Golden – Five of 12 anti-war protesters convicted of blocking access to a Lakewood military recruiting office today chose jail over community service as their sentences.
Three of the “No Blood for Oil 12” were handcuffed and led off to serve their 10-day jail sentences, with two vowing to fast as long as they could.
Drew Edmondson, 56, wearing a tie-dyed T-shirt, flashed a two-fingered peace sign despite his handcuffs. He told the court that every effort was made at the June 5 trial “to make it not political,” leaving proceedings to deal with “two little misdemeanors.”
All 12 were found guilty of obstructing a passageway and trespassing.
Two defendants received time to get their affairs in order before beginning their sentences. Bonnie McCormick, 75, asked for a two-day stay so she could arrange care for her cat.
Other defendants and their supporters rose and applauded each time someone elected to serve time.
Jefferson County Judge Charles Hoppin suspended the jail sentences for the remaining seven defendants on condition that they do 24 hours of community service.
Each of the 12 was fined $159 in court costs, with those doing community service assessed an additional $85 each for program monitoring.
Those choosing a jail sentence in addition to Edmondson and McCormick were Carolyn Bninski, 56; Ellen Stark, 60, and DeAnn Major, 40. Major will begin her jail sentence on Aug. 10.
Community service was selected by Claire Ryder,46; Cheryl Distaso, 46; Betty Goebel, 53; T.J. Bowen, 26; Janet Roberts, 50; Scott Foreman, 53, and Richard Conn, 76.
Staff writer Ann Schrader can be reached at 303-278-3217 or aschrader@denverpost.com.
