Draconia Tactics at The Aurora Mall

[Reenster]

It seems like things are just falling apart. I just got a phone call from my son
(28 years old) and he was well beyond angry. This is the general jist of the story.

My son and his girl friend(also 28) were out spending some money after recieving their income tax return and went to the Aurora Mall. This proved not to be a wise choice. My son was detained by several mall personnel for the unlikely crime of wearing a "Yes We Cannibis" tee shirt. I understand that my son can become loud especially when he is being harassed and one way or another the cops arrived. The police threatened him with arrest for trespassing and when he pointed out that he made purchases and no one asked him to leave, they said how about disturbing the peace.

When it became apparent that this was not going to be resolved immediately, he just said, "do what ever you are going to do so I can get out of here". They banned him from the mall for a year (took his picture), but I am unsure what the actual violation was. Apparently being a card caring patient makes no difference to the Aurora police. There are no postings that I know of that indicate that wearing a shirt with the word Cannabis on it is somehow not allowed, however, I doubt that could be legal. I know I get alot of marijuana logo stuff from Spencer's Gifts there.

I am bouncing between thinking he should get an attorney or maybe a few hundred people with Marijuana shirts would get the point across. Just wanted to let ya'all know Refer Madness is alive and well in Aurora. At least they did not call out the national guard.:smokin:

[Justabloke]

The AM has had LOTS of bad press from a baby getting stuck in the escalator to down right racism. I have not been (nor will I be) to the AM in a long, LONG time. I choose not to spend my money there because of the crap they pull. Plus, it takes tax money away from the Aurora outpost of the Gestapo.

But if hundreds of us did show up they may just call out the National Guard! lol We simply can't have "drug addicts" spending their money at the local mall because we know a "pot head's" money just isn't as good as a non-pot head's.

From what I've been told...Rob Corry will represent you free of charge if you are participating in civil disobedience event like 420 and other events. Miguel would know better tho.


j

[Adamkadmon]

That has lawsuit written all over it. Purchases made? So they have receipts showing they were just there shopping. This is a first amendment issue. I would tell your son to talk to an attorney, make the mall pay for their ignorance, literally.
:jointsmile:

[TurboALLWD]

I agree that a lawsuit could possibly be made over this. I have a good friend in the clothing business that can custom make t-shirts. He would be all for the cause and probably not charge much at all over cost. This guy has been helping the community out for many years and would be more than happy to help on this even if only a few were needed.

[StoneyJake]

I was stopped by mail security minutes after making my first purchase at the Aurora mail. I was planing to spend some money.
The security guard that stopped me wouldnt tell me what the problem was for about 5 minutes(until back up could show up..). The next thing I know I am surrounded by police and mail security. They said "you have to turn your shirt inside out, take it off, or leave the mail." I did not refuse to do any of those thing. I said as loud as I could without yelling "So you guys are harassing me for wearing a cannabis shirt when I came here to spend money?" They told me to remove my shirt or turn in inside out. I said "Why? So everyone can see a backwards faded marijuana leaf on my chest?" again being as loud as I could without yelling.
At this point the crowd started to gather and watch. I told them I wanted to speak to a manager about this because my rights are being violated. The mail director was right there and we began to talk like adults about this. He informed me that my shirt is considered offensive to some people so they do not allow any cannabis related attire on mail grounds. I pointed out that there are many store in the mail that sell attire such as this and I made the comment that marijuana is legal for medical users in our state, its always on the news and there is no reason for anyone to be offended by a marijuana leaf on my shirt.
At this point one of the police officers became annoyed and said "its not legal, ha" looking directly at me as he said it in a loud voice. I stopped speaking to the directer of the mail and informed the police officer that it is legal for medical use in our state and I voted on it. I then went back to speaking with the directer of the mail. I told him that they are violating my constitutional rights, when I hear the same police officer say "NO we arent" again looking directly at me. I turned and replied "yes you are, I have the right to wear what ever shirts I want to in this country". He then said "Dont talk to me, Im not talking to you"
I said "well your lookin right at me and speaking very loud"
he says "no I was talking to my fellow officer and you better start cooperating or you will be placed under arrest for trespassing"
I replied "so I am not aloud to reply to people when they are speaking to me"

They they said I was under arrest for trespassing...they brought me to the police station as I spoke very loud of the injustice going on so everyone in the mail could hear it.
I asked the police about the fact that I havent done anything wrong and was never asked to leave the mail so how could I be trespassing? he said "well then Ill just charge you for disorderly conduct"
I told him that he cant just charge me for what ever he wants, thats not how things work. I then asked why he is trying to start a fight with me
he replied "If I was trying to start a fight with you, you would be in the hospital"

I was done at that point and pretty sure I was going to jail or going to get a ticket. I was informed that I was being banned from the mail for one year and then was asked to sign a piece of paper showing that I understood. Under the offenses they listed trespassing.
Then they let me go with no charges... I was escorted to my vehicle

I have been wearing marijuana related tee shirts half my life and have never been harassed for it. It was obvious that one of the police officers on seen have a major prejudice against marijuana smokers.


edit:sorry for the novel, Its only been a day so I still am pretty worked up. Hard for me to believe that this kinda treatment is legal.....

[telephone]

After a brief Google search. It does appear that in Colorado you might have a case regarding mall owners from stopping nonviolent political free speech.

There is some info here:

Law of the Mall (http://www.davelippman.com/LawoftheMall.html)

[throatstick]

I was stopped by mail security minutes after making my first purchase at the Aurora mail. I was planing to spend some money.
The security guard that stopped me wouldnt tell me what the problem was for about 5 minutes(until back up could show up..). The next thing I know I am surrounded by police and mail security. They said "you have to turn your shirt inside out, take it off, or leave the mail." I did not refuse to do any of those thing. I said as loud as I could without yelling "So you guys are harassing me for wearing a cannabis shirt when I came here to spend money?" They told me to remove my shirt or turn in inside out. I said "Why? So everyone can see a backwards faded marijuana leaf on my chest?" again being as loud as I could without yelling.
At this point the crowd started to gather and watch. I told them I wanted to speak to a manager about this because my rights are being violated. The mail director was right there and we began to talk like adults about this. He informed me that my shirt is considered offensive to some people so they do not allow any cannabis related attire on mail grounds. I pointed out that there are many store in the mail that sell attire such as this and I made the comment that marijuana is legal for medical users in our state, its always on the news and there is no reason for anyone to be offended by a marijuana leaf on my shirt.
At this point one of the police officers became annoyed and said "its not legal, ha" looking directly at me as he said it in a loud voice. I stopped speaking to the directer of the mail and informed the police officer that it is legal for medical use in our state and I voted on it. I then went back to speaking with the directer of the mail. I told him that they are violating my constitutional rights, when I hear the same police officer say "NO we arent" again looking directly at me. I turned and replied "yes you are, I have the right to wear what ever shirts I want to in this country". He then said "Dont talk to me, Im not talking to you"
I said "well your lookin right at me and speaking very loud"
he says "no I was talking to my fellow officer and you better start cooperating or you will be placed under arrest for trespassing"
I replied "so I am not aloud to reply to people when they are speaking to me"

They they said I was under arrest for trespassing...they brought me to the police station as I spoke very loud of the injustice going on so everyone in the mail could hear it.
I asked the police about the fact that I havent done anything wrong and was never asked to leave the mail so how could I be trespassing? he said "well then Ill just charge you for disorderly conduct"
I told him that he cant just charge me for what ever he wants, thats not how things work. I then asked why he is trying to start a fight with me
he replied "If I was trying to start a fight with you, you would be in the hospital"

I was done at that point and pretty sure I was going to jail or going to get a ticket. I was informed that I was being banned from the mail for one year and then was asked to sign a piece of paper showing that I understood. Under the offenses they listed trespassing.
Then they let me go with no charges... I was escorted to my vehicle

I have been wearing marijuana related tee shirts half my life and have never been harassed for it. It was obvious that one of the police officers on seen have a major prejudice against marijuana smokers.


edit:sorry for the novel, Its only been a day so I still am pretty worked up. Hard for me to believe that this kinda treatment is legal.....

these types of cops are going to regret how they treat people 1 day......

