Think of the Children (Maine Law)

[cannon_fodder]

If a creepy old man is sitting at a public park watching children and parents/officers think he is  doing so inappropriately (read: he's a pervert) all they can do is express concern and ask him to move along.  I've actually had this happen to me when I was playing with my then-puppy  at my son's school while waiting for him to be released for the day - apperently too close to some recess children who came over to see my dog.  The teacher called the office who sent the principle out to ask me to move along.

Happened again while training my dog at the park near my house (apperently perverts use dogs to get kids closer - I like people nearby to serve as distractions).  An officer showed up and talked to me about it and seemed reassured with my explanation.  He took down my information and then spoke with the coach (or whomever) and was on his way.

Both seem like reasonable responses to me.  In some situations, asking the person to just leave may be justifiable (record or other reason to fear).  BUT, Maine has now taken it a step further:

quote:Under the bill, if someone is arrested for viewing children in a public place, it would be a Class D felony if the child is between 12 to 14 years old and a Class C felony if the child is under 12, according to Alexander.

A great example of "think of the children" gone wrong. If I take a break from a bike ride to watch a soccer practice I could be arrested for "viewing children in public" and slapped with a felony charge?  What if I love across from a park and like to have a beer on my porch - must I avert my eyes?

Just found this to be a great example of good intentions gone bad.

Article here:
http://www.seacoastonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080406/NEWS/804060343/-1/NEWS01

[TeeDub]

Ah, another law just a lawsuit away from being unconstitutional.