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Baylorugby6 01/26/2012 8:13:00 PM
I had a friend named Trip that was with that group of friends that night.
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jody 08/17/2011 7:11:00 PM
Eddie Helle- Case # 08-04351-CRF-361)....The defendant was arrested on the MTR warrant on 07/08/11 and is scheduled for Court on 09/08/11 in the 361st District Court in which the presiding Judge is Steve Smith.
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Jody 07/09/2011 8:24:00 PM
Eddie Helle was arrested in March of 2011 for a DWI in Wharton County. This action has caused his probation to be revoked and he will again face Judge Smith in the near future. The saga continues for this young man and one can only wonder where Eddie would be if TAMU had enforced the TAMU Student Codes back in 2005.
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Susangreuter 05/03/2011 7:41:00 PM
Someone needs to take a stand against the Corp at Texas A&M. It seems that because of some "good old boy" mentality that lingers at this college, they get away with any and everything. Almost twelve years ago in October 1999, my sister and five of her friends were walking to a party and a member of the Corp, who come to find out had been in a hazing incident known as "pot bashing" ran off the road and killed all six of them. He had blacked out behind the wheel due to a concusion as a result of this hazing incident. He was the first victim in this tradgedy, my sister and her friends were as well. The Texas courts would not take on this case. Not justice was ever served. No one was held accountable. None of this had to happen. The "pot bashing" was considered a tradition in the Corp. Are we so warped to think that an action that causes bodily injury is considered a tradition? Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue are traditions. Unfortunately, my sister did not live to see her wedding day or any of these. Let's make college safe for all students. Stop the violence.
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Jody 04/22/2011 9:23:00 AM
Bobln Texas....Within the Main Article is a comment section that explains TAMU's actions and the various "violated student codes" which you can review in detail. Also, if you so desire,the TAMU Students Codes are published for public review. TAMU "initiated" all actions with regards to the student assault. TAMU did not follow there published codes which is clear in the article.
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Longbard 04/12/2011 4:23:00 PM
Blah blah t-sip fehgs..typical aggy delusion. Sheep fuckers.
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Chris 04/10/2011 9:33:00 PM
It's funny to see a few try to trash this article, just because they support the corp. When in fact the majority of Ags that I know, current and former students, can't stand the CoC. They are just a small percentage of Texas A&M, but are a true embarrassment to the school and the state of Texas. I don't know how many Corp guys I've come across that have attitudes like these punks. You wonder why Texas, TT, and now most big schools in the nation make fun of us? Because every time the Corp is on tv they are doing something else that makes you just shake your head and wish you didn't just see grown men with shaved heads grabbing their testicles.
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BobInTexas 03/01/2011 5:08:00 PM
Very poor journalism here, as the actions are characterized from the injured party's prespective to elicit an emotional response from the readers and lacks any form of unbiased reporting. While the action is terrible, it is a criminal matter unrelated to Texas A&M University in any way. The event occurred at a private apartment complex, and so wasn't even on the school grounds. Completely worthless piece of trash, this article.
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Jody 09/23/2010 12:18:00 PM
Judge Smith has given a Trial Date of November 29,2010. Final Pretrial for November 22,2010 and a Plea deadline of November24,2010.
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jody 08/23/2010 8:36:00 AM
The author of 08/22/2010 needs to read jody 02/16/2008, 10/03/2008,03/11/2009 and 12/26/2009 and try to understand that this article has nothing to do with The Corps of Cadets,but "Aggravated Assault" which is a Felony 2 in The State of Texas.
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You Dumb Bitches 08/22/2010 10:40:00 PM
This article is garbage. There are too many dumb peices of shit pilling on with the comments. Anyone who says anything negative about a&m or the corps is obviously delusional. This type of thing happens everyday in the real world. There are more assaults by University of Texas football players on other people every weekend than corps assaults at Texas A&M.
Sounds like people who pile on about the corps have a very serious case of insecurity about thier own affiliations.
This is a hit peice pure and simple.
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anonymous 07/07/2010 4:09:00 AM
Also forgot to re-iterate that this has nothing to do with the corp, except maybe it helped make him stronger. Helle is a socio path, and always has been back to the days I knew him from elementary and on.
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anonymous 07/07/2010 4:06:00 AM
Eddie Helle has been rotten to the core since I knew him in elementary. He's a perpetual bully, and I wish I could understand what is going on in his head, but the only true thing about Helle is that he has no sense of remorse for doing the things he does. He has always had a way of breaking spirits around him and giving many a sense of inferiority. Even those who fool themselves into thinking that they've somehow been able to get his respect one day see that they've been duped, whether it's by Helle physically putting them in their place or mentally reminding them of where they stand as an inferior human being to him. He is a true socio path, and I do not think this is the last the world will hear of him.
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jody 05/30/2010 6:31:00 AM
The 6/21/2010 Trial has been delayed again................
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Jody 01/05/2010 8:26:00 PM
The Status Hearing for Edward Helle and Steven Ramirez waas held on January 4, 2010. Their Trial Date was set for June 21, 2010.
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Jody 12/26/2009 6:28:00 PM
The State of Texas V. Edward Ronald Helle, Cause No. 08-04929-CRM-361 and 08-04351-CRF-361 in the 361 Judicial District Court of Brazos County, Texas AND The State of Texas V. Steven Ramirez, Cause No. 08-03900-CRM-361 and 08-04352-CRF-361 in the 361 Judicial District Court of Brazos County, Texas. The above referenced causes have been set for a status hearing in the 361 District Court of Brazos County, Texas at 11:00 A.M. on Januray 4, 2010.
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jody 04/20/2009 8:33:00 AM
In response to line item 148. Judge Smith of Bryan, tx. has appointed Tuck McLain, Grimes County, Texas Disrtict Attorney as the Attorney Pro Tem for the prosecution of the charges of a Felony 2 against Defendents Edward Helle and Steven Ramirez
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jody 03/12/2009 7:36:00 AM
Judge Smith in Bryan, Texas is too appoint a prosecutor to represent the "State of Texas" in the Crimal Assault Case of Zachary J. Corcoran(9/24/05). The DA in Bryan filed a "Motion to Recuse" Himself from the Case. This request was granted on 2/23/09 by Judge Smith. It would have been difficult for the Bryan DA(Mr. Turner) to prosecute this case do to political,financial,and other pressures he was under due to his past choices in this unfortinuate "TRAVISTY of JUSTICE"....Hopefully a Pro Tem Attorney will be appointed in early 2009 and "IN THE INTEREST OF JUSTICE" bring this case to TRIAL and JUSTICE. Most likely the Deffendants, as in the past, will again, violate their Bonds prior to trial and hopefully not be allowed to Bond Out "AGAIN" and instead spend time in State of Texas Correctional System while awaiting Trial for a Felony 2 which carries a 2-20 year jail sentence, if convicted.
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jody 02/19/2009 7:52:00 AM
I agree with Aman of Austin's Comment No.146..."The kid needs to grow up" This should happen to the kid with a stay in one of the State of Texas Criminal Facilities, if found quilty of "Assault to Cause Bodily Harm" by his Peers in a Texas Court of Law.
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Aman 02/02/2009 11:56:00 PM
The kid needs to grow up.
The kid needs to grow up.
The kid needs to grow up.
The kid needs to grow up.
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jody 10/14/2008 7:03:00 AM
The most recent legal "Event" pertaining to Mr. Edward Helle occured on 10/11/08. Case ID. No. 194422 TAMU Police Department - ASSAULT CAUSES BODILY INJURY and PUBLIC INTOXICATION....Possibly TAMU/DA/and County ATTORNEY Offices should have taken prevenative actions in 2005 and helped this young man.
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jody 10/04/2008 6:30:00 AM
Please read comment No. 143 closely then proceed to http://blogs.houstonpress.com/hairballs/2008/10/am assault zach corcoran.php also review justiceweb.co.brazos.tx.us/JudicalSearch....Case# 08-04351-CRF-361, State vs. Edward Ronald Helle - Aggravated Assault - Felony 2 - (9/25/08) and Case# 08-04352-CRF-361,State vs. Steven Rameriz -Aggraveted Assault - Felony 2 - (9/25/08)
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Lucy 08/25/2008 9:36:00 PM
I am the proud parent of THREE Aggies, but I am shaken to my "core" and ashamed after reading this article. My son graduated in 2000 after serving as one of ten seniors on the elite Corps staff that helped run what was a great Corps program. My daughters will graduate May 2009 and May 2011. I have always LOVED this great university. However, I must tearfully say that I am ashamed of Texas A&M today.
