per the TU - DUI charges in Bradford County after the Gators game.
http://jacksonville.com/news/crime/2011-09-12/story/jacksonville-mayoral-spokesman-abel-harding-arrested-dui-charge
Sad to hear.
"C'mon man!" Honestly I have been there earlier this year myself. Wasnt a very fun nor cheap ordeal :( Thats sad to hear about Abel. He has a great job. Dont risk losing what you have over making bad decisions.
PS Does he not know that the police on 301 LOOK for dui's and perform dui checkstops after gator games?
A FTU post on this subject this morning makes reference to Brown Administration Toll Road meddling.....which got me to thinking:
Recall Governor Martinez era Jax/ Tampa Toll road (Brannon Chaffee the northern leg) by way of snaking through the Gainesville area.
brilliant!
Just goes to show you the need for a maze of needed new toll road facility,magical Network Alleviation,reduced use of US 301 and related ills,convenient access to Football games.
Tongue in cheek-
Hwy 301 is definitely a tax cow for the small Gestapos along its route. There happened to be a game in Gainesville about ’85, and while returning to Jax late evening after a book appraisal, I was stopped by the 301 Gestapo somewhere around Waldo; and this even though I was being cautious with speed because of the Gestapo’s known questionable habits along 301. Said he saw me weaving…must have changed lanes. He leaned in sensing for alcohol. Although in my earlier years I would not only party and then drive home, I would drink and drive; I find myself with no desire to drink these days. In any case, this fellow asked me to step out and do a short walk. I did so….. perfectly.
I sensed this fellow's disappointment at my good walk, and always wondered how many drivers he stopped that night of the game, and how much fact or evidence twisting was accomplished in order to gain as many dollars a possible for his community and department. I do not trust these fellows to uphold only the law. They have a temporary and limited power on the road, and some frequently abuse it.
I’m sure the powers at be in the city will realize the assets in abilities and integrity we have in Mr. Harding and, especially because it was his first encounter with the 301 Gestapo, or any problem of this nature, will not allow this event, which may have in fact been the result of Hwy 301 Gestapo unfairness, to obscure in any way an otherwise exemplary career.
First, this is a sad story. I think very highly of Abel and wish the best for him.
Second, for those who want to travel to Gainesville without using U.S. 301, please consider the following route:
1. Go south on Blanding Boulevard (State Road 21) through Clay County (Orange Park, Middleburg, Keystone Heights).
2. Stay on State Road 21 until reaching the town of Melrose (Putnam/Alachua Counties).
3. Turn right onto State Road 26 and go straight into Gainesville (University Avenue).
The upside to taking SR 21/SR 26 is that there seem to be fewer lights on this route.
Really sorry to hear that - Abel's a good guy. It can be tough for people like High School Principals and appointed officials. In a lot of ways, they are never "off the clock"
and always under the microscope. Hopefully, he can over come this.
Abel's a good guy. Bad things often happen to good people. While I'm not condoning driving drunk, 301 is such a crapshoot that I will go any other way possible to avoid it, even driving under the speed limit, even if it takes me 3 times as long to get to Gainesville.
Best of luck, Abel. You're a good dad and I know your family supports you.
I have always hated driving on 301. It is very creepy and it makes me paranoid.
He still looks wasted in his mug shot. This has got to be a low point in this guys life. Hopefully he learns from it and nobody was hurt or killed. Don't drink and drive,, you will eventually get caught. Hotel rooms are cheap compared to what this guy will have to dish out now.
Sad indeed. I hope I'm wrong in sensing some on here blaming the system (or finding a way around it) instead of faulting Abel. As Duval Dude was saying, let's not ruin a reputation by making bad decisions.
Quote from: videojon on September 13, 2011, 10:27:19 AM
Sad indeed. I hope I'm wrong in sensing some on here blaming the system (or finding a way around it) instead of faulting Abel. As Duval Dude was saying, let's not ruin a reputation by making bad decisions.
I know that my post might have come across as 'finding a way around it.' I apologize. First and foremost, it is important to avoid driving while drunk or under the influence. I, however, still stand by my alternative route for travel between Jacksonville for those who are looking for a simpler way and who are looking to avoid the speed traps.
Quote from: duvaldude08 on September 13, 2011, 10:21:44 AM
I have always hated driving on 301. It is very creepy and it makes me paranoid.
301 is a cool road... minus the speed traps etc. It is full of "old florida"... the way it was before the mouse and the "interstate system".
HOLD THE PHONE!
If this was Rick Scott getting a DUI after a Gators game, how different would the tone of the comments be?
Rick Scott wouldn't be driving on 301. He'd be in his private plane.
I feel for Abel. While what he did was a bad choice, I'm hesitant to believe he was wholly at fault. I have been a victim of some pretty unfair stuff on 301.
A week after I got a new car in 2008 I was driving just north of Waldo where the speed limit drops for about 100 yards for an intersection. I was towards the back of a 10 car pack that was traveling about 10 miles an hour over the speed limit. Knowing of the decrease in speed, I dropped down to about 63, 8 over the reduced speed limit. The other cars kept their speed and 2 actually sped up. The cop came out and started to chase the faster cars. He then spotted me in what he thought was a 'nice car' and cut me off and pulled me over. He then proceeded to compliment my car, say he "wished he could afford a car like that", and then go on a diatribe about rich kids wasting their parents money. Needless to say, I was furious. For the record, my car was purchased for less than $18,000. A decent car for sure, but nowhere near luxury. I paid for a good portion of the car through the 2 jobs I was working while in school.
Quote from: buckethead on September 13, 2011, 10:43:03 AM
HOLD THE PHONE!
If this was Rick Scott getting a DUI after a Gators game, how different would the tone of the comments be?
Yeah, no difference between the Governor of Florida and a staff member to the Mayor of Jacksonville. No sir. I bet only partisan hacks would critique the Governor for a DUI.
then again one would think you're crazy to think he'd be driving himself as the Governor of Florida in the first place, just sayin'.
Also, the mayor's spokeperson and Governor of Florida are truly on completely seperate levels.
Quote from: Captain Zissou on September 13, 2011, 10:59:17 AM
Rick Scott wouldn't be driving on 301. He'd be in his private plane.
I feel for Abel. While what he did was a bad choice, I'm hesitant to believe he was wholly at fault. I have been a victim of some pretty unfair stuff on 301.
