Attorney Addresses LEMAR

At a 9 March meeting of Detroit LEMAR (Legalize Marijuana) Attorney William Segesta spoke to a mixed group of interested hippies, students and a middle-aged stenographer. Segesta discussed the validities and abuses of “Search-and-Seizure” statutes as interpreted by police and law enforcement agencies. Segesta outlined the two main types of arrests, the legal and illegal, describing what to do until the lawyer comes and basic constitutional rights that most citizens were unaware of, such as your right not to speak when arrested, not to sign papers and demand an attorney.

“Ascertain precisely whether you are being placed under arrest,” Segesta said, “but remember that you may not be searched unless the officer distinctly says: ‘You are under arrest.’”

Naturally this comment evoked much response, though it was pointed out that if you are arrested after the search has taken place the incriminating evidence supposedly found on your person may not be used for admission in a court of law. This statement was greeted by guffaws of laughter and warnings to be cautious of dark alleys.

“Basically,” said Segesta, “unreasonable and unconstitutional stop and search is still available to the police.”