It is clear that this is an unfortunate incident that escalated out of control. But everyone has forgotten one thing: A CRIME WAS COMMITTED and has gone unpunished. Remorse isn't enough to wipe the slate clean when the outcome is so devastating and no one has the right to tell a victim to "let it go." Apologies are not sufficient to sweep this CRIMINAL ACT under the rug.
A TRUE AGGIE would have stood up and faced the music and would not have allowed themselves to be shielded by their protectors. SHAME on Helle, SHAME on Ramirez, SHAME on those who shielded them from justice, but especially SHAME on Texas A&M for protecting these criminals and letting their egregious behavior go virtually unpunished. You have driven a stake through the heart of Aggieland and damaged the heart, soul, and reputation of every TRUE Aggie by bringing shame on the university we all loved. For everyone who participated in this cover-up... SHAME ON YOU!!!
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jody 08/06/2008 10:18:00 PM
To Doug from S.A., Tx (141).....please read comment No. 138 which is "factual". Also there is only "one" victim based on the arrest by the College Sttion police of Mr. Helle and Mr. Ramierz.
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Doug 07/24/2008 3:59:00 AM
This is one of the most biased, uninformed pieces of garbage journalism I've ever had the misfortune of reading.
The Corps is not to blame for this. 3 drunk college kids get into a fight OFF campus and the university fails to prosecute to the extent that the victims would like. This has NOTHING to do with some giant "corps conspiracy" that apparently permiates all levels of government in College Station. I ought to know, I just finished four years there.
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billy 02/20/2008 9:49:00 PM
Bryan/CS government systems are a sham, they are the laughing stock of the whole state. so im not really surprised this would happen. zach, i suggest you use that ring to your full benefit and milk it for all it is worth. make as much money as possible, then when the aggies come a calling back for a donation, say STFU, im giving my donations to UT, TTU, BU, or some other school.
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Doug 02/20/2008 7:14:00 PM
"When the hearing concluded, Boren told the Corcorans that Helle and Ramirez had been suspended from the university for one semester and kicked out of the Corps. Furthermore, Helle and Ramirez were to make an effort to pay Zach's medical bills � which had grown to nearly $60,000 � before they could return to the university. And when they were allowed back on campus, the cadets were ordered to stay 50 feet away from Zach.
John Corcoran was thrilled, and for a short time, he was confident that the university he loved had done the right thing.
_____________________
Months later, the sanctions against Helle and Ramirez disappeared. "
This sums it up right here. This is why the article was written. Something happened here that is very shady. This isn't an attack against aTm or the Corp of Muppet's, its shining light on a glaring oversight.
The Corcaran's were happy with the original ruling and were moving on. They were going to leave it be until the punishments that were handed out were removed.
It is as simple as this. Please stop with the biased arguments to try and save face for the Corp and the school. If they had wanted to save face they should have carried out the punishments they themselves chose to impose. The fact that it then went to a court of law and was similarly swept under a rug just shows that the fallout for the school backing down would have tarnished its reputation and so it was once again swept away. All of this, to include this article could have been avoided had the University enforced its punishments handed down in its original ruling.
Yes it looks bad on both the school and the DA. However, the school is at fault here for dropping the punishment in the first place. Even worse they advised the victim to go to another school instead of the admitted criminals.
"Sir, I came back to get my buddy," Helle said. "That's when he made the comment, 'Yeah, y'all better leave.' I think my pride got the best of me."
That is an admission of guilt if you ask me. Pride, alcohol, stupidity, ignorance; none of these are an acceptable excuse but apparently something can buy people freedom from persecution.
Also amazing is the claims that it was a fair fight. In a court wouldn't it have helped Helle and Ramirez to point this out, though apparently they didn't for no good reason. In fact it appears they were trying from the start to hush things up by settling, then they appeared to accept their fate, which was later mysteriously overturned not only by the school but by a Court of Law.
The sad part is, this isn't an isolated incident. This happens every day, people with power/money/influence get away with crimes while normal people get persecuted to the maximum almost every time. The scary part is they are doing it so blatantly now that they even leave a trail of Legal documents to prove they simply dismissed it on a whim without any legal reason.
Welcome to the United States of Money, Greed, and Ambition. Where our leaders are elected by rich people, for rich people, with no Liberty or Justice at all.
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jody 02/16/2008 7:44:00 AM
In response to comment (137), Please go back and read the article slowly. The intent by the writer was not to put blame on the University, but the lack of University Officials with respect to inforcing the published "Student Rules" that the University has in place for "All Students". I believe that one can search TAMU Student Life Departmenat on the internet and the "Student Rules" will be listed. Then one can review Code 24.5 Off-Campus Conduct. The University performs an independent investigation and then the University holds a Diciplinary Hearing where the University vs the charged student or students. As for the police, due the severity of the injuries sustained by the victim, the responding police officer investigating the incident in the "emergency room" files a report, which goes to a police dectective. If the crime falls into the category a criminal action of assault due to the "severe bodily harm", it is brought in front of the Grand Jury by the DA office. If indicted,it is The State of Texas vs the defendant or defendants. Please review (64)/(99)/and(109)to help clarify the above statements. It is clear that the police were involved "first" and the University "second" by following their own published "Student Rules". The issue that is most astonishing in the article, is that a "County Attorney" and or a "DA" have the power to dismiss a Crininal Case at their own will and discretion. This leaves the "Victim" with no resolution for his or her injuries due to an assault and the assaliant or assaliants with no accountability for their actions. Therefore the next time you vote be careful who you elect as your "Elected Officials" to enfore the "State of Texas Legal Statutes" and their Oath of Office.
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texas aggie 02/15/2008 7:46:00 PM
The incident is unfortunate, however, it is not the University's fault that the victim didn't go to the police first to seek justice.
1. The crime was not committed on school grounds, therefore, I do not see why the victim went straight to the University first. The University did not commit the crime nor are they responsible for all of the actions of their students.
2. The criminals were not in corps uniforms, therefore, not representing the Corps of Cadets, hence, don't know how the University got involved first rather than the local law enforcement.
3. If a crime is committed against you, and you want action, go to the police and press charges.
Don't get me wrong, I dislike the Corps just as much as the next Aggie, however, the victim was at fault for these criminals not to get their deserved punishment; the law enforcement should have been the FIRST to get involved, not the last. To put the blame on the University is unfair, and to have it blown up by the HoustonPress, is even more ignorant.
Any Aggie that feels any differently about A&M, get a grip.
Thanks and Gig 'em.
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Lori 02/13/2008 2:59:00 AM
I am a graduate of A&M University and am ashamed at the lack of responsibility taken by not only the university but also the young men who unnecessarily hurt a fellow aggie. There are so many wrong elements to this story including the abuse of alcohol, the lack of respect between those who were at one time revered (i.e.the Corps) and the remaining student body, the lack of modeling moral behavior by a university, as well as the lack of integrity within the university administration and the law professionals involved in the case. What is even more unfortunate is that this type of behavior is not unique to A&M. But it is disheartening to know that a university which touts camaraderie and unity has in so many ways revealed itself as hypocritical. I hope that the current and former students of A&M strive to make necessary changes in the culture of the university and the aggie tradition, rather than give up.
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Joshua 02/10/2008 5:51:00 PM
The justice system in that whole county is corrupt. I was given a bogus speeding ticket there once and went to fight it. At lunch I decided to eat at Subway and watched while the prosecutor bought the judge his meal. My trial was a joke. The prosecutor objected to every point I tried to make and the judge of course sustained. The jury afterward approached me and apologized for my guilty verdict but they said they had no choice because I was not allowed to make an argument. When I went to pay the fine the clerk laughed and told a co-worker, "Hey guys look here's another one that got one from Hunter." When I asked about what they were talking about they said they got several bogus tickets a day from this officer. Even several county employees had gone to court to fight them and lost.
My solution was to stop doing any business in College Station and I will never step foot there again. Not like I'm really missing anything. Too bad for this young man. I've had so many friends that have had run-ins with the "fake military" at A and M. The corps needs to disappear.
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John Doe 02/09/2008 7:45:00 PM
The Corp is a cult, like scientology or lds, and should be dismantled.
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Watcher 02/07/2008 4:00:00 AM
Aggie is a joke. The Corp is a bunch of posers.