A week after I got a new car in 2008 I was driving just north of Waldo where the speed limit drops for about 100 yards for an intersection. I was towards the back of a 10 car pack that was traveling about 10 miles an hour over the speed limit. Knowing of the decrease in speed, I dropped down to about 63, 8 over the reduced speed limit. The other cars kept their speed and 2 actually sped up. The cop came out and started to chase the faster cars. He then spotted me in what he thought was a 'nice car' and cut me off and pulled me over. He then proceeded to compliment my car, say he "wished he could afford a car like that", and then go on a diatribe about rich kids wasting their parents money. Needless to say, I was furious. For the record, my car was purchased for less than $18,000. A decent car for sure, but nowhere near luxury. I paid for a good portion of the car through the 2 jobs I was working while in school.
Abel made a pretty stupid call. I don't drink so I've never been close to getting a DUI. My brother, on the other hand, no longer has a license thanks to similarly stupid calls. All it takes is one bad decision and one point (or hundredth of a point) over the legal limit.
But 301 is infamous for the Police Squad. Years ago I was with a friend in his new Mustang Convertible. He was trying to keep up with traffic when I mentioned that the rest of the traffic was good ol' boys in pickup trucks - not a couple college kids in a convertible sports car. We slowed way, way down. Passed at least a half dozen cop cars in that little stretch. So they're definitely out there.
Someone on the TU website mentions that Abel may have been the victim of a targeted conspiracy. That seems a little far-fetched.
Quote from: BridgeTroll on September 13, 2011, 10:42:34 AM
Quote from: duvaldude08 on September 13, 2011, 10:21:44 AM
I have always hated driving on 301. It is very creepy and it makes me paranoid.
301 is a cool road... minus the speed traps etc. It is full of "old florida"... the way it was before the mouse and the "interstate system".
I agree that U.S. 301 has an 'Old Florida' charm that would appeal to the most die-hard of Tim Dorsey fans. The best way to enjoy that road, IMHO, is as a passenger. Let someone else stress over the speed traps!
Quote from: buckethead on September 13, 2011, 10:43:03 AM
HOLD THE PHONE!
If this was Rick Scott getting a DUI after a Gators game, how different would the tone of the comments be?
Yes they would be harsher. Seriously though a local staffer no matter what party is not going to incur the same vitriol as a Governor no matter what party.
If you are just trying to bust the people here on the terms that they deal differently towards others based on past events and personal opinions then I will plead guilty.
For the record it is very bad to drink and drive no matter who you are.
Quote from: Captain Zissou on September 13, 2011, 10:59:17 AM
I feel for Abel. While what he did was a bad choice, I'm hesitant to believe he was wholly at fault. I have been a victim of some pretty unfair stuff on 301.
sorry, but if he failed a sobriety test, he is fully at fault!
Quote from: tufsu1 on September 13, 2011, 11:54:31 AM
Quote from: Captain Zissou on September 13, 2011, 10:59:17 AM
I feel for Abel. While what he did was a bad choice, I'm hesitant to believe he was wholly at fault. I have been a victim of some pretty unfair stuff on 301.
sorry, but if he failed a sobriety test, he is fully at fault!
Almost nobody passes the field sobriety exercises, tufsu. They're designed to generate probable cause, not demonstrate sobriety. Harding fucked up, he should have refused those.
Quote from: ChriswUfGator on September 13, 2011, 12:06:11 PM
Quote from: tufsu1 on September 13, 2011, 11:54:31 AM
Quote from: Captain Zissou on September 13, 2011, 10:59:17 AM
I feel for Abel. While what he did was a bad choice, I'm hesitant to believe he was wholly at fault. I have been a victim of some pretty unfair stuff on 301.
sorry, but if he failed a sobriety test, he is fully at fault!
Almost nobody passes the field sobriety exercises, tufsu. They're designed to generate probable cause, not demonstrate sobriety.
This is exactly what I meant.
Chris, maybe you can elaborate on this. It seems to me the seatbelt crackdown and other things are solely to allow cops to potentially search your vehicle. Same thing with life jackets on a boat. Cops can pull you over and board for no other reason than to check your life jackets. Once on board, whatever they find is fair game. Is this correct??
I'm not trying to cheat the law, but lately it seems like cops have been overstepping their bounds.
Field Sobriety tests are a joke. Uneven pavement, dis-orientation from the flashing strobes, anxiety from the situation in general, etc.... Sure, they can be damning if you're stumbling all over the place and mush-mouthing your words, but if you're reasonably sober (take that for what it's worth) then they are completely inconclusive.
The real key is did he blow. (No, I'm not talking about the cop) If he refuses to blow, he's automatically hauled in to jail and his license is suspended until after his trial and most of these cases are reduced to a lesser charge and he avoids a DUI. It's still about $1,500 and some community service / alcohol classes
If he blew and registered over the limit - he's pretty much screwed and has to pony up for a Real attorney.
Quote from: ChriswUfGator on September 13, 2011, 12:06:11 PM
Quote from: tufsu1 on September 13, 2011, 11:54:31 AM
Quote from: Captain Zissou on September 13, 2011, 10:59:17 AM
I feel for Abel. While what he did was a bad choice, I'm hesitant to believe he was wholly at fault. I have been a victim of some pretty unfair stuff on 301.
sorry, but if he failed a sobriety test, he is fully at fault!
Almost nobody passes the field sobriety exercises, tufsu. They're designed to generate probable cause, not demonstrate sobriety. Harding fucked up, he should have refused those.
And I found out after my ordeal earlier this year, that you can refuse to do the field soberity excercise without any consequences. The whole thing is pointless. I could not do that stuff if I was sober. Bad thing about it I had on some huge boots and was trying to walk the line and turn around. It was impossiable because my boots were in the way. I wear a size 13 might I add. LOL
Since Vietnam, I can't walk a straight line on those rare occasions when I'm not on some new designer drug from the VA, and they still let me drive! I'LL REFUSE.
OCKLAWAHA
Quote from: Non-RedNeck Westsider on September 13, 2011, 12:16:13 PM
Field Sobriety tests are a joke. Uneven pavement, dis-orientation from the flashing strobes, anxiety from the situation in general, etc.... Sure, they can be damning if you're stumbling all over the place and mush-mouthing your words, but if you're reasonably sober (take that for what it's worth) then they are completely inconclusive.
