The Oregonian has an article in today’s paper telling the story of a pet owner whose cat became sick from eating lilies purchased from a grocery store. The pet owner filed a lawsuit alleging that the grocery store and its floral distributor had a duty to disclose to consumers that the plant is toxic to animals. The plaintiff is seeking compensation for the vet bills and an agreement that the companies will label lilies as dangerous for cat consumption.

I suppose that a person’s opinion of this matter depends on whether the person knew that lilies were bad for cats in the first place.

A federal court in Wisconsin has ruled that the government may install security video cameras on private property and use that evidence in criminal proceedings. In U.S. v. Marco Magana, the defendant’s motion to suppress evidence was denied by the district court. In the case, DEA agents entered rural private property and installed cameras that recorded activity on that property. The evidence collected by the cameras led to a search warrant, arrests, and convictions. The court ruled that the DEA’s actions were permissible in spite of the undisputed fact that the property’s perimeter was posted with signs declaring “No Trespassing” and “Private Property.” The defendants intend to appeal to the Seventh Circuit Court.

Somebody get this dog a lawyer!

Portland Public Schools recently distributed comic books to all students within the system, including elementary students. Who knows what is on the first 23 pages, but the 24th page and back cover is this, a rather threatening and graphic explanation of Measure 11 charges and punishments. Really? Since the law doesn’t even apply to juveniles under 15, why do kindergartners need to be threatened informed that Sex Abuse II is when:

“You are baby-sitting or playing with a small child. You have sexual contact with them by touching their penis, vaginal area, or anus, or by making them touch you in those same places. You will go to prison and could be there for 6 years and 3 months.”

Who designed and approved this brochure? Why, Portland Police Bureau of course. Calling Chief Reese!

In Utah, things are done the old-fashioned way. Mr. Ronnie Lee Gardner is set to be executed by the State for a pair of murders in the 1980’s. Sentenced before 2004, when the law changed, Mr. Gardner is allowed to choose his manner of execution, between lethal injection or firing squad. His choice? “I would like the firing squad, please,” Gardner said. Naturally, not everyone is happy with the decision. Including the victim’s friends and family.