FAIR TRIAL, NO CLASS

It's America, I get it. Freedom of Press, Freedom of Speech. Fine, print whatever you want, but at least do your homework beforehand. Remember, that with all of our basic freedoms in the country, we also get the right to a fair trial.

The coverage of John Deacon and Frank Ianetta since their release from prison has been atrocious. Supporters like myself are few and far between. Quite literally. There's a national beat writer out of St Paul, Scott Devonshire, wrote a small piece about thorough crime investigations and pointed out how a rush-job can put two innocent men behind bars. Other than Devonshire, I can't put my finger on anyone else, especially local writers. Sure, there are a few of your left-wing lunatics who support just about everyone in prison, but no one with a rational agenda has come forward.

I was listening to talk radio on my way home the day Deacon and Ianetta's release was made public. I heard some of the most cretinous filth coming not only from the host, but the callers. One caller suggested we get rid of the appeals court. Another suggested--get this--the punishment should literally fit the crime. In other words, if you commit and arson, you should be set on fire. I honestly wish it was a joke.

Look, I've covered this story for almost three years now. I've gone through the trial transcripts, the investigation logs, the arson handbooks, talked to dozens of experts, several witnesses and written over 20,000 words of copy. I challenge anyone to come forward with more authority on this case than I do. There is no doubt in my mind that these two men are innocent. None.