The real key is did he blow. (No, I'm not talking about the cop) If he refuses to blow, he's automatically hauled in to jail and his license is suspended until after his trial and most of these cases are reduced to a lesser charge and he avoids a DUI. It's still about $1,500 and some community service / alcohol classes
If he blew and registered over the limit - he's pretty much screwed and has to pony up for a Real attorney.
True, he should not have taken a field test. Any half ass attorney can get it reduced to Reck Driving pretty easily. With that said,, i can pretty much smell the booze from this dude's mug shot. Us Gators party pretty hard at games and he still looks pretty wrecked. Just don't drink and drive,, period.
Quote from: Captain Zissou on September 13, 2011, 12:10:41 PM
Quote from: ChriswUfGator on September 13, 2011, 12:06:11 PM
Quote from: tufsu1 on September 13, 2011, 11:54:31 AM
Quote from: Captain Zissou on September 13, 2011, 10:59:17 AM
I feel for Abel. While what he did was a bad choice, I'm hesitant to believe he was wholly at fault. I have been a victim of some pretty unfair stuff on 301.
sorry, but if he failed a sobriety test, he is fully at fault!
Almost nobody passes the field sobriety exercises, tufsu. They're designed to generate probable cause, not demonstrate sobriety.
This is exactly what I meant.
Chris, maybe you can elaborate on this. It seems to me the seatbelt crackdown and other things are solely to allow cops to potentially search your vehicle. Same thing with life jackets on a boat. Cops can pull you over and board for no other reason than to check your life jackets. Once on board, whatever they find is fair game. Is this correct??
I'm not trying to cheat the law, but lately it seems like cops have been overstepping their bounds.
I totally agree with you that much of it is BS to justify stops that would otherwise lack PC. The marine patrol can't board unless you give them permission. Which I never do, and no reason you should either. They can raft up alongside and make you display to them each item on the FL safety checklist, writing you a ticket for each one you don't have. That's about all they can do though, unless you're really shitfaced. They don't get the benefit of claiming nystagmus with sunglasses and smell of alcohol with a 15 knot wind blowing. Let them onboard and they go hunting for beer cans or whatever else they can't see from their own boat, there's no reason at all to let them board.
Some of them are real asses too, I always wondered how somebody getting paid to ride around in a boat all day can still be such a dick. I am seriously amazed, I'd be the most relaxed guy on the planet. The last time I went through this it was kind of funny, the guy demanded to do a safety check and eventually I see him writing a ticket, so I ask what for, he says "Expired fired extinguisher." I replied "it's got a Halon system I don't even have to carry one." He goes "Yeah but you did, and it's expired." So I said "alright so I could toss this over right now and not get a ticket?" "no then I'll write you for littering." Jackass. All about $$$$.
Abel will be fine. It will be over before he knows it. You could not have told me that back when I got mine in February. Just learn from it and dont do it again Abe!
Quote from: Non-RedNeck Westsider on September 13, 2011, 12:16:13 PM
Field Sobriety tests are a joke. Uneven pavement, dis-orientation from the flashing strobes, anxiety from the situation in general, etc.... Sure, they can be damning if you're stumbling all over the place and mush-mouthing your words, but if you're reasonably sober (take that for what it's worth) then they are completely inconclusive.
The real key is did he blow. (No, I'm not talking about the cop) If he refuses to blow, he's automatically hauled in to jail and his license is suspended until after his trial and most of these cases are reduced to a lesser charge and he avoids a DUI. It's still about $1,500 and some community service / alcohol classes
If he blew and registered over the limit - he's pretty much screwed and has to pony up for a Real attorney.
They charged him with a refusal, most of the time that means he did not blow. Sometimes the guy blows but they don't get the reading they want, so they demand he do additional tests and eventually after 2 or 3 tests the person figures out what's happening and says he's done. At which point they'll attach the intoxalyzer printouts as evidence and still charge him with refusal. That always seems especially unfair.
Unfortunately he did do the exercises, that's enough to obtain a conviction by itself depending on how bad the video is.
Thing is. Even if you blow UNDER the limit, they will still try to charge with a DUI. Happened to a co worker of mine. She was able to get the charge reduced in that situation. However, I blew over so I was screwed. LOL
If he refused to blow that was dumb. but most people THINK that your better off not blowing. If refuse, you still get charged and your license is suspended for one year versus six months. Wasnt a wise move. Guy next to me in court dreded not blowing.
(http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa111/Ocklawaha/RAILROAD%20Images/budd-rdc.jpg)
301 Solution... Mayor Brown, the track is in place from Gainesville to Jacksonville. Long past due.
OCKLAWAHA
Quote from: JeffreyS on September 13, 2011, 11:34:07 AM
Quote from: buckethead on September 13, 2011, 10:43:03 AM
HOLD THE PHONE!
If this was Rick Scott getting a DUI after a Gators game, how different would the tone of the comments be?
Yes they would be harsher. Seriously though a local staffer no matter what party is not going to incur the same vitriol as a Governor no matter what party.
If you are just trying to bust the people here on the terms that they deal differently towards others based on past events and personal opinions then I will plead guilty.
For the record it is very bad to drink and drive no matter who you are.
I should have chosen Mike Hogan as an example. Perhaps a local Tea Party booster.
I like Abel. He is good for Jacksonville. A bright spot in a dull city.
I may or may not be due multiple DUI charges, since I may or may not have driven while intoxicated on multiple occasions.
I am not advocating for his head, but merely trying to inject some objectivity into this discussion. I know without any doubt, the reason for the forbearance here is due to personality, not principle.
The United States of America: We could use more principles. (Along with all the platitudes)
Quote from: duvaldude08 on September 13, 2011, 01:07:26 PM
Thing is. Even if you blow UNDER the limit, they will still try to charge with a DUI. Happened to a co worker of mine. She was able to get the charge reduced in that situation. However, I blew over so I was screwed. LOL
If he refused to blow that was dumb. but most people THINK that your better off not blowing. If refuse, you still get charged and your license is suspended for one year versus six months. Wasnt a wise move. Guy next to me in court dreded not blowing.
I know they can and do charge you despite blowing under the legal limit. It's really not a legal limit at all, it's simply the point at which you're statutorily impaired vs. the officer having to prove impairment based on other observations.