[CovertCarpenter]

...I really don't know what to say about this one, except for yes, get a sympathetic attorney, and VOTE WITH YOUR DOLLARS. Let the mall administration, as well as every single business in it know that you will NOT be spending any more of your money there until you have recieved a full apology. Should this not be forthcoming, I would take your money elsewhere permanently.

And yes, this IS A FREE SPEECH ISSUE. I am up here in Canada where we do NOT have the protections of the First Amendment... but I would be talking to a lawyer immediately should this have happened to me.

KEEP UP THE GOOD FIGHT!

[StoneyJake]

"Colorado: A city's financial support of a shopping mall, including its operation of a police substation inside the mall, combined with the range of activities permitted in the mall, made it a latter-day public forum sufficient to trigger the Colorado Constitution's free-speech clause, according to the state's highest court. This clause prevented the owners of the mall from excluding citizens involved in nonviolent political speech. (Bock v. Westminster Mall Co.)"

Thats all I needed to see...... I am going to contact a lawyer first thing in the morning (monday).

thanks for that link telephone

[denverbear]

maybe we should get some nice t-shirts and have a big shopping spree at the mall (buying stuff) so that they can call out the national guard to arrest a couple of hundred people so that they understand they are breaking the law trying to tell us what we can 't wear in public.....did you get any names..officers etc. as I believe a e-mail campain should start asap..and get the tv stations involved also....lets shove this nonsense back at them in Aurora and prove we can be legal and stand up for our rights....this is not communist country yet..

[lampost]

"Colorado: A city's financial support of a shopping mall, including its operation of a police substation inside the mall, combined with the range of activities permitted in the mall, made it a latter-day public forum sufficient to trigger the Colorado Constitution's free-speech clause, according to the state's highest court. This clause prevented the owners of the mall from excluding citizens involved in nonviolent political speech. (Bock v. Westminster Mall Co.)"

Thats all I needed to see...... I am going to contact a lawyer first thing in the morning (monday).

thanks for that link telephone

Thank you for fighting this! Make that cop think twice about being such a douche!
That guy sounds like scum of the earth to me! He obviously is one of those guys who hides behind his badge as he had to resort to threats when he realized he couldn't hang in an argument with you..... sad guy for sure!!

Good luck! Let us know what happens... I'm glad you weren't arrested for this and it was very cool that you stood up for your rights as you did!

[StoneyJake]

LOL
just noticed I typed mail every time I meant to type mall.... My fingers go into auto pilot sometimes when I get worked up...Now I cant edit it.
embarrassing
DOH!

[TurboALLWD]

Contact more than one lawyer to make sure you're not getting bullshit advice. See if it would be a good idea to get a few or a bunch of us down there so we can get banned as well! I don't give a shit if I get banned, I'll never shop there strictly because of this! Like I said, I can supply the tshirts(not out of pocket ofcourse) and I could have mine made with some extra wording to the effects of I made the T's, maybe they'd give me special treatment for it. :D I'm down to make some money on a lawsuit, maybe this could help fund the fight in court against hb1284. I'd donate half of my settlement and I bet some other patients wouldn't mind letting go some of theirs.

[HighPopalorum]

Here's some guidelines for interacting with the cops.

Think carefully about your words, movement, body language, and emotions.
Don't get into an argument with the police.
Remember, anything you say or do can be used against you.
Keep your hands where the police can see them.
Don't run. Don't touch any police officer.
Don't resist even if you believe you are innocent.
Don't complain on the scene or tell the police they're wrong or that you're going to file a complaint.
Do not make any statements regarding the incident.
Ask for a lawyer immediately upon your arrest.
Remember officers' badge & patrol car numbers.
Write down everything you remember ASAP.
Try to find witnesses and their names and phone numbers.
If you are injured, take photographs of the injuries as soon as possible, but make sure you seek medical attention first.

[Reenster]

That's my boy :thumbsup: Jake's girl friend tried to tell one of the cops that Jake was an activist, that he felt strongly about this and that this would not be the end of it.

Thanks for the support, I have been wearing cannabis logo type items for 40 years here and there, never have I heard such a thing. Today at the local Dairy Queen I saw a dad come in with a softball uniform on. The sponser of the team was a medical marijuana dispensary. That seems really main stream to me. Wonder if the mall would have banned him and his two kids?

[throatstick]

Here's some guidelines for interacting with the cops.

Think carefully about your words, movement, body language, and emotions.
Don't get into an argument with the police.
Remember, anything you say or do can be used against you.
Keep your hands where the police can see them.
Don't run. Don't touch any police officer.
Don't resist even if you believe you are innocent.
Don't complain on the scene or tell the police they're wrong or that you're going to file a complaint.
Do not make any statements regarding the incident.
Ask for a lawyer immediately upon your arrest.
Remember officers' badge & patrol car numbers.
Write down everything you remember ASAP.
Try to find witnesses and their names and phone numbers.
If you are injured, take photographs of the injuries as soon as possible, but make sure you seek medical attention first.

exactly i agree i say be the best little slave you can be. if you brown nose just enough they might let you be a narc one day...

[HighPopalorum]

Here's some guidelines for interacting with the cops.

Think carefully about your words, movement, body language, and emotions.
Don't get into an argument with the police.
Remember, anything you say or do can be used against you.
Keep your hands where the police can see them.
Don't run. Don't touch any police officer.
Don't resist even if you believe you are innocent.
Don't complain on the scene or tell the police they're wrong or that you're going to file a complaint.
Do not make any statements regarding the incident.
Ask for a lawyer immediately upon your arrest.
Remember officers' badge & patrol car numbers.
Write down everything you remember ASAP.
Try to find witnesses and their names and phone numbers.
If you are injured, take photographs of the injuries as soon as possible, but make sure you seek medical attention first.


exactly i agree i say be the best little slave you can be. if you brown nose just enough they might let you be a narc one day...

I'm not a slave. I'm an adult. That language is taken verbatim from the ACLU bust card in my wallet. Millions of other Americans carry the same one. You call it brown nosing; I call it knowing and aggressively protecting my rights.

[Adamkadmon]

exactly i agree i say be the best little slave you can be. if you brown nose just enough they might let you be a narc one day...


Yep, thanks for the advice once again highpop....:jointsmile:


I know you and the ACLU have the best intentions highpop, but we shouldn't need guidelines for dealing with our employees that carefully. Let's stop promoting the "sheeple" mindset.


Stoneyjake, please keep us updated. I will be writing a letter letting the Aurora Mall know I will be organizing as many people as I can to boycott them as well, in a show of support.

[HighPopalorum]

I know you and the ACLU have the best intentions highpop, but we shouldn't need guidelines for dealing with our employees that carefully. Let's stop promoting the "sheeple" mindset.

:jointsmile:

You know little of the ACLU if you think they are promoting a "sheeple" mindset regarding civil liberties and police misconduct. That is laughable.

[Adamkadmon]

:jointsmile:

You know little of the ACLU if you think they are promoting a "sheeple" mindset regarding civil liberties and police misconduct. That is laughable.


No, no, my point is that little tidbit of info is great but it's like treating the symptoms instead of the disease itself. You posted something someone else thought up, awesome, now what are you gonna DO about this rising police state culture?
:thumbsup:

[Dorje113]

No, no, my point is that little tidbit of info is great but it's like treating the symptoms instead of the disease itself. You posted something someone else thought up, awesome, now what are you gonna DO about this rising police state culture?
:thumbsup:

Direct confrontation with the police isn't going to help though.

I completely agree with highpop, make your life easier and don't argue with cops. Agree with them, apologize, and save yourself a lot of hassle and a lot of money. I don't have time to argue or try to prove myself right, especially when dealing with cops... Cops are tools for the most part and aren't interested in anything you have to say, unless it's to incriminate yourself. The less said the better.

[lampost]

I agree that it's wise to act how Highpopalarum suggested IF YOU'VE DONE SOMETHING WRONG. However, if I've done nothing wrong and am accosted like this then sure as hell I'm going to stick up for myself a little bit!! You can stick up for yourself a little bit and be OK as StoneyJake has shown us! But it's a fine line dealing with the cops and you're always risking their retribution...