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James 02/04/2008 1:56:00 PM
It this type of thing occured anywhere else it would be called "gang violence."
Unfortunately, in college station you have a GANG that is allowed to call themselves "the Corp" and have free reign to do what they want.
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Clay Bonilla 01/31/2008 11:19:00 PM
Personal attacks against any of the people who are personally involved in this situation are not justified. Each of you who have attacked either Helle, Ramirez, or the Corcorans have focused your attention on the wrong people.
You should be focusing on The District Attorney's Office, County Attorney's OFfice, A&M Administration and the decision makers within the CORPS. All of these organizations failed the victims in this case.
The DA's office was wholly unjustified in dismissing this case. I was in the conference room when the county attorney attacked my friend, Zach Corcoran, and his family over the telephone. I have never heard more cowardly and un-professional comments made by an elected official in my life. HE ATTACKED THE VICTIM, whom he was sworn in to protect. He expressed total disregard for the victim, and disregarded everything that was said...I bet his pockets are deep now, though...
The A&M Administration failed in that it neglected to follow its own policies that were written in black and white. What is deter other students at ATM from causing similar injuries or creating similar situations? Nothing...you may get probation or suspended for a semester, but ultimately, you are going to be reinstated early without experiencing the full range of penalties, or any penalty for that matter.
The system failed here. It is obvious. It failed and unfortunately, it hurt my good friend, Zach Corcoran. I commend the Corcoran family in their pursuit of justice, and I hope that they find it. I know I will help them in any way that I can. ANybody that has attacked their family on this board obviously does not know them and should get their facts straight before attacking a family in whole.
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Elderlady 01/31/2008 8:13:00 PM
In the real world, these two neanderthals could be looking at the possibility of "attempted murder" not simple assault.
What a travesty.
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Lee Shieldes 01/31/2008 5:26:00 PM
Well, as a Corp member class of '97, all I can say is that this is par for the course for the legal system in B/CS. Fall of '94 we were leaving a party, bunch of local kids jumped a friend when he refused to give out a wallet, we went to help him out, as all Corps buddies will do. It was 9 of them on 5 of us. I suffered a broken jaw in 3 different places, we were all rather bloody, and they were worse.
I had a couple of surgeries, and could still use several more for a severally messed up jaw. We hired prosecuters, we hired investigaters. Nothing happened, it was a two way fight and the expenses to pursue anything would be way more then the "justice" dolled out by the system.
This is the same situation, I don't know if anyone really explained everything to the family, but they should have taken the plea.
Now, as far as the Corps, yes, these two should have been kicked out, no more questions. As far as the father, with his ring and his sons ring, disgusting, you sir really are not an Aggie. As with the harsh lessons we learned in the Corps, you learn about life here, you grow, you prosper, you take what has happened and you make yourself the bigger, better person and never allow such a thing to happen again.
Lee A-Batt BQ '97
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Bill 01/30/2008 5:29:00 PM
Attorney Jody Mask is quoted as saying "I really hope the Corcoran family would get counseling. Everyone needs to just walk away."
If it were my son whose life had just been ruined, and who was looking at tens of thousands of dollars worth of medical bills, my walking would be right up Mask's backside for a tapdance on his empty head.
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Andrew 01/30/2008 2:15:00 PM
I was once a reporter and editor in a college town, and the paper I worked for covered several stories of this type. There were times when justice was forthcoming, times when it needed a little nudge from the press, and times when the powers that be were just too entrenched and frightened to bring a case into the light. No matter how this one turns out, I'm glad for the sake of all involved that the Houston Press has covered it. Whenever a crime has occurred, but particularly a violent one, the damage to one's sense of meaning and order in the world is often just as great as the damage to the body. Seeing justice in a courtroom is an important way of restoring that order. But telling a fair and thorough story, as this reporter has done, can be just as potent a means of restoration. I hope that it brings peace to all those who have been hurt by this incident and, with luck, a sense of repentance to those who are responsible.
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Trent Seastrunk 01/30/2008 5:41:00 AM
IMBB that's the dumbest thing I've ever heard. What do you not understand about the words "CREDIBLE SOURCE"? This "Michelle" person who "was a student at A&M at the time of the incident" is supposed to be a credible source? I don't know much about the Houston Press, but I trust a newspaper to deliver a more accurate story than a random student at A&M. Was she there when the fights happened? Was she behind the scenes seeing how everything went down? No, and she doesn't even claim to be. How is her post supposed to convince me that the newspaper article is all false? Just because some random A&M poster got on here and made some comments about the "truth", I'm supposed to completely disregard the newspaper article? You're an idiot.
Prove that those are facts. Prove that the newspaper got the information wrong that you claim it did. Then come talk to me.
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imbb 01/30/2008 4:32:00 AM
Read Post #38...for the most accurate description of the events on campus....... and remember....... that what you read from this Houston Press article is mostly FALSE information.... period... end of story.. and as far as someone being pursued and assaulted... I would have to say the only one who actively pursued anyone was Grant Cocoran and his crew getting someone to call Helle down to meet them !! Hello !! Is there anyone out there? Talk about stinking! But does he get any heat for that............no! I think there are some serious problems with you understanding that as someone else put it (earlier post) 90% of your questions are irrelevent... Its been heard by those who needed to hear it. Become a lawyer so you can fight your so called corrupt system. No need to bring every stinking detail to you to satify your curiosity. Move on.
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Trent Seastrunk 01/30/2008 3:55:00 AM
It also says in the article, "After seeing Zach in the emergency room, Grant, who was attending nearby Blinn Junior College, went to the Corps dormitory with a couple friends. When they arrived, eight Corps members, including Helle, were waiting."
"Ignorance Must be Bliss" where did you come up with 5 on 1?
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Dwayne 01/30/2008 3:03:00 AM
I read the article.
I read the comments.
I find this interesting:
Ignorance Must Be Bliss: "If you thought 2 to 1 Off Campus (Which was really 2 on 2) was so unjust.. what do you think about 5 to 1? Where is the Justice in this case?"
5 on 1? If this comment is true. It says in the article Eddie walked away with a "black eye". 5 to 1? How easy would it be for 5 people to cause serious injuries to 1? A black eye? WOW Must have been tough Ed. So, what would it take for 2 people to cause serious injuries to 1? Maybe holding the victim down and bashing his helpless face in?
2 to 1 or 2 to 2 Zach Corcorans face was bashed in.
Does anyone else find this interesting?
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Nate the Snake 01/30/2008 2:23:00 AM
Thought I get away with one with the awesome thing.
With ole Chucky E Rosenthal stinking up the DA's office, I don't think a little clarification/investigation would be such a bad thing in this case.
Does anyone consider the Houston Press a credible source? Other than Robb Walsh, I don't think there is one guy on their writing staff that can tell their ass from a hole in the ground. Although they do look like Pulitzer winners compared to the Chronicle. At least the press uses big words every once in a while.
Oh yeah, jarhead txfred, corps means a military organization consisting of officers and enlisted personnel or of officers alone. I love Marines, but vocabulary isn't their strong point.
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TXSFRED 01/30/2008 1:05:00 AM
After mistakenly taking the time to read the rest of the comments here, I will add one more. Any of you silly little college boy "beloved corps" TAMU types that think being a TAMU corps turd makes you tough need to matriculate at MCRD San Diego or MCRD Parris Island followed by a little graduate Infantry class work at Camp Pendleton or Camp Legeune ( for your Masters tough guy degree. )
You, at graduation after 4 or 5 years as a A&M corps turd frat boy wouldn't make an ingrown pimple on the ass of a UNITED STATES MARINE PRIVATE.
The MARINE CORPS needs to sue you silly college boys for using the word "corps." You denigrate it. Of course, if they did, that would only lower the reputation of THE one and only real CORPS, the one that has kicked ass and taken names for 232 years using real weapons, dying and and bleeding real blood to keep the world safe for college boys like you.
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David Sanders 01/30/2008 12:26:00 AM
Zach,
I think you should take off your ring too. I don't think any Aggies would mind, if you didn't represent their school either. Unless you need the ring for business. Trying to tap into that "Aggie Network" for monetary gain? In other words you wear it sometimes as a business convenience...... and your father encourages it.
