perfidy

A federal appeals court has ruled that the USDoJ acted correctly in detaining hundreds of people in the wake of September, 2001. Story here. 

I'm going to break with long-standing J2C tradition and not work myself into a frenzy over this decision. I still think it's a bad thing, just no more nefarious than any other of the hare-brained schemes we've seen recently. On one hand, the people detained (for the purposes of this decision) were illegal aliens, who were in the country, um, illegally. That needs checking out. But that fact must be balanced by two considerations: the DoJ's abysmal record of late regarding full disclosure, honesty, and moderation; and the fact that this is the USA and we don't treat people this way (that golden rule thingy). Here's the part that has always troubled me. 

A recent audit by the inspector general at the Justice Department found "significant problems" with the detentions, including allegations of physical abuse. Civil liberties groups have noted that only one of those detained, Zacarias Moussaoui, has been charged with any terrorism-related crime. Ashcroft told lawmakers earlier this month that some of the foreigners "had strong links to the terrorists," but that in some cases evidence was insufficient or too sensitive to bring criminal charges against them in public courts.

Everyone has a right to a lawyer, and everyone has a right to face the charges brought against them. No charges? No detention! Secret courts? While I understand and appreciate the need for discretion in dealing with potential international terrorists, no circumstances should mitigate due process out of existence. And what are these "strong ties" JA speaks of? If they are so strong, why have charges not been brought? 

Just asking. 

[moreover] Part of the reason I posted this was to elicit commentary. Mission accomplished!! In the 18 hours since I first read the story, I have come 179 degrees. Indefinite detentions are for tinpot dictators. We're supposed to be a forthright, just, honest nation and people. We're Rocky Balboa.