Now, if he had a 1/4 in his pocket then I'd tell him to act exactly as you suggested. But there's a lot of misinformation out there. If you get pulled over carrying and refuse to answer questions from the police or consent to a search then you're just asking for it!! Really the best way to deal with the cops in a traffic stop is to have your story straight, be very polite and calm, and have any herb vacuum-sealed and stored in a very difficult to find location. This way, if you do arouse suspicion and get searched you have a minimal chance of still getting away. However, if you stonewall the cops and you're carrying... they're going to know and they'll spend all afternoon searching your car until they find something!!

I'm not sure how the ACLU says you should act in a traffic stop now, but I think there's a lot of misleading info out there!

Peace,LP

[HighPopalorum]

I'm not sure how the ACLU says you should act in a traffic stop now, but I think there's a lot of misleading info out there!


Funny you ask! Allow me to provide the link (http://www.aclu.org/racial-justice/know-your-rights-bustcard) to the ACLU's downloadable bust card. It covers exactly what you should do in your car, at home and in general.

EDIT: What the hell, here's the entire thing. You can still follow the link if you want the wallet-sized card.

Know Your Rights: What To Do If Youâ??re Stopped By The Police (Bust Card)

We all recognize the need for effective law enforcement, but we should also understand our own rights and responsibilities â?? especially in our relationships with the police. Everyone, including minors, has the right to courteous and respectful police treatment. If your rights are violated, don't try to deal with the situation at the scene. You can talk to a lawyer afterwards, or file a complaint with the Internal Affairs or Civilian Complaint Board.

Think carefully about your words, movement, body language, and emotions.
Don't get into an argument with the police.
Remember, anything you say or do can be used against you.
Keep your hands where the police can see them.
Don't run. Don't touch any police officer.
Don't resist even if you believe you are innocent.
Don't complain on the scene or tell the police they're wrong or that you're going to file a complaint.
Do not make any statements regarding the incident.
Ask for a lawyer immediately upon your arrest.
Remember officers' badge & patrol car numbers.
Write down everything you remember ASAP.
Try to find witnesses and their names and phone numbers.
If you are injured, take photographs of the injuries as soon as possible, but make sure you seek medical attention first.

If you feel your rights have been violated, file a written complaint with police department's internal affairs division or civilian board, or call the ACLU hotline, 1-877-634-5454.

What you say to the police is always important. What you say can be used against you, and it can give the police an excuse to arrest you, especially if you bad-mouth a police officer.

You must show your driver's license and registration when stopped in a car. Otherwise, you don't have to answer any questions if you are detained or arrested, with one important exception. The police may ask for your name if you have been properly detained, and you can be arrested in some states for refusing to give it. If you reasonably fear that your name is incriminating, you can claim the right to remain silent, which may be a defense in case you are arrested anyway.

You don't have to consent to any search of yourself, your car or your house. If you DO consent to a search, it can affect your rights later in court. If the police say they have a search warrant, ASK TO SEE IT.

Do not interfere with, or obstruct the police â?? you can be arrested for it.

IF YOU ARE STOPPED FOR QUESTIONING
It's not a crime to refuse to answer questions, but refusing to answer might make the police suspicious about you. If you are asked to identify yourself, see paragraph 2 above.
Police may "pat-down" your clothing if they suspect a concealed weapon. Don't physically resist, but make it clear that you don't consent to any further search.
Ask if you are under arrest. If you are, you have a right to know why.
Don't bad-mouth the police officer or run away, even if you believe what is happening is unreasonable. That could lead to your arrest.

IF YOU'RE STOPPED IN YOUR CAR
Upon request, show them your driver's license, registration, and proof of insurance. In certain cases, your car can be searched without a warrant as long as the police have probable cause. To protect yourself later, you should make it clear that you do not consent to a search. It is not lawful for police to arrest you simply for refusing to consent to a search.
If you're given a ticket, you should sign it; otherwise you can be arrested. You can always fight the case in court later.
If you're suspected of drunk driving (DWI) and refuse to take a blood, urine or breath test, your driver's license may be suspended.

IF YOU'RE ARRESTED OR TAKEN TO A POLICE STATION
You have the right to remain silent and to talk to a lawyer before you talk to the police. Tell the police nothing except your name and address. Don't give any explanations, excuses or stories. You can make your defense later, in court, based on what you and your lawyer decide is best.
Ask to see a lawyer immediately. If you can't pay for a lawyer, you have a right to a free one, and should ask the police how the lawyer can be contacted. Don't say anything without a lawyer.
Within a reasonable time after your arrest, or booking, you have the right to make a local phone call: to a lawyer, bail bondsman, a relative or any other person. The police may not listen to the call to the lawyer.
Sometimes you can be released without bail, or have bail lowered. Have your lawyer ask the judge about this possibility. You must be taken before the judge on the next court day after arrest.
Do not make any decisions in your case until you have talked with a lawyer.

IN YOUR HOME
If the police knock and ask to enter your home, you don't have to admit them unless they have a warrant signed by a judge.
However, in some emergency situations (like when a person is screaming for help inside, or when the police are chasing someone) officers are allowed to enter and search your home without a warrant.
If you are arrested, the police can search you and the area close by. If you are in a building, "close by" usually means just the room you are in.

[Zedleppelin]

Direct confrontation with the police isn't going to help though.

I completely agree with highpop, make your life easier and don't argue with cops. Agree with them, apologize, and save yourself a lot of hassle and a lot of money. I don't have time to argue or try to prove myself right, especially when dealing with cops... Cops are tools for the most part and aren't interested in anything you have to say, unless it's to incriminate yourself. The less said the better.

What are you saying??? NEVER agree with them!

The best way to handle cops? Shut the fuck up.

Here is the best video on the subject.....
YouTube - Dont Talk to Police (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6wXkI4t7nuc)

[StoneyJake]

Thanks for the support guys. I will be contacting lawyers today when I get off work. I totally agree with not talking to police in a traffic stop. You have to admit this is a little different, my constitutional right were violated. I dont think anyone should let police officers take away their rights. I was mortified when I realized what was going on and acted on adrenaline. lol

I got the name of the police officer yesterday. The people at the mall told me it was a officer Grant Peet that detained me.

[Reenster]

Its obvious that the police over stepped their bounds, its obvious that there is precedents that what the Mall did was a violation of Jake's first amendment rights.

Could the situation been handled smoother, sure, but when you feel something as basic as your constitutional rights have been violated, it's your right and duty to speak up. I would have been hard pressed to act differently under those circumstances.

I am so tired of hearing, "think about the children". A marijuana leaf on a tee shirt will not harm a child. Lies and isolation from real life will harm a child. It's important to let your children know that there are activities that adults can choose but are not acceptable for children. It's important to give your child a strong grasp of you moral views, but you need to let them know that your views are not the only view. Teach them well and they will make informed decisions.

I have emailed the owner of the Aurora Mall Towne Center. I am curious if they support this type of management. Some rules and laws are unjust and civil disobedience is one way to draw attention to them. That is what 420 celebrations are about, hell that was what the original tea party was about.

[Klonzinc]

I'm not a slave. I'm an adult. That language is taken verbatim from the ACLU bust card in my wallet. Millions of other Americans carry the same one. You call it brown nosing; I call it knowing and aggressively protecting my rights.

EXACTLY!!!!!! I call it playing BEATING THEM AT THEIR OWN GAME.

should any lawsuite go forth I would insist the termination of the guards, officers, and mall manager be part of the suite. JMO

[HighPopalorum]

Could the situation been handled smoother, sure, but when you feel something as basic as your constitutional rights have been violated, it's your right and duty to speak up. I would have been hard pressed to act differently under those circumstances.

I would have acted differently as soon as the first police officer arrived. The only words that would have come out of my mouth are: "I do not consent to this search." "Am I free to go?" and "On the advice of counsel, I decline to answer." The Fifth Amendment is there to protect the innocent, not only the guilty; it was a tactically stupid decision to waive it by speaking voluntarily. I haven't much doubt that if Jake does try to bring suit, or if the police decide to file charges, the result will be a poor one for Jake because he talked too much already. Whether you are innocent or guilty, it is always unwise to talk to the police, even if you feel yourself to be innocent or if you feel your rights have been violated. Rob Corry or Brian Vicente or any criminal defense attorney will tell you exactly the same thing.

