Xavier Alvarez’ shysters explain phony’s value

Xavier Alvarez, was a water commissioner in Pomona, CA who told the audience at a debate for that office that he’d been awarded an imaginary Medal of Honor during his imaginary military service. Alvaez was convicted of violating the Stolen Valor Act. Apparently in an attempt to make themselves the laughing stock of the entire planet, Alvarez lawyers, during the appeal process are arguing that some of the philosophers who influenced the founding of our political system would argue that it’s Alvarez’ right to lie (Marine Times link);

They cite John Milton, a 17th century writer, and John Stuart Mill, a 19th century philosopher, to argue that falsehoods can improve public debate by spurring the search for truth. They also said the three-judge panel’s ruling was clear, that some lies are protected by the 1st Amendment and that Alvarez’s false claim to have a medal posed no clear and present danger.

Yes, you read that correctly – Alvarez’ intentional lie about his service and the Medal of Honor improves the public debate. Being a lying fuck is like being a light in the mineshaft.

In fact, because I got Bs in my two undergrad ConLaw classes, I’m declaring myself a lawyer (I’ll be a Federal judge before Spring). If you need legal advice, I’ll be hanging out in front of law offices across the country in ragged Joseph A. Banks suits (tie loosened, shirt tail hanging out, a drawing of Johnny Cochran in chalk on my back, the smell of boxed table wine on my breath) declaring myself a senior partner of the nearest law office and giving out free legal advice.

Yup, I only want to improve the public debate.

Thanks to Paul for the link.

TSO Adds:Calling all lawyers, can someone with PACER grab the filing and send it to me via email?

Category: Phony soldiers