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TXSFRED 01/30/2008 12:17:00 AM
Texas A&M can kiss my ass
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Trent Seastrunk 01/29/2008 11:58:00 PM
Nate the Awesome now?? Haha don't you try to full a fast one on me, I know who you are. And yes the Baylor-A&M game was THE most exciting basketball game I've ever witnessed, barely beating out the Houston Rockets - San Antonio Spurs game where Tracy McGrady scored 13 points in 35 seconds to give the Rockets the win by one.
"Could the DA's office be dirty? Certainly. But there is no hard evidence of corruption."
I agree to that, which is why I said this needs to be further investigated because something is definitely shady down there.
"And as far as your complete unbiassedness - may I admit into evidence exhibit A - "The Battle of the Brazos" - Baylor hatin' A&M since 1899."
Well I hated A&M long before I ever thought about coming to Baylor. I grew up a Longhorn seeing as how a lot of my family went/goes there. So maybe I'm slightly biased ;-). Seriously though, biased or unbiased, you can't deny that something is shady with this case, and I believe it deserves another chance with a jury and no foul play. I don't know all the details of this case, just what I have read in this article and what I've heard from Mr. Bonilla and family members of Zach. Yes, that's all leaning towards one side, but until I hear something different from a credible source, that's what I'm going with.
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patton 01/29/2008 10:42:00 PM
Maybe they should change the name of this paper to "Where to eat, get your fingernails done, and let's bash District Attorney's. Afterall, that's about all this paper has been writing about.
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patton 01/29/2008 10:42:00 PM
Maybe they should change the name of this paper to "Where to eat, get your fingernails done, and let's bash District Attorney's. Afterall, that's about all this paper has been writing about.
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Joaniebrody 01/29/2008 10:16:00 PM
thank-you David Bonilla for stating the situation accurately. I guess i am biased because i am a family member but I have seen this situation up close and feel some people are commenting without accurate knowledge of the legalities. Two years is a long time for a family to pursue the legal system for justice and most people would not put forth that much effort if they did not believe some injustice had occurred. it is a simple matter of justice. it just did not happen in this case. From my experience with the legal system, it does not happen in a lot of cases. that is the sad thing and what needs to be addressed.
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Nate the Awesome 01/29/2008 9:43:00 PM
The A&M-BU game was pretty awesome.
I stand corrected, the cadets were indeed indicted. However, this doesn't change my stance. If the person who is in charge of prosecuting the case doesn't believe he/she can win the case, I think it is in the interest of justice to not try the case, even if they think the perp is guilty. I don't immediately assume that the DA is a corrupt evil person. Again, if there is a question of who started the fight, man it is going to be tough to get a conviction (least if I was on the jury). Probably the most just outcome would be to convict everyone involved in the siutation with assault.
Treeant - there is no evidence that the DA's office was manipulated by A&M or whomever, you and the Corocan's chose to believe so because it fits with what you/they want to believe. Could the DA's office be dirty? Certainly. But there is no hard evidence of corruption. And as far as your complete unbiassedness - may I admit into evidence exhibit A - "The Battle of the Brazos" - Baylor hatin' A&M since 1899.
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Trent Seastrunk 01/29/2008 9:09:00 PM
Susan, I am in no way related to anyone in this case nor do I even know anyone involved in the case. I'm just an outsider looking in based on the information given in this article and Mr. Bonilla's last post. I never said anything about my words being credible because I am not presenting any information. The word "credible" doesn't apply to anything I've said because, again, I'm not presenting any information. So your argument there makes no sense, Susan.
As for Mr. Bonilla's last post, all he did was state what happened with the indictment. Maybe you come from a&m and are biased towards the cadets. Maybe you don't want anything bad to happen to them because they represent your school. Maybe YOU are the biased one, Susan. Of course, I don't know whether or not you are an aggie or a&m supporter, but if you are, then maybe you are the biased one for those reasons.
I post comments on this article expressing my feelings on this situation because I think it is fun, Susan. Does that bother you?
-Trent Seastrunk
Baylor University
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Susan Jeffers 01/29/2008 8:39:00 PM
Thank you Mr. Bonilla, And who's attorney and friend are you? Yah the Corcoran's.
Biased information again. Everyone's on the I'm related to Zach "pity train". He's my cousin, best friend, brother, nephew,client, etc. Was some of that $ 100,000 the Corcorans supposedly spent, given to you? Still on retainer?????? How about you Trent? What makes your comments so much more credible than others? What makes you so interested. You have posted more comments on this site than anyone. Shows alot of passion for the subject. Are you a relative too? You've almost got as much word count in this as the writer.
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Trent Seastrunk 01/29/2008 8:11:00 PM
Thank you, Mr. Bonilla for clearing that up. I also want to thank Will G., Sheryl, and "Nate the Snake" for expressing their opinion that the cadets weren't indicted. Good work folks.
Mr. Bonilla's comment also supports my argument that this was a very shady situation (the court hearing).
"I don't believe the District Attorney's office wanted this case in their lap and therefore presented the case to Grand Jury without witnesses and without medical documentation. The case was presented as a misdmeanor and therefore the Grand Jury followed the DA's lead."
How SHADY is that? This case needs to be much further investigated and brought to a higher court somewhere other than Bryan, Texas where 99% of the people are aggies.
-Trent Seastrunk
Baylor University
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david bonilla 01/29/2008 7:55:00 PM
I have attempted to avoid commenting on this article but would like to clear up issues regarding the indictment. This case was presented to the Brazos County Grand Jury in Dec. of 05. Grand Jury deliberations are confidential so we don't know exactly what was presented nor do we know what information was provided for their consideration. We do know there were three eyewitnesses scheduled to testify. 30 minutes before the witnesses were to testify the presenting asst. DA called me and said the witnesses would not be neccessary. Shortly thereafter the Grand Jury Indicted Helle and Ramirez on Class A Misdmeanor charge of Assault. There are at least two ways for an individual to be charged with a misdmeanor, one is for the county atty to file a complaint and then a information, another way is to be Indicted by the Grand Jury. The Grand Jury did in fact indict this case and you can confirm by looking at the County Court @ Law file where the case landed. I don't believe the District Attorney's office wanted this case in their lap and therefore presented the case to Grand Jury without witnesses and without medical documentation. The case was presented as a misdmeanor and therefore the Grand Jury followed the DA's lead. By the way the Grand Jury does not decide guilt or innocence but merely determines if the elements of a crime are present. If so they indict. If not they do not. I hope this clears up the Indictment issue.
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Trent Seastrunk 01/29/2008 7:37:00 PM
Yes, "Nate the Snake", I have been to College Station. I was there for the football game last fall, the 5OT basketball game last Wednesday, and two or three other times for recreational purposes. Most of the time I was wearing Baylor shirts and no incidents have ever occurred.
I just want this "Ignorance Must be Bliss" character to cough up some "facts" for us, since there's a lot stuff we all don't know.
-Trent Seastrunk
Baylor University
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Nate the Snake 01/29/2008 7:19:00 PM
Trent Seastrunk, Baylor University:
Thanks for the compliment on the handle, I spent many hours trying to come up with a name that was generally pleasing and cute.
As far as half-crazed Aggies - Have you been to College Station? It is well known as a place to get your ass kicked if you show up with an opposing team's paraphenalia. Just remember it only takes one.
As far as giving the case a chance, if a grand jury no billed it, isn't that giving it a chance?
It is good to hear that Zach regrets his role in the situation, I just don't see how the two families can't get together and come to terms with the whole situation.
Kyle you wrote: "Aggravated Assault is defined as an unlawful attack by one person upon another with the intent of inflicting serious bodily injury." I agree with your definition. Now you go into court and prove to me that these two guys intended to inflict serious bodily injury. That is going to be very difficult to prove, really all there is that could be 'proven' is just Assault.
To the guys bashing the family: The author of this article had his own agenda and I am sure he didn't ask the family for their final approval before printing it.
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Trent Seastrunk 01/29/2008 6:50:00 PM
Thank you, Kyle. I couldn't have said it better.
And Blake, you are right, if this "Ignorance Must be Bliss" guy is so familiar with the story and everyone in it, if he has done his homework on this case and knows all the "facts", then he knows you don't have a sister. It doesn't matter if he made a mistake and he meant to say John Corcoran's sister, remember he's the one that's so familiar with everything and all the "facts". IMBB, it's hard to believe you and your "facts" when you make these kind of mistakes. Again, show me the "facts" from a credible source.