[denverbear]

I'm not a slave. I'm an adult. That language is taken verbatim from the ACLU bust card in my wallet. Millions of other Americans carry the same one. You call it brown nosing; I call it knowing and aggressively protecting my rights.otherwise known as picking your fights...very good info ..

[cowdog]

Maybe contact the owners of the mall?!?! I bet they don't even know about this and how it was handled.
just a thought
cowdog:)

[Reenster]

I have emailed the owner of the Aurora Mall Towne Center. I am curious if they support this type of management. Some rules and laws are unjust and civil disobedience is one way to draw attention to them. That is what 420 celebrations are about, hell that was what the original tea party was about.

Been very busy this morning, I have also contacted SAFER to ask in their help with a boycot of the mall, I have also emailed an attorney that has history in being interested in these things, and I have a voice mail into the manager of the Aurora Towne Center Mall.

Hopefully I covered all the bases.

[denverbear]

Have you given any thought to contacting the Chief of Police of Aurora..
he should know that his officers violated your cival rights on the clothing you choose to wear....also a letter to the editor of the Denver Post could not hurt either.

[Reenster]

Thanks Denver both great ideas. I played with the thought of contacting the police but I wish to speak to an attorney first.

Sent an email to a local TV station (Not 9news haha)as well. With the public announcement that Aurora is putting up the idea of banning dispensaries to a vote in November makes this even more political.

Wish I could figure out how to make a living in Nederland, maybe when we retire in 6 or so years. I really love my Aurora neighborhood. Lots of wonderful working class people here, but the city politics SUCKS!!

[Adamkadmon]

Direct confrontation with the police isn't going to help though.

I completely agree with highpop, make your life easier and don't argue with cops. Agree with them, apologize, and save yourself a lot of hassle and a lot of money. I don't have time to argue or try to prove myself right, especially when dealing with cops... Cops are tools for the most part and aren't interested in anything you have to say, unless it's to incriminate yourself. The less said the better.

I never said directly confront the cops....my point is this is all reactionary. Of course you should keep a cool head and think when you ARE dealing with cops, my point is we need to start aggressively addressing the root problem that lead to such guidelines in the first place. Assuming, you make an ass of u and ming.

[Justabloke]

Call the mall and its retailers! Tell them you are no longer going to bring your money to them because the mall has caused more than it's share of drama.

When you talk to the retailers...be nice...they didn't do it. They just need to know their business will suffer, yet, again because of the crap Simon pulls.

This (http://www.simon.com/mall/?id=232)is the malls website and their phone number is...(303) 344-4120

Lets stand against them as we would anyone who screws with our rights. (Like Matt Brown/Josh Stanley)

[Justabloke]

LOL Just a afterthought...

We should have Miguel organize a picket outside the mall with everyone wearing "Yes We Cannabis" shirts on. Oooo wouldn't that just piss em off!

j

[Justabloke]

I just talked to Miguel and he is VERY intrested in it. He says he wants to track it down though the APD. Have Jake email me at my business email and I'll make the connection. [email protected]

J

[Justabloke]

Maybe contact the owners of the mall?!?! I bet they don't even know about this and how it was handled.
just a thought
cowdog:)

The Aurora Mall has, longtime, been known for starting drama. This isn't their first time. They have offended MANY different groups of people. I can remember going down to a protest because they were disciminating against black, male, youths. I'm sure Simon Property Group is well aware of how their mall operates and encourages this.

It's our turn now. We must tell them we will not tolorate this type of behaviour!



j

[StoneyJake]

I would have acted differently as soon as the first police officer arrived. The only words that would have come out of my mouth are: "I do not consent to this search." "Am I free to go?" and "On the advice of counsel, I decline to answer." The Fifth Amendment is there to protect the innocent, not only the guilty; it was a tactically stupid decision to waive it by speaking voluntarily. I haven't much doubt that if Jake does try to bring suit, or if the police decide to file charges, the result will be a poor one for Jake because he talked too much already. Whether you are innocent or guilty, it is always unwise to talk to the police, even if you feel yourself to be innocent or if you feel your rights have been violated. Rob Corry or Brian Vicente or any criminal defense attorney will tell you exactly the same thing.

you bring up a search... No marijuana was involved in this.. No basis for stopping me in the first place. I was harassed and I dont think me pointing that out will affect the outcome of this. I was detained but no charges were pressed and I walked away with a one year ban from the aurora TOWN CENTER for wearing a "YES WE CANNABIS" shirt.... Thats really all their is to it. The fact that I was harassed by police is going to be my word vs theirs unless the video has audio.

[StoneyJake]

I just talked to Miguel and he is VERY intrested in it. He says he wants to track it down though the APD. Have Jake email me at my business email and I'll make the connection.

J

LOL
Very nice. Ill shoot you a mail
This is very cool. Thanks for the ideas and support

I thought about calling the police station and putting in a complaint on the officers that were on the sceen. Ill see where this goes

[lampost]

The fact that I was harassed by police is going to be my word vs theirs unless the video has audio.

That's the unfortunate part all too often. And all too often there's not even video.
When you get 2 or more of those pricks on you they will lie and back each other up. It's really a bullshit part of our system that we need to go to great ends to remedy. We have the police car cameras, but I think every cop should personally where a helmet-cam... or even just a frickin' mic! I think people would be appalled at how much they twist little shit to get people in trouble...

I was busted once almost 10 years ago in a neighbor's apartment at school. There were so many sketchy things about the bust, but I couldn't afford a good lawyer at the time!
I was arrested for possession in my neighbor's apartment because he was smoking and the bag was out... so apparently I was in possession too. The cop proved I was smoking (although I hadn't been) by saying, "the suspect had a green tongue, indicative of marijuana smoking". LMAO!! Smoking pot doesn't give you a green tongue! It's fuckin' ridiculous! And his partner backed him saying I had a green tongue.
We need mics/cameras on all cops!! These guys need to be accountable.

[rightwinger]

That has lawsuit written all over it. Purchases made? So they have receipts showing they were just there shopping. This is a first amendment issue. I would tell your son to talk to an attorney, make the mall pay for their ignorance, literally.
:jointsmile:

I agree--of all the tea shirts that I see on a daily basis that are vulgar and very distasteful---your sons tea shirt isn't one of them. I have never noticed in any mall of the really bad ones--(person wearing it) to remove it or else.

So a lawyer is probably the best option. To get a bunch of people there with tea shirts--is only going to "radicalise" the situation--with supporters of medical marijuana being called and referred to as "druggies." And we certainly don't need that about right now.

I think I have read that Aurora is very anti medical marijuana dispensory--so people can hit them in their wallets--simply by refusing to shop there.

[Justabloke]

I was stopped by mail security minutes after making my first purchase at the Aurora mail. I was planing to spend some money.
The security guard that stopped me wouldnt tell me what the problem was for about 5 minutes(until back up could show up..). The next thing I know I am surrounded by police and mail security. They said "you have to turn your shirt inside out, take it off, or leave the mail." I did not refuse to do any of those thing. I said as loud as I could without yelling "So you guys are harassing me for wearing a cannabis shirt when I came here to spend money?" They told me to remove my shirt or turn in inside out. I said "Why? So everyone can see a backwards faded marijuana leaf on my chest?" again being as loud as I could without yelling.
At this point the crowd started to gather and watch. I told them I wanted to speak to a manager about this because my rights are being violated. The mail director was right there and we began to talk like adults about this. He informed me that my shirt is considered offensive to some people so they do not allow any cannabis related attire on mail grounds. I pointed out that there are many store in the mail that sell attire such as this and I made the comment that marijuana is legal for medical users in our state, its always on the news and there is no reason for anyone to be offended by a marijuana leaf on my shirt.
At this point one of the police officers became annoyed and said "its not legal, ha" looking directly at me as he said it in a loud voice. I stopped speaking to the directer of the mail and informed the police officer that it is legal for medical use in our state and I voted on it. I then went back to speaking with the directer of the mail. I told him that they are violating my constitutional rights, when I hear the same police officer say "NO we arent" again looking directly at me. I turned and replied "yes you are, I have the right to wear what ever shirts I want to in this country". He then said "Dont talk to me, Im not talking to you"
I said "well your lookin right at me and speaking very loud"
he says "no I was talking to my fellow officer and you better start cooperating or you will be placed under arrest for trespassing"
I replied "so I am not aloud to reply to people when they are speaking to me"