As to blowing/not blowing, it depends. If you don't do the exercises AND don't blow, then quite likely you'll have a strong(er) argument about lack of PC for the DUI investigation in the first place, and may get anything flowing from that, including the refusal, tossed. If there was no PC for the stop, then you can appeal the DHSMV's administrative suspension of your license, and they quite likely will have to reinstate it since you can only be penalized for refusing a lawful order, and absent PC, the cop's demand that you take a breath test was unlawful. This is a separate process than fighting the refusal charge, which in FL is a separate misdemeanor.
But it's really not a terrible strategy to just refuse everything, assuming there is no other issue that's going to sink the boat before it leaves the dock, e.g. empty beer cans rolling around on the floor of the car. Do a self-check first, but if there is nothing else going on, then it's not a bad strategy. Especially if the officer's claim was, as with Harding, that he was weaving. If there were no other cars around your vehicle when you were failing to maintain a single lane of travel, then going over the white lines is likely not PC since it didn't constitute an infraction that would have entitled the officer to conduct a stop. Ditto with many of the typical excuses, failure to use a turn signal, etc.
Of course, you can always make those arguments even if you do blow, and would be spared the necessity of the DHSMV administrative appeal process if you were successful. But on the other hand, there would be actual evidence of guilt, and so if you lost your battle over PC, then you're significantly worse off at trial. And of course you risk starting the clock on our escalating series of penalties for DUI, the second, third, etc., bear significantly stiffer ramifications than a first. There are few hard and fast rules, it's very situational.
But to do what Harding did, which is do the exercises and then refuse to blow, that's really kind of silly. Even if he gets the DUI tossed, it severely limits his chances of arguing the request he take a breath test was unlawful, so he will probably get stuck with the suspension. Not good strategy.
Quote from: buckethead on September 13, 2011, 01:42:53 PM
Quote from: JeffreyS on September 13, 2011, 11:34:07 AM
Quote from: buckethead on September 13, 2011, 10:43:03 AM
HOLD THE PHONE!
If this was Rick Scott getting a DUI after a Gators game, how different would the tone of the comments be?
Yes they would be harsher. Seriously though a local staffer no matter what party is not going to incur the same vitriol as a Governor no matter what party.
If you are just trying to bust the people here on the terms that they deal differently towards others based on past events and personal opinions then I will plead guilty.
For the record it is very bad to drink and drive no matter who you are.
I should have chosen Mike Hogan as an example. Perhaps a local Tea Party booster.
I like Abel. He is good for Jacksonville. A bright spot in a dull city.
I may or may not be due multiple DUI charges, since I may or may not have driven while intoxicated on multiple occasions.
I am not advocating for his head, but merely trying to inject some objectivity into this discussion. I know without any doubt, the reason for the forbearance here is due to personality, not principle.
The United States of America: We could use more principles. (Along with all the platitudes)
I think there's no difference between coverage given to Harding and what would have been given to Hogan if it were him.
You are stating your foregone conclusion as evidence. Of what, I dunno.
But I don't think there's any difference in treatment.
::)
Quote from: buckethead on September 13, 2011, 01:56:16 PM
::)
Well why do you think the treatments are so different?
I mean, what break did Harding get cut here? They arrested him, and immediately after it made the local news channels and the newspaper, the Mayor suspended him from his post, etc.? I am not sure what more negative things could possibly have happened to him? Or are you arguing that, if this were Mike Hogan, he would have received more sympathetic treatment?
How could this possibly have turned out any worse for Harding? Let's start there...
I do not refer to any legal breaks Harding recieved. I doubt he got any. In fact, I do not doubt he has been treated at least a little unjustly. I distrust most police.
That said, the facts of the case would matter so little to many posters here, had the personality in trouble been of the teabagging/evil conservative/FBC/unpopular at MJ variety.
Deny that if you will. Your perogative.
But you have all the normal comments about "must've been doing something wrong..." and "We he failed the sobriety tests, that makes him guilty in my book" etc. And, even aside from those, the general consensus is looking like everyone pretty much agrees public officials are held to a higher standard and he screwed up.
What do you think would be different if this were Hogan? I'm really curious. Who is cutting him any kind of break?
I cannot see it proper for the mayor to react excessively to Harding's unfortunate event, as it is his first time. The game was exciting and fun, and there is always alcohol at the games. A lesson learned. Regret is strong. Nobody was hurt. Time to move on.
However "if" it happens again, then I would see it proper for the Mayor to consider asking Mr. Harding for his resignation.
I would guess there would be an outrage (here at MJ) that any notable conservative had the audacity to endanger the public by operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.
Perhaps some comments about hypocrisy... some challenges to any poster to the right of Che Guevera to denounce said notable conservative. I admit, this is wild speculation on my part, but not entirely unfounded based on experience right here at MJ.
(One of my favorite sites, BTW)
What would the general reaction (here at MJ) have been if this was Suzy Wiles?
Try to be honest.
Quote from: ChriswUfGator on September 13, 2011, 12:06:11 PM
Quote from: tufsu1 on September 13, 2011, 11:54:31 AM
Quote from: Captain Zissou on September 13, 2011, 10:59:17 AM
I feel for Abel. While what he did was a bad choice, I'm hesitant to believe he was wholly at fault. I have been a victim of some pretty unfair stuff on 301.
sorry, but if he failed a sobriety test, he is fully at fault!
Almost nobody passes the field sobriety exercises, tufsu. They're designed to generate probable cause, not demonstrate sobriety. Harding fucked up, he should have refused those.
guess I should clarify...I meant a blood alcohol level test
Quote from: tufsu1 on September 13, 2011, 02:50:00 PM
Quote from: ChriswUfGator on September 13, 2011, 12:06:11 PM
Quote from: tufsu1 on September 13, 2011, 11:54:31 AM
Quote from: Captain Zissou on September 13, 2011, 10:59:17 AM
I feel for Abel. While what he did was a bad choice, I'm hesitant to believe he was wholly at fault. I have been a victim of some pretty unfair stuff on 301.
sorry, but if he failed a sobriety test, he is fully at fault!
Almost nobody passes the field sobriety exercises, tufsu. They're designed to generate probable cause, not demonstrate sobriety. Harding fucked up, he should have refused those.
guess I should clarify...I meant a blood alcohol level test
He refused that. The only test he took was the field sobriety test.