-Trent Seastrunk
Baylor University
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Lindsay 01/29/2008 6:47:00 PM
What a shameful affair. Where is the justice that our country is so proud of? We put so much faith in our elected leaders, and they so often let us down. Texas, for all your boasts of patriotism and morality--you have shamed yourself in this supreme neglect of justice. Justice can not be settled with money changing hands--any one who believes this has a skewed sense of it. Justice is about the principle of it all. People must be held accountable for their actions. They should not be allowed to wriggle out of it.
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Trent Seastrunk 01/29/2008 6:31:00 PM
Well, "Ignorance Must be Bliss", that's a cute "handle" first of all. And since you know all these "facts" why don't you present them in a credible manner (i.e. post a link to a website with all these "facts"). You're absolutely right, I'm making my argument based on the information given to me in this newspaper article. Certainly this newspaper article is a more credible source than you sitting behind your computer screen typing that big lecture of yours containing "facts" and personal experiences.
My point is, if all of these things you say are, in fact, true, I'd like to see them from a credible source, not you typing at your computer. If you can produce that for me, my argument would be a lot different from what it is now because, like I said, all I've got to go by is what's in this article. Show me the facts and I'll change my argument.
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fuck you 01/29/2008 5:51:00 PM
All a&m students,present and past, are mental rejects most of which can't get into a good college!Any employer outside TEXAS has no regard for a graduate from a&m!!Hell, they can't even be trusted to build a bonfire! As for the "corps of cadets"..iy should be tht "corps of mis-fit psychos and assholes"!
FUCK A&M AND ANYONE WHO EVER WENT THERE!
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fuck you 01/29/2008 5:51:00 PM
All a&m students,present and past, are mental rejects most of which can't get into a good college!Any employer outside TEXAS has no regard for a graduate from a&m!!Hell, they can't even be trusted to build a bonfire! As for the "corps of cadets"..iy should be tht "corps of mis-fit psychos and assholes"!
FUCK A&M AND ANYONE WHO EVER WENT THERE!
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Eric 01/29/2008 5:39:00 PM
I believe that Ignorance Must Be Bliss is referring to the comment posted by Kathleen Martin, Mr. Corcoran's sister.
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Blake Corcoran 01/29/2008 5:13:00 PM
Ignorance Must Be Bliss, we don't have any sisters... You obviously don't know us, so don't presume to know what our family is looking for. You say you know about this case, but you dont mention who you are or who told you what you "know". How can anyone believe what you say? It seems everyone who supports Helle and Ramirez's side likes to hide information and lie. Why should we think anything different from you? I am not attacking you, I just don't see where you are coming from. We sent a packet to the Houston Press, and they decided to follow up on the story, we did not have to buy out the article as you surmise. As to the fight with Grant, if you want photos of the "victim" maybe you should ask Katherine Helle for them, apparently she took some after the fight.
What it comes down to is that Zach was assaulted, and the people who did it to him got away with no penalty. It is clearly not a case of self defense, as Zach was pinned to the ground and could not attack nor defend himself. Zach knows he shouldn't have said anything to them, to just let them leave, but that does not give them the right to bash his face in. Appearantly, if you are in the A&M Corps you are allowed. That is the message that is conveyed by the article and the actions of Texas A&M and Brazos County.
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kyle 01/29/2008 4:19:00 PM
Nate, Definition - Aggravated Assault is defined as an unlawful attack by one person upon another with the intent of inflicting serious bodily injury. Aggravated Assaults are frequently accomplished through the use or threatened use of dangerous weapons. However, assaults resulting in serious injury from the use of hands or feet are also counted in this category. Attempts to assault are counted here since it is not necessary that injury results whenever a danerous weapon is employed. If you desire to review Aggravated Assault further go to O'Connor's Criminal Codes - Penal Code 22.01 Assault and Penal Code 22.02 Aggravated Assault. "Zach was taken to the emergency room at the College Station Medical Center. He had a concussion, a broken nose, and "blowout" of the bones that held his left eyeball in place." I believe this would qualify as serious bodily injury. I suggest that you read the Article slowly and thoroughly. The alleged aggravated assault took place according to the Article, when "Steven lifted Zach and pinned him prostrate on the couch. Zach struggled to free himself, rubbing the skin from his elbows and forearms. Eddie hit Zach until he screamed. The left side of his face caved in." "Chill the f... out!" Zach yelled. "Look at my f...... face!" It appears from reading the Article, there was a defenseless individual incurring serious bodily harm. This Article is not about the Corps., two big dudes, or TAMU, which is an outstanding educational institution. It is about the lack of enforcing the University Student Codes, if they applied, and the Criminal Justice System in Bryan/College Station Area. The Article also displays the immense amount of power that the D.A. and the County Attorney have over every citizen's life in the State of Texas. There are two sides to every story and that is exactly why there is a Judicial System with courts of law and juries.
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Will G 01/29/2008 4:10:00 PM
Thank you Jody for the definition of "No Bill", and thank you Sheryl. Sheryl you are 100% correct. Helle and Ramirez were never indicted, and the court records are open to prove that. I myself went and checked this very fact out, for fear of making an ignorant comment the way Jody, Mr. Corcoran and others have. Sometimes it is better to keep your mouth shut and not look stupid, unless you check out the facts, yourself. Too bad Mr. Knight didn't do the same before the Corcoran's got him to run this story. Poor Corcorans sister, she seems to be in the situation that "ignorance is Bliss" described. She has been told the same story so many times, the biased one, that she honestly believes it.
Another thing, if Zach was in such bad shape, with a concussion, why did the doctors release him from the hospital? Didn't Mr. Corcoran himself say that Zach was at a friends house, within 6 hours of the incident. More smoke and lights..... Are ou all enjoying the show yet?
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Sheryl 01/29/2008 3:41:00 PM
Court records are open -- Helle and Ramirez were never indicted.
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jody 01/29/2008 3:26:00 PM
Definition- "No Bill" - A Grand Jury determination that there is not adequate evidence to indict someone. Helle and Ramerize were indicted and arrested.
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Will G 01/29/2008 2:51:00 PM
Now some of the other side is finally coming to light. The Corocorans keep saying they want a jury to hear their case. Read the part again about how a Grand Jury heard it, and chose not to charge the two Cadets with felonies. So a jury of 12 already heard the case, and facts that none of you have been privy too, and they "No Billed" it. There is a saying in the legal profession that a Grand Jury will "indict a ham sandwich". Are the Corcorans thinking that these 12 people were all wrong too. Remember the "two sides to every story" rule. Maybe Helle and Ramirez's fathers should pay to have an article written too.
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Will G 01/29/2008 2:51:00 PM
Now some of the other side is finally coming to light. The Corocorans keep saying they want a jury to hear their case. Read the part again about how a Grand Jury heard it, and chose not to charge the two Cadets with felonies. So a jury of 12 already heard the case, and facts that none of you have been privy too, and they "No Billed" it. There is a saying in the legal profession that a Grand Jury will "indict a ham sandwich". Are the Corcorans thinking that these 12 people were all wrong too. Remember the "two sides to every story" rule. Maybe Helle and Ramirez's fathers should pay to have an article written too.
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Ignorance Must Be Bliss 01/29/2008 2:18:00 PM
P.S.S. Lastly, does anyone find it strange that Mr. Cocaran encourages his son to wear his Aggie ring for "Business" reasons? I think that is the definition of being "Hypocritical". Is this for Money sake? What does the Ring mean that would cause him to Want his Son to wear it? Maybe the very thing you are attacking? Showing Honor sometimes Sir means letting go and listening to what the Higher Power is telling you,who ever that may be. It maybe the only thing that saves you from insanity.. Many people have experienced this , I'm sure most of the people who read the article have.
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Ignorance Must Be Bliss 01/29/2008 1:58:00 PM
P.S. For those of you seeking bodily harm to others in restitution for something you know nothing about except what you read from a bias newspaper... your just sick. Its people like you who get locked up sooner or later. Be careful what you ask for. It could be your son, daughter,sister, or brother being attacked. I'd have to agree with Nates description... this is "real life", too bad you don't see the "real story".
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Ignorance Must Be Bliss 01/29/2008 1:40:00 PM
If you tell a story over and over, after a while you may believe it to be the truth, enough so that you even try to convince others.
Leah Cook, SOBER! Amazing that she drank one for one with all the other three, but was still sober. In fact she denied her drinking, to the school to avoid being repromanded for breaking the "under age" drinking code. There were plenty of photos being passed around college station that showed her, Zach, Katherine and Reid doing alot of drinking that day, at alot of differnt bars.