They they said I was under arrest for trespassing...they brought me to the police station as I spoke very loud of the injustice going on so everyone in the mail could hear it.
I asked the police about the fact that I havent done anything wrong and was never asked to leave the mail so how could I be trespassing? he said "well then Ill just charge you for disorderly conduct"
I told him that he cant just charge me for what ever he wants, thats not how things work. I then asked why he is trying to start a fight with me
he replied "If I was trying to start a fight with you, you would be in the hospital"

I was done at that point and pretty sure I was going to jail or going to get a ticket. I was informed that I was being banned from the mail for one year and then was asked to sign a piece of paper showing that I understood. Under the offenses they listed trespassing.
Then they let me go with no charges... I was escorted to my vehicle

I have been wearing marijuana related tee shirts half my life and have never been harassed for it. It was obvious that one of the police officers on seen have a major prejudice against marijuana smokers.


edit:sorry for the novel, Its only been a day so I still am pretty worked up. Hard for me to believe that this kinda treatment is legal.....

Don't be Jake! In fact, it's very, very good you wrote this. Take a copy of this with you tomorrow to your lawyer's appointment. Later on in the case it'll become useful. If there are more things you remember between now and then add them in too. The more info you have the better for you and your case.

I was arrested at a Meijer Thrifty Acers back east for stealing a pair of shoes that I bought at Pic Way. After I was released, I went home and my mom told me to do a write up just like you did here and it was helpful. Once you get a year or so into the suit you'll start to forget little (important) details. This will help you refresh your memory. In fact, hearing your struggle it brought back memories from that time. I would have handled it SO much worse if it happened now than I did back then. Ha, back then I politely told him to fuck off...now I'd be like "FUCK FUCKING OFF, Ass hole!" But that's jus cause I have a loud mouth now. :thumbsup:

Speaking of which, I told yer mom that you handled it MUCH better than I would have. If it were me, I'd be sitting in jail on another disturbing the peace charge! LOL

In solidarity,
Just

[Justabloke]

I agree--of all the tea shirts that I see on a daily basis that are vulgar and very distasteful---your sons tea shirt isn't one of them. I have never noticed in any mall of the really bad ones--(person wearing it) to remove it or else.

So a lawyer is probably the best option. To get a bunch of people there with tea shirts--is only going to "radicalise" the situation--with supporters of medical marijuana being called and referred to as "druggies." And we certainly don't need that about right now.

I think I have read that Aurora is very anti medical marijuana dispensory--so people can hit them in their wallets--simply by refusing to shop there.

I don't knows I agree with all that winger. I think a strong stance against them showing the boycott can be helpful if tastefully done. If we get hundreds of people out there picketing, it'll draw media attention and the attention of the people which is exactly what the mall doesn't want. They go to great lenghts to avoid bad PR like this.

While this isn't about MMJ, I, personally, wouldn't open a disp in Aurora. There's too much crime there and that's just by the city itself! lol Secondly, I don't shop in Aurora because they lose the tax money generated by sales.

[Justabloke]

LOL
Very nice. Ill shoot you a mail
This is very cool. Thanks for the ideas and support

I thought about calling the police station and putting in a complaint on the officers that were on the sceen. Ill see where this goes

The only thing filing a complaint does is keeps them from getting a raise/promotion. Otherwise, they are free to do WHATEVER they want becasue they're cops. They are a (willing) tool of the gov't to supress the people and the will of the voters by any means nessicary. This is a perfect example of that.

Thanks for the email! I really like meeting new people and helping in my very small way! :)

j

[StoneyJake]

I met with some of our legal friends today and they seemed very interested in this story. They said they would start contacting reporters and try to get this on FOX news.
Right when I got back to my house I got a call saying there are a couple of reporters "chomping at the bit" for this and they wanted me to drive back to denver lol, I told them I would rather do it tomorrow. Ill drive back up there if they need me to though. So I guess Im going to have to do some interviews tomorrow :D
Here we go WWWEeeeeeeeeEEEEEeeeeeeeeeeeeee.

[TheReleafCenter]

Keep us posted on how the interviews go! Are your lawyers advising you on what to say to them?

[StoneyJake]

No, the lawyers havent said anything about what I should and shouldnt say. Im sure they will give me some pointers before the interview so I dont go off on a rant :P

I just got a text from someone at the post that wants to meet up tonight. These guys work very fast lol.

My lady doesnt want to be on TV because of her job. She was there for the entire event so Ill have to see if I can talk her into it if TV comes up

[Justabloke]

Here we go WWWEeeeeeeeeEEEEEeeeeeeeeeeeeee.

Give em hell, Jake!!! :thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::jointsmile:

[TurboALLWD]

Very interested in how this plays out. Glad to see you're going through with the inteview and trying to get you're girlfriend to testify as well :D That would be even more convincing, either way it sounds like they messed with the wrong person! Thumbs up for standing up for you're rights!:thumbsup:

[Reenster]

As a parent you never know if anything you try to teach them sinks in. Guess Jake got the message, stand up for your rights, loud and clear.

I am proud of Jake, he actually took a half day off of work to see this to the end. He is not in it for any money, contrary to what others might think. It is about making sure that no one else gets harassed for wearing something that a security guard does not agree with. He is not done being inconvienced and his only motivation is to hold people accountable for their actions.

I am damn proud of my son.

[TheReleafCenter]

We're doing Green Rights Radio tomorrow night and would love to say something about what happened. Would that be ok, Jake?

[StoneyJake]

No problem at all.
I was told my story will be in the Denver post tomorrow, Ill post a link of the story before I head out to work. There is a press release tomorrow also so it might end up being on other news media also

[Adamkadmon]

No problem at all.
I was told my story will be in the Denver post tomorrow, Ill post a link of the story before I head out to work. There is a press release tomorrow also so it might end up being on other news media also


Please let them know you have a few people supporting you by boycotting the mall.

[TheReleafCenter]

We got pushed to next week, but I'm alerting the station of your story and I'm sure they'll carry it.

Has anyone organized a pot walk yet? I think we should walk on the mall with our T-Shirts next weekend. Anyone interested?

[quagland]

good luck! I was harassed repeatedly by the APD when I was younger. My parents' house was broken into one night. I woke up to discover it, things missing, my mom's purse all over the front porch...and the first thing those asshole Aurora PIGS did was blame me. I have zero respect for the Aurora Police. Stick it to them and that piece of crap mall. If there is a protest, count me in!

[Justabloke]

We got pushed to next week, but I'm alerting the station of your story and I'm sure they'll carry it.

Has anyone organized a pot walk yet? I think we should walk on the mall with our T-Shirts next weekend. Anyone interested?

Hey Jake,

Not formally but I did bring it up around here (http://boards.cannabis.com/colorado-co/185266-draconia-tactics-aurora-mall.html#post2104151)a lil bit.

As I just told the other Jake in an email...

"From the looks of the boards RLC wants to do what I was talking about and a bunch of ppl wear pot shirts into the mall! Just an outstanding FUCK YOU if ever I saw one! ;) It would just be outstanding to see 10s or hundreds of ppl walking in from every entrance and have em just freak out. Nawww I'm not jus a lil spiteful...I'm a WHOLE LOTTA spiteful! Ahhhhhahahahahah. If we did, I'd like to see Rob inside the mall with us and Copwatch outside waiting for trouble. If it happens, I'm going to wear my lime green "Yes On 44" T-Shirt."


j

[Justabloke]

good luck! I was harassed repeatedly by the APD when I was younger. My parents' house was broken into one night. I woke up to discover it, things missing, my mom's purse all over the front porch...and the first thing those asshole Aurora PIGS did was blame me. I have zero respect for the Aurora Police. Stick it to them and that piece of crap mall. If there is a protest, count me in!

