" It is time to make people in public office and or positions such as this judge to start paying a huge price for there bad decisions. This is not a one way street Stefaniak! "

lmn wrote on Aug 12, 2008 7:35 AM:

" Great idea judge!!!!! We need more judges to stand up for what is right! "

To Daniel wrote on Aug 12, 2008 7:33 AM:

" Give me a break, you say the judge has too much power and was wrong? How is this not fair? Liebengood even commented that he got off light. His mother even made his sign and he only had to stand there for an hour and an half. Someone has to make sure people fulfill jury duty committments, and that someone is a judge. No cares if they pay a fine, maybe if people are afraid of looking like a fool, they will take their civic duty a bit more seriously. "

No way Daniel wrote on Aug 12, 2008 7:24 AM:

" The punishment should fit the crime. This is perfect. More of this type of thing should be done - taggers washing walls, speeders having their cars taken away and being made to walk with signs explaining why they're on the ankle express. Public shame and humiliation - a great deterrent - way to go Judge Stefaniak! "

waste of time wrote on Aug 12, 2008 7:19 AM:

" jury duty is nothing more than 'take your public to work day' so the judges and lawyers can perform in front of a captive audience. it's like dinner theatre, but with bad actors. "

Scarlet Letter wrote on Aug 12, 2008 7:11 AM:

" I think the liberal judges on the Supreme Court should be made to walk around in front of the court with a sign, "I found a non-existent "right to abort baby girls and boys" in the US Constitution and I am responsible for 40 million deaths since 1972".
Ruth Bader Ginsgburg should have to hold a sign "I think the US Constitution is an impediment to my racial socialist agenda!" "

Funny wrote on Aug 12, 2008 5:44 AM:

" REALY! This is stupid. I get the courts need are help but maybe he is not the person the court wants. And just maybe he did have a flat tire or maybe people need to work and get the money they need.I think some people are not cut out to do this. Do you think this hurt him NO NO. He made it a joke the way i see it. WASTE of time judge. "

daniel kmak wrote on Aug 12, 2008 4:22 AM:

" I think this Judge should be told to do smething stupid. Judges have and show too much power. They do not do things fair and this just shows it. The man was wrong for not showing up but the judge was wrong also. "

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