Wasn't the name of the other guy, Leah's boyfriend Reid Aniston, not Ashton? And weren't he and Zach the only ones there that weren't minors? Who contributed and bought all the alcohol? That's a good question that needs to be addressed.
Didn't Leah, testify that she and Reid were approximately 15 feet away, on the porch.Not in a bedroom with the door shut. Someone should ask her, If there is a quest for the truth, and justice is indeed the reason for this article
Didn't Reid in fact join in the fight. So it was never a two on one, but a 2 on 2! I think he bragged on getting in several good hits to the back of Helle's head. Cocorans don't want anyone dwelling on that fact.
And I happened to see Zach, less than thirty days, after the incident on Facebook., and at Northgate drinking. He didn't look like his life was ruined. He was partying it up at northgate, and then at a halloween party. Opening weekend of deer season showed him with a big buck. I've never known of a "Blind Man" that could shoot a rifle and kill a deer.
Also, if he feared for his life, why did he approach and talk to Ramirez at the Rec? Very contradictory.
*And how about the whole story about Grant Corcoran being attacked by Helle on Campus. What was Grant doing on Campus? He ,didn't live there. He, and about 5 others, went and sought out Helle and Ramirez.Post #38 you were correct on this point.... Lets see,
If you thought 2 to 1 Off Campus (Which was really 2 on 2) was so unjust.. what do you think about 5 to 1? Where is the Justice in this case? Trent from Baylor.? Sounds like your last post maybe your smarts kicked in a bit. Maybe ATM and TheCounty Procecutors know more about the facts than this lame article that sounds like the author is practicing and is on his first piece. (Try to stick to facts and not onesided comments)
How easy it is for us all to judge when we don't know all the facts. Do you think any of those drunk kids ever really told the whole story, to their parents. No, I bet not. How could they all even begin to get it right. They were all drunk, drunk, drunk.
Nate and Michelle- Hats off to you for having some common sense in your posts.. If you like others knew ALL the facts you might understand that Zach is not the only one who suffers in this case and by not taking their answer without throwing a tantrum they only continue the pain being caused to everyone involved , including their boys.
*Remember, this is a one-sided article that was written in a "free" newspaper. People don't pay for it, so it doesn't have to be as accountable.
I am not attacking anyone the way so many of you have. Maybe it has been the Corcorans "comfortable lifestyle" that got this article written, in the first place. How is it that everyone is so wrong, and they are the only ones right. Maybe they are really mad at themselves for not accepting an honorable apology and restitution for Zachs Hospital bills. Do you need more money so you can continue to eat at the "Town Club" and look out of your office window from up on high. Maybe $50,000 is nothing to you, but to some it is "Hard" earned with sweat.
I'm sure the Cocorans would like to know the whole story and maybe Zach should be the one to start telling it.Maybe he and Grant should let his sister in on the true events also.That would be the honorable thing to do since she has lovingly placed her trust in you and is trying to stand by you.
As for Mr. Cocoran, let's see..one son gets into a fight off of ATM campus and you can't let it go... your other son (Grant) and 4 of his buddies go looking and initiating a fight on Campus and you neglect to tell the true details of this offense?.. showing no remorse for his actions and the harm he and his"buddies" caused their victim? I see no photos of the victim in this case. Very interesting! But, lets blame ATM, The Corp, The DA... God, and the "damn dog". You have some very conflicting values, sir. To be honest it sounds like you really should get some professional help..as suggested..then maybe your sons can get on with their lives. AA might be a good place to start. Perhaps this is what the Board of Peers who ruled on this case saw also... and perhaps this is what the "System" is telling you. This is not an attack, sir, only a true statement with concern for all.
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Trent Seastrunk 01/29/2008 7:33:00 AM
Well, "Nate the Snake", that sure is a cute handle. Very creative.
"something slightly witty so you don't have crazed psychos hunting you down when you sign stuff with your real name. Maybe you have heard of the Internet? I hope that you aren't signing your actual name so a bunch of half crazed Aggies don't show up at your front door looking for blood."
First off, aren't a lot of these people trying to convince the world that aggies are not aggressive rednecks looking for trouble? You're doing a great job helping that image. And a bunch of aggies showing up wanting to fight because of what I said on this article is the least of my worries. It'd be funny to see that happen.
You're right, I guess neither of us will win this argument because we're dug in to our opinions pretty deep. However, I do agree, based on the article, that Zach was partially at fault for the drunken fight starting, but I still think the important part of this story is the lack of punishment issued to the cadets. There could be a lot of different arguments made as to who should get charged with what, but someone needs to give this case a chance. Give it a chance to make it to court and let the jury decide what happens. There's some seriously shady stuff going on involving this case and it points to A&M and Brazos County officials.
-Trent Seastrunk
Baylor University
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Nate the Snake 01/29/2008 4:03:00 AM
Trent Seastrunk, Baylor University:
Its called a handle. You know something slightly witty so you don't have crazed psychos hunting you down when you sign stuff with your real name. Maybe you have heard of the Internet? I hope that you aren't signing your actual name so a bunch of half crazed Aggies don't show up at your front door looking for blood.
I guess where we are differing is that you are latched onto the fact that Zach suffered some pretty significant permanent damage and I am really only concerned with how the whole situation started. I think intent plays a large role in determining guilt. I completely agree that these two guys should suffer some consequences for what went down, but I think Zach has to stand up and acknowledge his responsibility in the incident.
And although I am fast losing my faith in the justice system, I still try to believe that the DA's offices in Texas are still acting in the interest of justice. You are claiming they are negligent without hearing their side. I want to believe (and thereby do believe) that the DA's office has a good reason for dropping the charges. I would certainly like to hear exactly what went on to bring about the dismissal (and if in fact there is an injustice happening, not only should the two cadets serve prison time, so should the DA).
I really think that the DA dropped the case because he/she didn't think he/she could get a conviction. Actually, according to the legal definition of assault, just the threat of violence is considered assault. Therefore, when Zach told these dudes he thought the better leave and was physically threatening them (again I don't know whether or not he was) then he committed assault (Class C). Then one could make the argument that the huge cadets were simply defending themselves. I guess I really don't want to believe that all of our government officials are corrupt.
Just in case you were wondering, a terrorist threat is a Class B misdemeanor (the same as indecent exposure).
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Kim C. 01/29/2008 3:08:00 AM
I am shocked at the lack of objective journalism shown in this article. I am a student at A&M minoring in journalism and I could not believe how one-sided this article is, not to mention remedial and poorly written. I realize that Zach may well have been the victim in this case, but this article puts a great deal of the blame on the Corps and its training, which is just ludicrous. To imply that it's the Corps' fault that these guys got drunk and got into a fight simply ridiculous. Things like this happen, more often outside the corps than in it.
Also, I am truly disheartened at the number of A&M students and alumni who claim that the corps does not deserve respect. I am a proud female member of the Corps of Cadets, and I take my position as "Keeper of the Spirit" and "Guardian of Tradition" very seriously. I have never missed a Silver Taps or Aggie Muster. The only students I ever hear "Howdy" from are my fellow members of the corps. When I say "Howdy" to regular students, I rarely get a reply. When the rest of the students are still sleeping soundly in their cozy beds, we are up training, and we do it because we love this organization. Those fantastic half-time drills that continue to amaze the world are only possible because of the dedication and discipline the corps has taught us. There are so many great life skills that the corps teaches cadets everyday that you can never truly understand unless you are a cadet yourself. The corps does great things for the university and the community (Ross Volunteers, March to the Brazos, Silver Taps Buglers, Fightin' Texas Aggie Band), and it is unfortunate that some people will allow this event to overshadow all those things. I seriously hope that people will realize how opinionated this article is, and not use it, or the unfortunate event, to characterize the corps.
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Trent Seastrunk 01/29/2008 2:18:00 AM
Jessica you are right, the first amendment does give them the right to voice their opinion and whatnot. It also gives me the right to tell the person they are stupid and their argument is dumb. I'm sorry if you're offended by my passionate argument.
I can't speak for everyone that has been posting, but personally, I'm focused on the result the fight had on Zach and the lack of legal action taken to punish the two cadets. Some of you are all too wrapped up with the fight itself and how drunk or sober college students act. We all know that. It's common. What makes this story unique and sickening, is the lack of justice served. I've said it over and over, the injustice is what makes this situation so awful. I'm not saying Texas A&M is bad because it's full of aggressive cadets that will beat you up. I'm not saying that at all, nor do i believe that. I am saying that Texas A&M and Brazos County is bad because they suddenly and mysteriously dismissed this case and swept it under the rug. Which denied it from getting the attention and result that the Corcorans deserve.