I am sure that almost all of us posting here can look back on an instance when we said, "Oops, I shouldn't have been behind the wheel last night" but didn't get stopped for it.
Quote from: Dog Walker on September 13, 2011, 04:01:51 PM
I am sure that almost all of us posting here can look back on an instance when we said, "Oops, I shouldn't have been behind the wheel last night" but didn't get stopped for it.
Ok,,,,, and some ppl on this board have stole, sold drugs, etc. So what's your point?
Quote from: johnnyman on September 13, 2011, 04:21:06 PM
Quote from: Dog Walker on September 13, 2011, 04:01:51 PM
I am sure that almost all of us posting here can look back on an instance when we said, "Oops, I shouldn't have been behind the wheel last night" but didn't get stopped for it.
Ok,,,,, and some ppl on this board have stole, sold drugs, etc. So what's your point?
I think that Dog Walker is saying that many people are out there on a wing and a prayer. This problem is aggravated by the fact that we are so tied to our cars to get around. Yes, there are designated drivers and other safety measures, but there are many people who will get behind the wheel because they believe that they are in control or they think that they have no other options.
Quote from: buckethead on September 13, 2011, 02:27:35 PM
I would guess there would be an outrage (here at MJ) that any notable conservative had the audacity to endanger the public by operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.
I would have a little more sympathy for so-called conservatives when they get into trouble if it wasn't for the fact that they belong to a party/movement that tries to shove their morality down everyone else's throat. This is what happens when you have leaders who profess to know how everyone else should live their lives, and then they are unable to live up to their own high standards.
Not to start an anti-religious rant, but I've always thought that the Republicans would do themselves a favor by ditching that religious influence and focusing more on personal responsibility. I had hoped that's what the Tea Party movement would turn out to be (more libertarian and less religious-y), but it sounds like it's been hijacked by Republicans of another feather. That's certainly what I've seen happening locally.
Quote from: buckethead on September 13, 2011, 02:27:35 PM
What would the general reaction (here at MJ) have been if this was Suzy Wiles?
I think the usual shrill-voiced subjects would have advocated burning her at the stake.
I'm thankful that nobody was hurt or killed (including Abel), and hopefully the publicity will cause more people to think twice before they drink and drive. Abel has a lot to offer this community and I hope that he's given the opportunity to reclaim his reputation.
QuoteI’m sure the powers at be in the city will realize the assets in abilities and integrity we have in Mr. Harding and, especially because it was his first encounter with the 301 Gestapo, or any problem of this nature, will not allow this event, which may have in fact been the result of Hwy 301 Gestapo unfairness, to obscure in any way an otherwise exemplary career.
Harding messed up. He is not the first City of Jax employee to have a DUI, I know a few Sargeants who were bumped down for screwing up with a DUI, and let us not forget Theresa O'Donnell and her Suburban event where she was so intoxicated she vomited on herself, before succombing to Police. She kept her job under Peyton. Yeah, Harding screwed up, so what it was 66 in a 55, he was intoxicated and is paying the price.
Yeah, he'll lose his license for a while, which may force him to rely on JTA to get around, provided the mayor allows him back, especially with the heated debate going on now in City Hall over budget cuts. So this is the kind of thing Brown did not need, but I am sure he will handle it fairly and firmly.
Lesson learned, I am sure by Harding.
Abel Harding is a good man and a bright rising star in Jacksonville. We do not know all the facts so speculation is a little premature and unfair. All I know is regardless of the outcome, this young man deserves to be in the forefront of jacksonville's future and I wish him the very best! Matt Carlucci sr.
Quote from: mtraininjax on September 13, 2011, 07:15:40 PM
Lesson learned, I am sure by Harding.
welcome back mtrain...we've missed you
Quote from: mtraininjax on September 13, 2011, 07:15:40 PM
Yeah, he'll lose his license for a while, which may force him to rely on JTA to get around...
Lesson learned, I am sure by Harding.
Oh God Mtrain, a punishment worse then death.OCKLAWAHA
Quote from: stephendare on September 13, 2011, 09:43:34 PM
omg. would you people give me a break and spare everyone the public chest beating.
dui is a bad decision, but its common enough in this country.
let the legal system take its due course, and can we please give abel the benefit of the doubt?
He's a good guy, and a credit to the mayor's office.
I certainly hope that he keeps his job, learns from his mistake and puts the whole stupid thing behind him.
Totally Agreed Stephen.
Quote from: stephendare on September 13, 2011, 09:55:54 PM
Quote from: buckethead on September 13, 2011, 02:27:35 PM
I would guess there would be an outrage (here at MJ) that any notable conservative had the audacity to endanger the public by operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.
Perhaps some comments about hypocrisy... some challenges to any poster to the right of Che Guevera to denounce said notable conservative. I admit, this is wild speculation on my part, but not entirely unfounded based on experience right here at MJ.
(One of my favorite sites, BTW)
What would the general reaction (here at MJ) have been if this was Suzy Wiles?
Try to be honest.
this is dumb and unhelpful, buckethead, and not worthy of your intellectual abilities. Leave this "Blood of jesus" stuff to other posters!
Abel is a pretty conservative republican and former banker, who happens to be working for a democratic mayor based on his ability, not his party affiliation. I have sat across the aisle from his opinion in several occasions.
Well... That smarts.
I suppose you're right, though.
It wasn't my intention to pile on Mr Harding, but to point out what " the general reaction might have been" had it been another, less likable personality. A pretty futile endeavor.
I engaged in a stance that probably didn't need to be taken.
Sorry, folks.
As full disclosure; I have been the beneficiary of a ride home as opposed to a ride to the hooskow some time ago.
Quote
A police report on the arrest hasn't been completed because the arresting officer has been in training classes, said Hodges. He said the officer, reservist David Hughes, recounted the arrest to him over the weekend.
Hodges said he thought a field sobriety test was performed and that Harding failed. Neither urine nor blood tests were performed because they aren't normal practices under those circumstances, he said.
Read more at Jacksonville.com: http://jacksonville.com/news/crime/2011-09-14/story/law-amp-disorder-jacksonville-mayors-spokesman-refused-breath-test#ixzz1XwEFVQBn
Someone please tell me how this officer is supposed to write his report 5 days later and still recount everything that happened on Saturday night.
Seriously??? Uhmmmmm, your Honor I would like my clients case to be thrown out because of incompetence. Thank You. Nothing Further.
