Civil Rights Lawyer 'Disconcerted' by Racine Rave Police's Reaction

Erik R. Guenther, the attorney who helped gain justice for the 400 Wisconsin ravers terrorised after gun toting cops raided a party they were attending, spoke to Skrufff this week about the fallout from the controversial case.

Racine police chief Spenner told the Racine Journal Times he was 'disappointed' with the dismissals, which prompted Mr Guenther to express his concern.

"I am supportive of Chief Spenner's efforts to combat drug use," said Mr Guenther.

"However, I am disconcerted that he would be 'disappointed' with the dismissals which suggests to me that the police department may not recognize that its actions were unconstitutional. I support police efforts to curb drug use, but if those efforts again trample the Constitutional rights of individuals, I will again be proud to stand alongside the American Civil Liberties Union to combat such wrongful police conduct."

I am hopeful that this sends a strong message in the State of Wisconsin and elsewhere that targeting individuals whose only action is attendance at an electronic music event clearly violates the Constitutionally protected rights of freedom of speech and freedom of assembly," Mr Guenther added.

(Erik R. Guenther, from Hostak, Henzl & Bichler, S.C.)
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