Yeah, that's cause their not cops enough to find the REAL "perp" so they just pick any unsuspecting person to pin it on so they have a "collar!" Grrrrrrr SO NOT "LAW ENFORCEMENT!" Nazism, Fascism, tyranny but NOT "law enforcement" :mad::mad:


j

[throatstick]

good luck! I was harassed repeatedly by the APD when I was younger. My parents' house was broken into one night. I woke up to discover it, things missing, my mom's purse all over the front porch...and the first thing those asshole Aurora PIGS did was blame me. I have zero respect for the Aurora Police. Stick it to them and that piece of crap mall. If there is a protest, count me in!

i have zero respect for any of them 99% of them are trash..yes high pop i said 99%.....

[Justabloke]

i have zero respect for any of them 99% of them are trash..yes high pop i said 99%.....

Ok so High Pop is a leo, huh? I got the feeling he was a lawyer! No offence High Pop! :D:D:D Tho lawyers are "officers of the court" WETE that means.

There are VERY FEW good leos out there; very few! But, they are there and we only have to look to LEAP (http://www.leap.cc/)to see there are some who ARE on our side.

That said, yes the vast majority of them SUCK and not in a good way!!!

j

Ps Anyone know what a 1000 lawyers tired up at the bottom of the sea is?

[HighPopalorum]

Ok so High Pop is a leo, huh? I got the feeling he was a lawyer! No offence High Pop! Tho lawyers are "officers of the court" WETE that means.

I'm actually a teacher. (of government and civics, among other things) I try to say every three posts or so that I'm not a lawyer! I think it's ironic that some here accuse me of being an undercover cop, because in real life I'm anything but: I'm a tweedy liberal academic type with an ACLU card, a bicycle and an iphone. I don't meet a lot of police officers like myself.

[Justabloke]

I'm actually a teacher. (of government and civics, among other things) I try to say every three posts or so that I'm not a lawyer! I think it's ironic that some here accuse me of being an undercover cop, because in real life I'm anything but: I'm a tweedy liberal academic type with an ACLU card, a bicycle and an iphone. I don't meet a lot of police officers like myself.

Well I ment no offence! In spite of the fact it was rather rude of me to say!

Well I invite you over to the "extremeist" side should you ever like. :thumbsup::jointsmile::hippy::pimp::lol5:

j

Ps The only entry requirement would be your belief in the fact that EVERYTHING is a conspiracy! LOL

[StoneyJake]

lol @ bloke

Well its in the paper. Susan did a great Job. I wasnt sure if I was supposed to say who was representing me but Susan quoted some of the letter that Rob Corry wrote on my behalf so I guess its cool
Rob and Jessica Corry are really nice people that are all about the cause. They were very supportive and shocked at my story. Most lawyers would be salivating at the possibility of a lawsuit. Rob wanted to make this more about the cause. I thought that was very cool.

Heres a link to the story

denverpost story (http://www.denverpost.com/greene)

[copobo]

good job!

THIS is what needs to happen! I'm proud of Jake and I've never met him.

[Justabloke]

lol @ bloke

Well its in the paper. Susan did a great Job. I wasnt sure if I was supposed to say who was representing me but Susan quoted some of the letter that Rob Corry wrote on my behalf so I guess its cool
Rob and Jessica Corry are really nice people that are all about the cause. They were very supportive and shocked at my story. Most lawyers would be salivating at the possibility of a lawsuit. Rob wanted to make this more about the cause. I thought that was very cool.

Heres a link to the story

denverpost story (http://www.denverpost.com/greene)

Yes she did. I noted a hint of sarcasm which I, personally, respond to very well. "He can easily go a year without The Disney Store or Hot Dog on a Stick."

I'm glad we have talented and open people like her on our side.

j

[Reenster]

I really love Mr Corry's sarcasm and humor. The letter was a great read, and Fox 31 new will air the story tonight at 5pm. CBS also interviewed him but unsure when it will air.

Westword and Huffingtonpost.com both had posts, and Jake is on the top 20 storys atm that are on Huffington.

MedicinalColorado.org (http://www.medicinalcolorado.org/)
Medicalcolorado.org recent put up the story as well

[copobo]

channel 2 coverage:
Marijuana shirt lands Aurora man in hot water with cops - KWGN (http://www.kwgn.com/news/kdvr-aurora-mall-marijuana-shirt-txt,0,7170325.story)

[smokypants]

CBS just showed it. It was pretty quick, but reasonably balanced. They communicated that the potential legal action was about removing the ban and their policies rather than money. :thumbsup:

[StoneyJake]

Fox news (http://www.kdvr.com/news/kdvr-aurora-mall-marijuana-shirt-txt,0,5662997.story)
CBS4 news (http://www.cbs4denver.com/video/[email protected])

studdered a bit for fox lol. Im not a big fan of the interviews so far.Im not used to seein myself on TV.
I figured the police would make something up but saying I was cursing and acting out is stupid. We all know if that was the case I woulda got arrested. Ive never had a cop NOT write me a ticket there was grounds for. I think I might have said that it was bullshit but I did not curse out the mall employees and the police WERE there before I was even told what was going on.


Rob and Jessica along with SAFER Colorado would like to do a demonstration at the mall on Saturday 4:00. :P Could be fun

[COzigzag]

I just got a response to my email from Aj Coffee. It states, "we would like to clarify that Mr. Gailey was not asked to leave the mall because of his T-shirt â?? he was asked to leave because of his belligerent behavior." AND "Mr. Gailey got very loud and began yelling obscenities at our staff members causing a significant disturbance."

It appears this will be their defense.

[Justabloke]

Rob and Jessica along with SAFER Colorado would like to do a demonstration at the mall on Saturday 4:00. :P Could be fun

Do you know where and suggested attire?

j

[Justabloke]

I just got a response to my email from Aj Coffee. It states, "we would like to clarify that Mr. Gailey was not asked to leave the mall because of his T-shirt â?? he was asked to leave because of his belligerent behavior." AND "Mr. Gailey got very loud and began yelling obscenities at our staff members causing a significant disturbance."

It appears this will be their defense.

If Jake was that much of a threat to Mr. Coffee and staff why didn't they have Jake arrested on the spot and hauled off to jail? What Mr. Coffee is saying is that Jake was disturbing the peace. (when actually it was the Nazis like Coffee and staff who were) Could it be they started to realize a little late they may not have a leg to stand on? Hummmmm

j

[StoneyJake]

Sounds like Im not getting an apology from either of them. I was not acting like Mr. Coffee said I was or as bloke pointed out I would have been charged with something. If this does go to court I wonder if the video will come out.

I am sure that I wasnt "belligerent" and he knows it. There was over 100 people that saw this happen to me. I would like to one or two to come out and tell what they saw. I already said I was loud but I was not "yelling obscenities". I think I may have said something like "this is bullshit" but no obscenities were yelled at staff

[Reenster]

I am general disturbed by the fact that almost every one of my public moves is recorded somewhere by someone. In this case I think it will prove to be to Jake's advantage. It will become clear that the police responded with the "back up" security guards and that he did not become loud or create a scene till they told him to remove or turn his shirt inside out.

It would be great if there was audio as well. That would prove that the police are not being totally truthful.

I stand by my son 100%. I will march side by side with him. If this is the direction our country is going in, the concerns I already had are compounding.

The bottom line is that offensive is too subjective of a word. I have worn my Ganja Cafe shirt in the mall and was never approached. This leads me to believe that their policy is not anti marijuana but that my son was singled out because he was not a middle aged gray hair woman. They probably never gave me a second look. They are profiling people of a certain age, dress code, and on occasion color. This is a discrimatory practice.

If the Towne Center at Aurora has a policy specifically anti marijuana shirts then why would they not stand up and tell the reporter that it was not allowed. Why was he told not to confront the reporter about the shirt? Was it just the reporter or anyone with an MJ shirt? These questions remain to be answered.

On channel 4 the reporter purchased a tee shirt at the mall and walked up to security and asked if the shirt was okay to wear. The security guard said I wish you would not but I have been told not to confront you about the shirt. So...they will not confront a reporter but a 28 year carpenter is fair game.

[copobo]

is there going to be a demonstration?

if there is, we're there, in our finest t's!

