Originally posted by DKSuddeth
exactly, but why does the patriot act redefine terrorism to include many other crimes that previously weren't?
case in point, a california police agency bust a meth manufacturer. The DA charges him with being a terrorist under the patriot act because the act muddies the definition of chemical weapons as that which are dangerous to people.
It was later withdrawn and a more normal charge of manufacturing and distribution was instated, but initially this DA, and many others, said 'why shouldn't they?' use the patriot act as new tools to fight ordinary crime as well. Thats the classic eventual abuse that alot of us tried to warn about when the act was first passed.
I'll look for some articles on the requirements for the FISA warrants but they are classified. I think that some intelligence comittee members had said something about them though and it may be in print. If i find them, i'll post them.
The act is there to protect all Americans from possible terrorism. I'd like to see the case where someone was charged with terrorism for running a meth lab. And regardless, if the charge was changed, than it's working the way it should. Nor do I have any sympathy for someone running a meth lab anyway.
When the laws effect the everyday law abiding citizen, then I'll be concerned. Only criminals fear the new provisions.