We guess the folks involved in Dade in implementing this should be applauded for their forgiving nature and steadfast belief in rehabilitation and second chances. The problem is that we keep hearing the whole thing has boiled down to how much money a certain "upset" civic organization will get per DUI to approve the program. ("Upset" as in "angry", "ticked off", or...ummm.... "mad" -get it?)
Speaking of Monkeys....
We repay the Broward Blog by reporting on their excellent coverage on perhaps the greatest South Florida Urban Legal Legend Ever (GSFULLE)- The day famed Broward Defense Attorney Kayo Morgan brought his pet money (Smooch) into a Florida Key's Courtroom on a contempt hearing.
For those of you who know Kayo or know of him, you know he is a fearless attorney. A tireless advocate for his client, Kayo backs down from no one, including judges who he thinks are treating him or his client improperly. Thus Kayo found himself in court one day in Plantation impatient to get his hearing over with quickly and return to Smooch, who was diabetic. The Judge felt Kayo was rude bordering on contemptuous and set a hearing for a motion on contempt. And then, in a move that will not long be forgotten, Kayo appeared for his hearing.....with Smooch!
The newspaper accounts have Smooch firmly planted on Kayo's shoulder as he questioned witnesses in his own defense. Kayo tells the Broward Blog here that while he did bring Smooch into court, he originally had Smooch and his secretary waiting in a car outside and when the Judge heard this, he invited Kayo to bring Smootch into court. Despite his apparent cuteness, (Smootch not Kayo) Kayo was found in contempt and sentenced to spend some time behind bars. Thus as Smooch slept comfortably in Kayo's bed that night, Kayo spent the evening in a cage. The case has a happy ending as Kayo's conviction was overturned on appeal.
The Miami Herald coverage is here. The National Enquire coverage (of course they covered it) is here.
Smooch, making a point in court better than many of our adversaries ever have.