[Justabloke]

It would be great if there was audio as well. That would prove that the police are not being totally truthful. .

They may have aduio recording but I doubt it. It's hard to mic a large open space such as the mall. More likely, the cops may have been wired but usually when they are the recording device is in their patrol car.



I stand by my son 100%. I will march side by side with him. If this is the direction our country is going in, the concerns I already had are compounding.


Wow if you're adopting I could use a cool new mum!!! :thumbsup:


This leads me to believe that their policy is not anti marijuana but that my son was singled out because he was not a middle aged gray hair woman. They probably never gave me a second look. They are profiling people of a certain age, dress code, and on occasion color. This is a discrimatory practice.

Oh yeah, they, for a long time, have been doing this kinda crap and getting away with it. Which, is why they are trying to get away with it now. I really :clap::clap::clap: Jake for being man and activist enough to stand up to this kinda crap. They (the mall and the cops) do it because they don't think people will stand up and say "NO! You may not do this to me!!!"



If the Towne Center at Aurora has a policy specifically anti marijuana shirts then why would they not stand up and tell the reporter that it was not allowed. Why was he told not to confront the reporter about the shirt? Was it just the reporter or anyone with an MJ shirt? These questions remain to be answered.

I would find it very interesting if they had in their Great Book of policies something in writing prohibiting one's Constitutional Rights. Or, are they arbitrarily making up "rules" as they go along for each individual they deem unworthy to enter their mall.



On channel 4 the reporter purchased a tee shirt at the mall and walked up to security and asked if the shirt was okay to wear. The security guard said I wish you would not but I have been told not to confront you about the shirt. So...they will not confront a reporter but a 28 year carpenter is fair game.

Again, I think they know they messed up and didn't want to do it again to a reporter who was potentially recording audio and video.

Right, I have to get ready for work.


j

[Reenster]

Just contacted Spencer's Gifts and they gave me their attorney's voice mail. I was curious how they felt about the malls policies. I also asked how they would feel about their store being treated as 18+ only, since we obviously must protect the poor innocent children :stoned:. Left a message we will see if they contact me back.

If they are so concerned, and the stores that sell marijuana related items are in compliance with mall policy how can they be obscene? Does the mall then condone only the purchase of obscene or controversial material but not the actually utilization of those same materials?

Working at finding posting the list of all properties owned by Simon so we can avoid spending money in them everywhere. My question is how can something that is legal be so controversial?

I wore many shirts that would have been deemed much more offensive back in the 70's. Any of you old folks remember the shirts with Speedy Alka Seltzer but his body was a Rorer 714 quaalude? Or the better living thru chemistry shirt with Sigmund Fraud snorting cocaine? I wore those everywhere without issue. How can this shirt even be in the same league?

[COzigzag]

StoneyJake,

Do you want a copy of AJ Coffee's email sent to your attorney or yourself? You or attorney may be able to find an inconsistency within the email which may help your case. I'm not sure of the legalities of just forwarding it to you or your attorney. You may want to bring it up with your attorney prior to me doing anything first.

It basically says the mall is a family friendly place and you were not meeting the family friendly atmosphere...blah, blah, blah.

Let me know what you decide.

[Adamkadmon]

Sounds like Im not getting an apology from either of them. I was not acting like Mr. Coffee said I was or as bloke pointed out I would have been charged with something. If this does go to court I wonder if the video will come out.

I am sure that I wasnt "belligerent" and he knows it. There was over 100 people that saw this happen to me. I would like to one or two to come out and tell what they saw. I already said I was loud but I was not "yelling obscenities". I think I may have said something like "this is bullshit" but no obscenities were yelled at staff


I'd advise "Mr. Coffee" to shut their trap....defamation anyone?

[StoneyJake]

StoneyJake,

Do you want a copy of AJ Coffee's email sent to your attorney or yourself? You or attorney may be able to find an inconsistency within the email which may help your case. I'm not sure of the legalities of just forwarding it to you or your attorney. You may want to bring it up with your attorney prior to me doing anything first.

It basically says the mall is a family friendly place and you were not meeting the family friendly atmosphere...blah, blah, blah.

Let me know what you decide.

right on man thanks.Send it to me if you could, Ill save it and see what they say

[TurboALLWD]

right on man thanks.Send it to me if you could, Ill save it and see what they say

Dude I just gota say I like what you're doing. It really makes me smile :D The fact that you gave them a chance to apologize and change their ridiculous rules before making a lawsuit out of this really shows you want the bullshit to stop more than than winning a settlement. You really deserve to get a chunk of their money. It's the only way they'll ever learn to respect peoples views! I consider this a big step forward, a lot of people would have stood down in fear of losing their job among other things. We need more people, business owners, to stand up for their rights! :thumbsup:

[StoneyJake]

:rasta:
Thanks man. This week has been kinda rough. I am a sub-contractor so I still have to get business from people to keep going. Most of the people that I work for or have worked for know that I smoke but I am a little concerned that this could affect future jobs for me. The guy Im doing work for right now called me "superstar" when he saw me this morning.

Also the more I think about it the more I think it might be a good idea to move outta Aurora before they have a chance to mess with me :P
I like to stay close to our family though so I will probably stick around

[rikb631]

[quote=Reenster]

Working at finding posting the list of all properties owned by Simon so we can avoid spending money in them everywhere. My question is how can something that is legal be so controversial?

QUOTE]

good luck with that, simon owns a ton of malls in the US, i believe they own the most malls in the country. that said they are a bunch of dinks about thier policys ive already stopped shopping at simon malls but that was years ago.

[lampost]

Hey Jake really appreciate what you're doing as well! Hope you get handsomely rewarded now that they're slandering you and lying about your behavior.

That shit is not tolerable as far as I'm concerned. Every cop in this nation should wear a simple microphone. How hard is that to do?! The few times I've had run-ins with the law the police of lied or greatly exaggerated in the report!

[canaguy27]

Just thought I would put this out there. Please watch what you say on here. It is public record. "aurora mall marijuana" brings up this thread on the 6th hit. Just something to think about.

Glad they picked up this story, and we are proud of you for standing up. Have a good weekend and goodluck.:jointsmile:

[TurboALLWD]

Whats you're business email address? I think we're allowed to post those here but if not it will just be removed by mod's. It takes some balls to do what you're doing and I think the whole marijuana community should support you. I'm with copobo on this, if theres going to be a demonstration, I will be there for sure. It would be good if you could give the community a week to get organized before it happens, get it on the news and what not. I could have hundreds if not thousands of tshirts printed, I have two friends with tshirt shops that would most likely give a discount for the cause.

[Kamorm]

I am making my first post to thank this community for the amazing support you have all shown my son Jake. I am very proud of him standing up for what he believes in, I know it isn't easy.

Press releases, reporters and lawyers OH MY!

This journey started with a quest for a new hat, I wonder where it will lead us.

Jake's Dad

[Justabloke]

I am making my first post to thank this community for the amazing support you have all shown my son Jake. I am very proud of him standing up for what he believes in, I know it isn't easy.

Press releases, reporters and lawyers OH MY!

This journey started with a quest for a new hat, I wonder where it will lead us.

Jake's Dad

Jake's Dad,

Welcome to the forum. :)

You are most welcome! For me, support like this is a given. When someone is in trouble, the only thing to do is help. It's great to see somone who isn't a sheeple and willing to stand up for his rights as an American and a human! There are lots of people out there who are proud of your son. Many of them, like myself, who don't even know Jake (yet).

I hope this journey leads Jake to a fricken huge settlement that will tell these Nazis and Fascists that this type of behavior simply will not due!

I hope both you and Reenster are there today. It would be great to meet you both and shake your hands.

In solidarity,
justabloke

Ps Jake? Ever get the feeling its all about you? lol

[TurboALLWD]

Is this going down today at 4? So much for getting organized.

[Adamkadmon]

Is this going down today at 4? So much for getting organized.


Mall Cops Out of Control!

Last Saturday, 28-year-old Jake Gailey was shopping with his girlfriend in an Aurora (CO) mall when security guards stopped and harassed him because he was wearing a "Yes We Cannabis" T-shirt. The mall cops told Jake he had to remove the shirt, turn it inside-out, or exit the mall because it's reference to marijuana legalization was offensive. When Jake expressed his opinion that he ought to be allowed to wear the shirt he was cited for trespassing and banned from the mall for one year.