Quote from: Non-RedNeck Westsider on September 14, 2011, 10:47:24 AM
Quote
A police report on the arrest hasn't been completed because the arresting officer has been in training classes, said Hodges. He said the officer, reservist David Hughes, recounted the arrest to him over the weekend.
Hodges said he thought a field sobriety test was performed and that Harding failed. Neither urine nor blood tests were performed because they aren't normal practices under those circumstances, he said.
Read more at Jacksonville.com: http://jacksonville.com/news/crime/2011-09-14/story/law-amp-disorder-jacksonville-mayors-spokesman-refused-breath-test#ixzz1XwEFVQBn
Someone please tell me how this officer is supposed to write his report 5 days later and still recount everything that happened on Saturday night.
Seriously??? Uhmmmmm, your Honor I would like my clients case to be thrown out because of incompetence. Thank You. Nothing Further.
+1,000!
Quote from: tufsu1 on September 13, 2011, 11:54:31 AM
Quote from: Captain Zissou on September 13, 2011, 10:59:17 AM
I feel for Abel. While what he did was a bad choice, I'm hesitant to believe he was wholly at fault. I have been a victim of some pretty unfair stuff on 301.
sorry, but if he failed a sobriety test, he is fully at fault!
Says it all, dont drink or drive. Consider designated driver, hotel rooms, mass transit, ect all things posters here have s aid. Hats off to MJ for furnishing such an option for pubcrawl, a big reason why Jax is talking about it!
Quote from: johnnymanQuote from: Dog WalkerI am sure that almost all of us posting here can look back on an instance when we said, "Oops, I shouldn't have been behind the wheel last night" but didn't get stopped for it.
Ok,,,,, and some ppl on this board have stole, sold drugs, etc. So what's your point?
How the hell did you get from DW saying that most of us probably have a oops in our past about being behind the wheel, when perhaps we shouldn't have, to saying some people have stolen, sold drugs, etc.? That's one hell of a jump
Quote from: Non-RedNeck WestsiderQuote
A police report on the arrest hasn't been completed because the arresting officer has been in training classes, said Hodges. He said the officer, reservist David Hughes, recounted the arrest to him over the weekend.
Hodges said he thought a field sobriety test was performed and that Harding failed. Neither urine nor blood tests were performed because they aren't normal practices under those circumstances, he said.
Read more at Jacksonville.com: http://jacksonville.com/news/crime/2011-09-14/story/law-amp-disorder-jacksonville-mayors-spokesman-refused-breath-test#ixzz1XwEFVQBn
Someone please tell me how this officer is supposed to write his report 5 days later and still recount everything that happened on Saturday night.
Seriously??? Uhmmmmm, your Honor I would like my clients case to be thrown out because of incompetence. Thank You. Nothing Further.
Why is it that the officer didn't write his report that night, since when are they allowed to wait at all for it? That alone could constitute dismissal of charges
I briefly saw a headline on the Times-Union website this morning stating that Harding has resigned from Mayor Brown's office. For some reason, though, I couldn't get the article to come up, and now the headline itself is gone.
EDIT: The article is now back up.
http://jacksonville.com/news/metro/2011-09-23/story/abel-harding-resigns-jacksonville-city-hall (http://jacksonville.com/news/metro/2011-09-23/story/abel-harding-resigns-jacksonville-city-hall)
I hate to hear that for Abel and for Jacksonville. But I agree completely that he will land on his feet.
I can't tell you how disappointed I am in the Mayor's office over this.
Quote from: Kay on September 23, 2011, 10:48:34 AM
I can't tell you how disappointed I am in the Mayor's office over this.
Much detail was not provided so you cant really say your disappointed. We dont know if he choose to resign or if he was forced. Do we?
This is too bad. But he'll certainly come out of this no worse for the wear.
Quote from: duvaldude08 on September 23, 2011, 10:56:28 AM
Quote from: Kay on September 23, 2011, 10:48:34 AM
I can't tell you how disappointed I am in the Mayor's office over this.
Much detail was not provided so you cant really say your disappointed. We dont know if he choose to resign or if he was forced. Do we?
I think I can say exactly what I said.
So, wait - he was pulled over and arrested for DUI? But refused the breathalyzer test, as is his right, and there's no evidence otherwise that he was drunk? And the cop took how long afterwards to file the report? And the police are confirming there was no reckless driving involved but are charging him with that anyway?
So basically he was speeding and it cost him his job? Is that right?
^That's pretty much it, yeah. Evidently the mayor's spokesman must be above suspicion.
Abel did the right thing, all the way around. It was clearly his decision to make, as he has said.
Alcoholism is a serious problem in our society. He needs to find out if he has a problem with drinking.
Only he can answer that question, in terms of avoiding the event that just occurred. For the four to
four thousand posts one can make in Abels favor, just one in which one has lost a child, mother, brother, close friend
defeats the argument.
If anything, this case proves the need more accessible public mass transit for those who choose to drink (responsibly)
Quote from: hillary supporter on September 23, 2011, 03:52:53 PM
Abel did the right thing, all the way around. It was clearly his decision to make, as he has said.
Alcoholism is a serious problem in our society. He needs to find out if he has a problem with drinking.
Only he can answer that question, in terms of avoiding the event that just occurred. For the four to
four thousand posts one can make in Abels favor, just one in which one has lost a child, mother, brother, close friend
defeats the argument.
If anything, this case proves the need more accessible public mass transit for those who choose to drink (responsibly)
What? No proof of drinking. He was stopped for speeding. Are you telling me everyone stopped for speeding also was drinking?
Quote from: Kay on September 23, 2011, 04:13:09 PM
Quote from: hillary supporter on September 23, 2011, 03:52:53 PM
Abel did the right thing, all the way around. It was clearly his decision to make, as he has said.
Alcoholism is a serious problem in our society. He needs to find out if he has a problem with drinking.
Only he can answer that question, in terms of avoiding the event that just occurred. For the four to
four thousand posts one can make in Abels favor, just one in which one has lost a child, mother, brother, close friend
defeats the argument.
If anything, this case proves the need more accessible public mass transit for those who choose to drink (responsibly)
What? No proof of drinking. He was stopped for speeding. Are you telling me everyone stopped for speeding also was drinking?