-Trent Seastrunk
Baylor University
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J. White 01/29/2008 2:01:00 AM
This seems to be a nice piece of yellow journalism to bolster advertisement revenue in your paper.
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Trent Seastrunk 01/29/2008 2:00:00 AM
First of all, you're one to talk about how someone signs their name, "Nate the Snake". Am I supposed to take you seriously with a name like that?
As far as me referring to you as an idiot, you've earned that name with your ridiculous argument. Perhaps I'd treat you with more respect had you made a bad argument with a more petty situation, but this is someone's life we're talking about. Zach is permanently injured and I cannot stress that enough, which is why your argument is ridiculous.
"If he wasn't seriously hurt, would there be an issue at all?"
Probably not, that's the point. Again, he IS seriously hurt, whether it was intentious or not, that's the result, and the justice system in Brazos County and A&M was completely neglegent.
"The family wants their definition of justice, not a compromise. All we have heard is their side of the story."
No, the family wants justice as promised to them by the legal system, and they have the right to pursue that. You're right, we have only heard one side of the story because A&M and Brazos County won't present their side. The case was suddenly and mysteriously dismissed. They are obviously hiding something and it doesn't take a genius to figure it out.
"Perhaps they are seeking civil restitution and wants more money."
Dude, if that was the case, they would have taken the 50 grand. If that was the case, Zach wouldn't have made a big deal about seeing one of the cadets at the rec. Put pieces together, Nate. Your assumptions don't make sense.
"I know of a lot of fights that end with broken skulls, broken bones, permanent disabilities and loss of life."
Ok, I do too, and the assailants all got the fair punishment they deserved. They didn't get a slap on the wrist and get the big issues swept under the rug, which is why this entire situation of injustice is so ridiculous.
"I just don't think you can say that these guys were trying to cause permanent physical harm to this guy."
I agree. The cadets didn't have a plan in mind to produce the given result, but again, that's not the point. It STILL happened, and they STILL need to be punished accordingly. I believe they didn't want to permanently damage Zach the way they did, they just wanted to beat him up pretty bad. However, their intentions don't mean anything in this case, only the result (Zach's eye damage) and lack of result (sudden/mysterious dismissal of the case).
My point is, regardless of who threw the first punch or anything like that, the result is still the same, and this case didn't even get its chance in court. I mean, if the judge were to rule in favor of the cadets and they didn't get punished, that's one thing. But this case didn't even get that chance.
-Trent Seastrunk
Baylor University
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billy 01/29/2008 1:48:00 AM
Grant = 6'4 245lbs 5% bodyfat Eddie = 5'9 buck seventy five if lucky
snake what happens when they go toe to toe? and Grant does not stop?
assault you dipshit
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Jessica Cunningham 01/29/2008 1:28:00 AM
I am a senior female in the Corps of Cadets at Texas A&M, but this is not my first school. I have gone to the #1 community college in the country, taken classes at NYU, Spent at year at a professional school in Providence RI, and spent a term in classes at Harvard University. I also grew up in NYC and between the above list and my younger haunts have seen and or been involved in many many fights. I have seen drunk fights and sober ones, vengeance raw and pridefully stupid. For an emergency room Dr. to say that the serious injuries sustained by Zach to not be from a "fight" is ludicrous I have watched a man die from a stupid fight that started over who makes a better shot one bar or another...and the man who was standing at the end had no intention of inflicting any serious harm things just go out of control. I have seen plenty of fights and drunk fights are generally the worst cause your brain isn't working fast enough to keep up with the stupid things you mouth is saying or noticing exactly how hard you punches are being thrown.
That being said I have seen more fights at almost every other college or university I have been at than those here in College Station. The amount of serious violence is just awe inspiringly low.
I am not saying we are a perfect university where nothing ever goes wrong but for Pete's sake take a look at us compared to other universities our size around the country. Do things go wrong? Yup! Do young independent drunk stressed out students act stupid? YUP!! Every damn time they go out. But should an entire university or organization be blamed for a couple people acting in bad form? NO! Might there have been a cover up of some kind? Maybe. Might this also be an issue of way too many lawyers and politicians doing the legal hide and seek BS that happens all too often leaving the truth completely hidden? Yup. And that goes for everyone being left in the dark not just the victim. Lawyers have a tendency to hide everything they can even if it makes the innocent look guilty, especially on college campuses.
I have seen more community, kindness, understanding, and openness here at A&M than anywhere else in the country. I am proud to call my self an Aggie and proud to where my ring. Any person who relinquishes hundreds of years of history and honor and tradition because one person or group screwed the pouch doesn't understand the reason he was supposed to be wearing the ring to begin with.
And as for the people on here who enjoy calling other people stupid or mean or anything else...First amendment not only gives them the right to say whatever they want but you to not read or listen to it. There for say your opinion and feel free to agree or disagree but stop trying to insult others into agreeing with you.
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Nate the Snake 01/29/2008 1:13:00 AM
Dear Trent Seastrunk, Baylor University:
First of all, again thank you for your commentary. You make cogent and intelligent arguments that we have come to expect from the fine institution that is Baylor University. Seriously, who signs their name like that? Are you a school official?
At any rate, I am glad to see that you have the maturity to discuss this subject without reverting to childish name calling.
Did I say anything about Zach deserving to walk around with a serious medical disability? No. I feel sorry for the guy. I sincerely wish the whole incident never happened. You are focusing on the fact that Zach came away with a disability. If he wasn't seriously hurt, would there be an issue at all? The family wants their definition of justice, not a compromise. All we have heard is their side of the story. Therefore, we can't really decide why the university and the local DA's office is acting the way they are acting. It takes a little bit of maturity to realize that there are two sides to every story and that you shouldn't come to judgement before listening to both sides.
It seems from this story that the cadets and their families tried to make some restitution and it was refused. The article intimates that Zach's family only had the purest of intentions with this refusal, maybe there is more to the story. Perhaps they are seeking civil restitution and wants more money. Or perhaps they truly only seeking justice. Again, if it were my kids these two cadets beat up, I might just break down and take the law into my own hands.
I know of a lot of fights that end with broken skulls, broken bones, permanent disabilities and loss of life. Just take a quick look at the causes of death in the Harris County Medical Examiner's office. Granted it usually involves a weapon. Does it take a pretty severe beating to produce facial fractures? Yes. I think you are really only concentrating on the results of the fight, which I am really talking about only peripherally. I just don't think you can say that these guys were trying to cause permanent physical harm to this guy. I truly believe they were just trying to teach him a lesson or 'kick his ass.' Things can quickly go too far in a fight and even an untrained fighter could easily kill someone with there bare hands, life is very fragile, enjoy it.
Nate the Snake,
School of Hard Knocks
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Longcat 01/29/2008 12:55:00 AM
~90% of these comments are irrelevant, stop having opinions.
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David Juel 01/28/2008 11:33:00 PM
I am a senior in the Corps of Cadets, I have heard my share of nightmarish stories, conspiracy theories, and harsh comments made at the expense of the Corps and my university. Every university has its share of skeletons, I believe that A&M and specifically the Corps are under the spotlight most often because we are a unique institution. There are maybe 2-3 schools in the nation that have a military organization but are not an outright military academy. I know that you cannot ask for the Corps' name to be separated from the actions of its cadets. Everyone is told that just by joining you carry a legacy and a name that you must protect. Quite frankly the two cadets in the story and the ones listed year by year above have failed us greatly and drug our name through the dirt. They are not the first and I wish I could say the would be the last, but I can say beyond a shadow of a doubt that my time here was not ill served. The "shit list" above would pale in comparison If you made a similar bulleted list of the corps' accomplishments, the leaders it has produced, and the overall positive impact it has had on the lives of countless numbers who have passed through its program. In my time here me and my buddies have raised thousands of dollars for the March of Dimes donated to us on the streets of Houston, I have helped change a sports arena into a shelter for Katrina victims, and several other examples of service to the community. Of course most of those stories don't make good news or pull 77 comments on one article. If you saw a headline detailing another triumph of the corps you would give little consideration and turn the page. Theres nothing wrong with that we don't care about making the news as some kind of "heroes." But don't make us out to be racist he-man woman haters that go around beating on each-other because we have nothing better to do. ~David Juel Class of '08
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Trent Seastrunk 01/28/2008 11:23:00 PM
Oh, and I almost forgot about Patti up there at comment 23.