Click HERE or visit Wearing "Yes We Cannabis" T-shirt leads to 1-year ban from Aurora mall - Denver News - The Latest Word to read the entire story on the Westword blog.

To protest this ridiculous action by the Town Center at Aurora, SAFER is organizing a march inside the mall in which supporters will all be wearing "Cannabis/Can o' Beer" SAFER T-shirts.

The details of the event are below, so please join and/or help us by coming out and spreading the word. If you come, please wear a "Cannabis/Can o' Beer" SAFER T-shirt -- we will also have some shirts available for people to borrow.

If you are not in Colorado or cannot make it, please visit the mall owners' feedback form at Simon Property Group and send them a stern -- yet courteous -- message that this type of behavior is unacceptable.

WHAT: News conference and march inside the mall

WHEN: TOMORROW, Saturday, May 29th @ 3:45 p.m.

WHERE: Town Center at Aurora (off of I-225 and E. Alameda Ave.), meet in front of the east entrance off of S. Sable Blvd. and E. Centrepoint Dr

[vegetabongrips]

Adam, I've seen you post over at dailybuds and I don't think there's been mention of this protest there...you should go repost :D

[StoneyJake]

Ps Jake? Ever get the feeling its all about you? lol

No way. Im not the one getting free joints at the dispensary(like my parents)... lol
Im talkin to you Leaf, I know your out there :P
Maybe next time eh? :S5:

[TurboALLWD]

Adam, I've seen you post over at dailybuds and I don't think there's been mention of this protest there...you should go repost :D

Can anyone recommend a place on the way down to the Aurora Mall where one could pick up a marijuana tshirt? Preferably the same kind Stoney Jake had on that started this :D

[lampost]

Shit, I just realized this is today. Better start getting blazed...

I don't have any herb-shirts. Maybe a Jerry Garcia or tie-dyed Bob shirt will have to suffice?

Or wait, I'll just sharpie a big pot leaf on an undershirt!

[TurboALLWD]

Shit, I just realized this is today. Better start getting blazed...

I don't have any herb-shirts. Maybe a Jerry Garcia or tie-dyed Bob shirt will have to suffice?

Or wait, I'll just sharpie a big pot leaf on an undershirt!

Me either, I guess I'll try to find a sharpie as well. I can't draw worth a crap though, anybody wanna help a brother out?

[vegetabongrips]

Just like draw a big ass pot leaf and under it write, "Ceci n'est pas une feuille de marijuana."

Done and done!

[TurboALLWD]

Just like draw a big ass pot leaf and under it write, "Ceci n'est pas une feuille de marijuana."

Done and done!

If I had ink I could print out a cannabis leaf to trace. I'm gonna try to find a shirt to buy.

[vegetabongrips]

If I had ink I could print out a cannabis leaf to trace. I'm gonna try to find a shirt to buy.

Try Spencers ;) jk

Every good stoner should know how to draw a pot leaf tho, tsk tsk.

[StoneyJake]

SAFER said they would have some shirts people can use. If they are smart they will bring a few to sell also
I purchased the "Yes We Cannabis" shirt at the recent Kush magazine hosted convention, so Im not sure where those would be sold. "Legalized Apparel" is the name of the company that made the shirt I was wearing while harassed

[TurboALLWD]

Cool I'm heading down with a sharpie and a white t incase I can't get one there. Jake, check you're rep and drop me a line. :jointsmile:

[Justabloke]

For what ever it's worth Jake,

I know it's a little stressful for you now but the media attention will drop very quickly. Then you'll be left with the court/suit crap. Then, once this is all over, I predict you'll be doing MUCH better and not have to work as much/at all.

You, mom, and dad have but only to call on me should you need or want. United we stand; devided we fall and I'm not about letting anyone in our community get screwd by Nazis and Fascists (APD/Simon)

j

[StoneyJake]

You are the man
Same to you bro.:jointsmile:

[Reenster]

Jake called last night to see if I was upset at the channel 4 for their coverage. Frankly I went to bed and did not watch it. Have to be at work at 6am today.

I was upset with channel 4 at the mall. I could not believe the camera man for channel 4 was interrupting Mason and talking about the mall being private property. That showed me that they were biased and were there to comment on the news not report it. I told channel 4 I did not want to speak to them. They kept pushing for me to comment on a law suit. It was not my place to do so. Of course they could not speak to Jake since he could not attend.

[alarmism]

It seems, Aurora Mall has a long and sordid history ...


MARCH 17, 1990

AURORA MALL/NAACP JOINING TOGETHER TO ADDRESS COMMUNITY CONCERNS

â??Working with the NAACP, the Aurora Mall will implement a range of new programs to address current feelings of discrimination being expressed by members of the black community.â?� --- FROM PR Newswire

AUGUST 10, 2004

EXCLUSIVE: TAPE SHOWS AURORA MALL WANTING TO WEED OUT BLACKS

"You're saying that they want to bring in more white clientele," an Aurora mall tenant asked on the tape.

"Or just more clientele, period. But we're not getting the white customer," Aurora Mall's top leasing agent responded.

"Is the mall going to, like, plan on just marketing primarily to white customers to get them into the mall or ...?" the tenant asked

"I would say our marketing is going to be more white-focused, yes," said the leasing agent. --- FROM A Tony Kovaleski Investigation â?? Channel 7 News â?? The Denver Channel

AUGUST 11, 2004

MAYOR DEFENDS MALL'S TAX BREAKS, DESPITE RACIAL-BIAS INCIDENT.

â??Aurora Mayor Ed Tauer said Tuesday that $15 million in city tax breaks should not be yanked from the owners of Aurora Mall, where a leasing representative was suspended for reportedly saying that the redeveloping shopping center needs to attract more white customers instead of "the young, black customer." --- from, The Denver Post Knight Ridder/Tribune Business News, By Christine Tatum

NOVEMBER 24, 2004

MINORITY YOUTHS STILL REPORT RACIAL HARASSMENT AT AURORA, COLO., MALL.

Nov. 24--Black and Latino youths are still subject to harassment, months after an Aurora Mall employee made racially insensitive remarks, say teenagers and community leaders.

The Local Organizing Committee for the Million Family March, led by Alvertis Simmons, is also dissatisfied with the level of minority involvement in a $100 million expansion project at the mall â?¦from Knight Ridder/Tribune Business News

MAR 28, 2007

AURORA MALL SHOPPERS CLAIM RACIAL PROFILING
(CBS4)

â??The Town Center at Aurora has denied allegations it racial profiles customers who are minorities or dress in a certain fashion. Several people in their 20s said they've been targeted because of their skin color and have asked the American Civil Liberties Union to investigate.

Last year, a civil rights group known as Acorn surveyed minority shoppers at the mall and found that 48 people claimed racial profiling. Thirty-one percent of those said they were targeted for their clothing. Twenty-three percent said they were approached for violating mall curfew. Eighty-two percent said they were asked to leave even though they were older than 16.â?� from CBS4 by Jodi Brooks

[Justabloke]

It seems, Aurora Mall has a long and sordid history ...


Hey Alarm,

Yes The AM is not only exactly whats wrong with America today but part of a long liniage of a growing segment of businesses in America today who want to make money and make it their way if they have to beat it out of you.

Sorry if that sounds cyncial,
j

[Reenster]

I have gotten a lot of responses from people outside of the MMJ community that were just surprised that this was all over a T Shirt. For me its a symptom of a much larger problem.

We, as a country, have forgotten about personal responsibility and respect. It is the responsibility of a parent to impart their values and beliefs to their children, not hide all values and beliefs from their children. It is our responsibility to protect our freedoms and we must respect others to not infringe on theirs. No individual should attempt to push their opinions on others. Wearing a shirt will not sway anyone's opinion, it simply expresses one. The silencing of certain opinions by banning arbitrary articles of clothing is inexcusable.

I find the Aurora Mall was attempting to protect the community from values other than those of management. I think Simon properties is unaware of the feelings of the community they are in regarding marijuana.