There's no question that alcoholism is a huge problem in society. That fact can't and shouldn't ever be diminished.
You make an assumption about the incident. Have you considered that it is very possible that some people who have had nothing to drink have been unjustly pulled over and accused of drinking & driving in Hampton, Florida, or other similar rural communities of the same ilk?
Does it make sense that a small rural town of a few-hundred writes as many traffic tickets in a 400-foot span of Highway 301 where the speed limit changes from 65mph to 55mph as many of Florida's largest cities? Is this fulfilling the police department's traditional stated mission "to protect and serve"?
You suggesting that Abel "did the right thing all the way around" and your assertion that "he needs to find out if he has a problem with drinking" are fairly strong (and ignorant/presumptive) character statements on a public message board - especially from someone posting anonymously. (If I am mistaken and your first name is "Hillary" and your last name is "Supporter", then please accept my full apology).
It's a crack-up to see you use this incident to make a case for "Accessible Mass Transit along the Highway 301 corridor for those who choose to drink (responsibly)".
I feel badly for Abel and the situation. It is a shame he has resigned. The irony , to me at least is, there are some out there who have done a hell of a lot worse things , and keep their positions.
Quote from: Steve_Lovett on September 23, 2011, 04:30:30 PM
Quote from: Kay on September 23, 2011, 04:13:09 PM
Quote from: hillary supporter on September 23, 2011, 03:52:53 PM
Abel did the right thing, all the way around. It was clearly his decision to make, as he has said.
Alcoholism is a serious problem in our society. He needs to find out if he has a problem with drinking.
Only he can answer that question, in terms of avoiding the event that just occurred. For the four to
four thousand posts one can make in Abels favor, just one in which one has lost a child, mother, brother, close friend
defeats the argument.
If anything, this case proves the need more accessible public mass transit for those who choose to drink (responsibly)
What? No proof of drinking. He was stopped for speeding. Are you telling me everyone stopped for speeding also was drinking?
There's no question that alcoholism is a huge problem in society. That fact can't and shouldn't ever be diminished.
You make an assumption about the incident. Have you considered that it is very possible that some people who have had nothing to drink have been unjustly pulled over and accused of drinking & driving in Hampton, Florida, or other similar rural communities of the same ilk?
Does it make sense that a small rural town of a few-hundred writes as many traffic tickets in a 400-foot span of Highway 301 where the speed limit changes from 65mph to 55mph as many of Florida's largest cities? Is this fulfilling the police department's traditional stated mission "to protect and serve"?
You suggesting that Abel "did the right thing all the way around" and your assertion that "he needs to find out if he has a problem with drinking" are fairly strong (and ignorant/presumptive) character statements on a public message board - especially from someone posting anonymously. (If I am mistaken and your first name is "Hillary" and your last name is "Supporter", then please accept my full apology).
It's a crack-up to see you use this incident to make a case for "Accessible Mass Transit along the Highway 301 corridor for those who choose to drink (responsibly)".
Theres little to assume at this point
1) He refused the breathalyzer test
2) he resigned his office over the issue
3) While it may not be able to prove this without any doubt, these two points should leave any person to believe that Abel was under the influence beyond reasonable doubt.
You acknowledged yourself how alcoholism is a huge problem. The only way one can work towards a solution to seeing if they have a problem is to look at themselves and decide that themselves. I find it very reasonable and far from "strong/ ignorant/presumptive" that if one is arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, that person should see if they have a problem with alcohol.
I believe a large number of traffic accidents, injuries and deaths attributed to alcohol were committed by people who didn't consider themselves alcoholics. If such isnt true, why do they drink and drive?
While its senseless that the town does enforce the traffic laws in such a corrupt manner, its not a secret. The AAA even has road signs noting such to the outskirts of the town. Its been like this for 20 years.
Ive personally used mass transit as i planned to drink and enjoy a public event. That is "drinking responsibly." The problem is that isn't an option available heading to Gainesville. Such would give one another alternative to drinking and driving.
Kay, while Abel was stopped for speeding, the officer suspected he was drinking. The officer has the right to require a breathalyzer if he suspects such, just has they have the right to set up periodic road blocks to check for drivers under the influence .The only reason there was no proof of drinking was because he refused the test. Since 1)the officer requested the test and 2) he refused it, its logical to conclude he wouldnt pass the test. Because he was drinking.
Quote from: Springfielder on September 14, 2011, 05:26:06 PM
Quote from: Non-RedNeck WestsiderQuote
A police report on the arrest hasn't been completed because the arresting officer has been in training classes, said Hodges. He said the officer, reservist David Hughes, recounted the arrest to him over the weekend.
Hodges said he thought a field sobriety test was performed and that Harding failed. Neither urine nor blood tests were performed because they aren't normal practices under those circumstances, he said.
Read more at Jacksonville.com: http://jacksonville.com/news/crime/2011-09-14/story/law-amp-disorder-jacksonville-mayors-spokesman-refused-breath-test#ixzz1XwEFVQBn
Someone please tell me how this officer is supposed to write his report 5 days later and still recount everything that happened on Saturday night.
Seriously??? Uhmmmmm, your Honor I would like my clients case to be thrown out because of incompetence. Thank You. Nothing Further.
Why is it that the officer didn't write his report that night, since when are they allowed to wait at all for it? That alone could constitute dismissal of charges
I agree. I wish , given Abel's track record (perfect, up to this incident) The Mayor's office would reinstate him. Sadly, I doubt that will be the case.
At the end of the day.. we all make mistakes and some of them our costly. I know companies that terminate you if you get arrested for ANYTHING. If he was forced to resign, he will learn from this experience and move forward. Ive been in his shoes and LUCKILY I didnt lose my job, and I thought I was going too. We often pay big for our mistakes, big or small.
Quote from: hillary supporter on September 23, 2011, 10:43:52 PM
Quote from: Steve_Lovett on September 23, 2011, 04:30:30 PM
Quote from: Kay on September 23, 2011, 04:13:09 PM
Quote from: hillary supporter on September 23, 2011, 03:52:53 PM
Abel did the right thing, all the way around. It was clearly his decision to make, as he has said.
Alcoholism is a serious problem in our society. He needs to find out if he has a problem with drinking.
Only he can answer that question, in terms of avoiding the event that just occurred. For the four to
four thousand posts one can make in Abels favor, just one in which one has lost a child, mother, brother, close friend
defeats the argument.