"Zach can't get over it and get on with his life."
How well would you be able to get on with your life if you only had 70% movement of your eye, and you had to go have surgery after surgery because it was so messed up? Not to mention the two guys that did this to you never got anything resembling a penalty and are back at school. That's the stupidest thing I've ever heard, Patti. It's time to act like an adult.
-Trent Seastrunk
Baylor University
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Trent Seastrunk 01/28/2008 11:12:00 PM
"Nate the Snake" you're an idiot.
"Do these two guys deserve to have their lives destroyed over a drunk fight? I don't think so."
Did Zach deserve to have a messed up eye for the rest of his life?? I don't think so, but he's stuck with it no matter what. The family is not trying to "DESTROY" the cadets' lives, they just want justice. There is a punishment out there for the crime those cadets committed. Just like if you're caught speeding: you get a ticket, pay a fine, insurance fees go up, and it's on your driving record. That is the consequence for getting a speeding ticket. I'm not positive what the consequence is for what the cadets did, but I am positive there is one, and I'm positive it hasn't even been mentioned seriously yet.
"They tried to make restitution, and family refused."
Yeah, because it is not the proper punishment. Zach didn't get off easy with his eye, why should the cadets get off easy?
"I don't think it was their intent to cause serious bodily harm to this guy, at least I hope not."
Once, again Nate, you're an IDIOT. How many fights do you know of that end with the injury Zach has sustained?? Yeah, you're right buddy, their intent was not to cause serious bodily harm. WOW you are so dumb.
-Trent Seastrunk
Baylor University
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Jason 01/28/2008 8:11:00 PM
"According to Mask, both Helle and Ramirez lost weight and allowed their grades to drop after the fight. They endured constant anxiety, Mask says, from the fear of criminal prosecution and punishment from the university."
Could it be that the reason these men lost weight, and their grades declined was due to the fact they felt guilty for their actions, hence they are guilty of assault?
I'm not in the corps, but have many friends that were. Corps members do tend to be more aggressive, and I keep clear of ones I don't know.
J
Fightin Aggie Class of 2009
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Nate the Snake 01/28/2008 4:01:00 PM
Dear Wes,
Thank you for your thoughtful and insightful commentary. No in fact I would not like it if someone beat my ass. That was the point of my earlier postings. I don't want to get into a fight with anyone, including you.
In case it involved too much deduction for you, I will break it down so that I don't have to rely on your obviously superior reading comprehesion.
My theses:
1) Don't get into fights
2) Avoid situations where you would get into fights
3) Don't get drunk around people you don't know
4) Don't talk trash to people you don't know (especially if it is two huge dudes)
5) If you get into a fight, fight dirty so as to win (which includes running away)
I am not addressing the true 'point' of this article. I am addressing the root cause of the original confrontation. The point of this article is that one side of the story has been told. The University refuses to tell its side of the story for legal reasons. The problems that have come about regarding the punishment stem from the root cause of the original confrontation. I think Becky has hit the nail on the head. The family of this poor guy wants to DESTROY the lives of these two young men who got into a drunk fight with their son. They tried to make restitution, and family refused. I'm not saying I wouldn't behave in exactly the same manner as the family, but you are going to have a real difficult time getting these two guys to serve hard prison sentences when it is still in question as to who threw the first punch. Do these two guys deserve to have their lives destroyed over a drunk fight? I don't think so. Make no mistake getting kicked out of a univeristy (and the corps) for violence would destroy these young men's lives. They would not be admitted to another college and would find it difficult to get work. Did they take the fight to far? Probably so, but I tell you it is tough to maintain self control once somebody hits you in the face and I don't think it was their intent to cause serious bodily harm to this guy, at least I hope not.
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nchouston 01/28/2008 3:58:00 PM
This is just despicable. Man, I hate it when justice is not served. If A&M admins and/or donors were worried about tarnishing the A&M name, they should not have caved in under pressure to sweep this under the rug. Hiding things never works out in the long run. Just ask those former Enron execs.
And those comments from the lawyer Brown were heartless - transfer to another school.
And Mask, "I really hope the Corcoran family would get counseling," "Everyone needs to just walk away."
What a bastard. Well I guess you have to be a bastard lawyer sometimes, when people pay you a lot of money to win a case.
I hope the legal system will finally have the balls to do what A&M admins and the Corp did not do. And hopefully it is something more than probation. Hope you recover Zach and hoping for karma too...
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Justin 01/27/2008 5:52:00 PM
This is the type of story Americans fear: a look at a corrupt legal system. If you read between the lines it sounds like Brown will let the Corcorans know what went down after the statute of limitations have expired. It sounds like Zach and family aren't interested in money, but they should probably sue A&M for the simple fact that they would be able to depose the parties involved under oath.
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sandra 01/27/2008 5:45:00 PM
It really doesn't matter what happened, University or DA blunder, it just needs to be fixed. Zach and the Corcorans need to get their day in court. Justice was not served here. Let a jury decide what needs to happen. That is the American way.
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cd 01/27/2008 2:56:00 PM
i think it's obvious that a big money donor stepped in at some time. universities always buckle if one of their big donors threatens to stop donating. it would be interesting to try and find out who that big donor is. look for relationships to the 2 boys. the guy probably comes from the same home town or is related somehow.
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wes 01/26/2008 11:28:00 PM
nate the snake maybe you would like it if someone beat your ass. You are a stupid piece of shit and need a dose of reality
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Kevin 01/26/2008 11:22:00 PM
Hey guys, don't make the Aggie jokes a reality. These 2 guys need to be kicked out of the Corps and sent to "fight" with the real soldiers. See how well their sorry asses would do among the Marines (ask dove)!! Leave the good men in the Corps alone. They did not smash Zach's face in, and probably don't think much of this situation. Anyone with half a brain (no pun intended), understands this was more than a fight, it was an assault. Call it what it is, and prosecute it as such. No reasonable person holds the students of A&M or the Corps responsible for this act. The system is not perfect and sweeping it under the rug, and dismissing the case, makes the University system and judicial system look bad. We are all above that..KM
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mark 01/26/2008 10:42:00 PM
Whether you like A&M, hate A&M, or just don't care one way or another, you have look at the way this case played out and decide for yourself. First charges were pressed, then not enforced. Then Brazos County pressed charges, prepared a case, then right before trial it was dismissed "in the interest of justice." HEY PEOPLE, what is going on here. What does that mean??? I'm sure the Corcorans and a lot of other people whould like that explained to them. Blake you explained the situation well for your brother and family, good for you. Your parents must be proud of your unbiased, truthful stand. Let's put aside our feelings for the Corps, the school and the criminal justice system, and try to figure this out for Zach's sake. It's never to late to right a wrong.
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Bubba 01/26/2008 10:06:00 PM
McBride is the poster child for dumbf*ck Aggies. "liable story" Good gawd almighty McBride are you really a Grau8 of ATM? What a freaking Idiot. I can imagine what Patti Cake looks like!
McBride use dictionary.com the next time you use words with multiple syllables. Why you can even right click on the cute little red dots to figure out how to look less like a dumazz!
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william 01/26/2008 9:26:00 PM
As the father of sons in the military, and a former Aggie, I find this case discusting and shameful. Those 2 boys are not representative of my school. If the Corps wants to continue with the perception of excellence, like it once was, the Administration and DA need to stand up and see they are punished appropriately. Let's not give A&M a blackeye as well.
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ron 01/26/2008 8:16:00 PM
Come on folks..This isn't a story about degrading the Aggies or the majority of the Corps of Cadets. It is a story how the administration of the University AND the Brazos County criminal justice system dropped the ball. Simply put "it is what it is"!! What a shame the Corcorans have had to spend so much money and emotional trama bringing it to light. I would hope that if any reason prevails, the court system has to take another look at this case.
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laura 01/26/2008 6:09:00 PM
I think Blake probably has the story straight! Photo 6 on the slide show, shows bruising to the neck where he was probably being held. Those pictures taken in the ER reflects serious trama to the face and neck. Turning blue is not good!!. I think I would throw up too, drunk or not, with that kind of trama to my head. This case seriously needs to go to court!!