If anything, this case proves the need more accessible public mass transit for those who choose to drink (responsibly)
What? No proof of drinking. He was stopped for speeding. Are you telling me everyone stopped for speeding also was drinking?
There's no question that alcoholism is a huge problem in society. That fact can't and shouldn't ever be diminished.
You make an assumption about the incident. Have you considered that it is very possible that some people who have had nothing to drink have been unjustly pulled over and accused of drinking & driving in Hampton, Florida, or other similar rural communities of the same ilk?
Does it make sense that a small rural town of a few-hundred writes as many traffic tickets in a 400-foot span of Highway 301 where the speed limit changes from 65mph to 55mph as many of Florida's largest cities? Is this fulfilling the police department's traditional stated mission "to protect and serve"?
You suggesting that Abel "did the right thing all the way around" and your assertion that "he needs to find out if he has a problem with drinking" are fairly strong (and ignorant/presumptive) character statements on a public message board - especially from someone posting anonymously. (If I am mistaken and your first name is "Hillary" and your last name is "Supporter", then please accept my full apology).
It's a crack-up to see you use this incident to make a case for "Accessible Mass Transit along the Highway 301 corridor for those who choose to drink (responsibly)".
Theres little to assume at this point
1) He refused the breathalyzer test
2) he resigned his office over the issue
3) While it may not be able to prove this without any doubt, these two points should leave any person to believe that Abel was under the influence beyond reasonable doubt.
You acknowledged yourself how alcoholism is a huge problem. The only way one can work towards a solution to seeing if they have a problem is to look at themselves and decide that themselves. I find it very reasonable and far from "strong/ ignorant/presumptive" that if one is arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, that person should see if they have a problem with alcohol.
I believe a large number of traffic accidents, injuries and deaths attributed to alcohol were committed by people who didn't consider themselves alcoholics. If such isnt true, why do they drink and drive?
While its senseless that the town does enforce the traffic laws in such a corrupt manner, its not a secret. The AAA even has road signs noting such to the outskirts of the town. Its been like this for 20 years.
Ive personally used mass transit as i planned to drink and enjoy a public event. That is "drinking responsibly." The problem is that isn't an option available heading to Gainesville. Such would give one another alternative to drinking and driving.
Kay, while Abel was stopped for speeding, the officer suspected he was drinking. The officer has the right to require a breathalyzer if he suspects such, just has they have the right to set up periodic road blocks to check for drivers under the influence .The only reason there was no proof of drinking was because he refused the test. Since 1)the officer requested the test and 2) he refused it, its logical to conclude he wouldnt pass the test. Because he was drinking.
Hillary... He had a right to refuse the breathalyzer test. I am not 100% certain, but I would bet anything that because of the public knowledge of the incident , he may have been asked to resign. Was he drinking? I don't know, I wasn't there.. maybe he was , but I seriously doubt Abel is the type of person who would knowingly drink excessively and then get behind a wheel. I know that speed zone too well , and I (personally) think that some of the officers in that area practice very questionably . There is no doubt in my mind that Abel has paid dearly for this incident,,I regret that he resigned over it.. As I stated in a previous post, certainly there are others out there who have done far worse , and kept their position. I do hope the Mayor's office / Abel reconsider this. I just do not personally see it such a serious incident that he should have had to step down. That is not to say I think it is right or smart to drink and drive, but simply that the circumstances point to something that is less than an airtight case, to say the least, against him.
Just my 2 cents. No retail value.
Re Timkin, duvaldude08.
Yes exactly... this is why i supported his decision wholeheartedly.
In September 1976, George Bush was arrested for driving while intoxicated. He would later decide to quit drinking. And he would become our 43rd President. I see no less for Abel.
I think I'm allowed to reply to threads about me, but I'm not sure of the etiquette on that. :)
That aside, "Abel Harding" is my real name (shocking, I know....a real name on a message board) and I'm more than happy to answer questions in person from any of you. I think the fact that the charges were dropped say everything that needs to be said about the incident. However, if you have additional questions, e-mail me at abelharding@gmail.com. I'm happy to schedule a time to meet with you in person and discuss.
I look forward to attending one of the MetroJacksonville meetings in the near future - that's something my schedule didn't permit in the past.
Quote from: AbelH on September 24, 2011, 02:45:14 PM
I think I'm allowed to reply to threads about me, but I'm not sure of the etiquette on that. :)
That aside, "Abel Harding" is my real name (shocking, I know....a real name on a message board) and I'm more than happy to answer questions in person from any of you. I think the fact that the charges were dropped say everything that needs to be said about the incident. However, if you have additional questions, e-mail me at abelharding@gmail.com. I'm happy to schedule a time to meet with you in person and discuss.
I look forward to attending one of the MetroJacksonville meetings in the near future - that's something my schedule didn't permit in the past.
Glad to hear your ok Abel! We wish you the best!
Quote from: AbelH on September 24, 2011, 02:45:14 PM
I think I'm allowed to reply to threads about me, but I'm not sure of the etiquette on that. :)
That aside, "Abel Harding" is my real name (shocking, I know....a real name on a message board) and I'm more than happy to answer questions in person from any of you. I think the fact that the charges were dropped say everything that needs to be said about the incident. However, if you have additional questions, e-mail me at abelharding@gmail.com. I'm happy to schedule a time to meet with you in person and discuss.
I look forward to attending one of the MetroJacksonville meetings in the near future - that's something my schedule didn't permit in the past.
You don't have to answer squat to me, Abel. I know how the 301 cops operate. I'm guessing they bumped it down because they realized there was no PC for a DUI investigation at all, they should have simply issued a speeding ticket and let you go on your way. Frankly, the reckless can probably get tossed as well (unless you already made a deal) and your license suspension can likely be avoided by challenging the administrative suspension with the DHSMV, given the facts at least as reported that I've read. I think it's incredibly unfortunate and premature for your relationship with City Hall to come to such an early end over such a minor issue in a sterling career. Ignore the people who are giving you moral lectures on "Well he musta done SOMETHING wrong..." it's irrelevant and immature. As they say...there but for the grace of God go, well, all of us.
+1
Quote from: ChriswUfGatorQuote from: AbelHI think I'm allowed to reply to threads about me, but I'm not sure of the etiquette on that. :)
That aside, "Abel Harding" is my real name (shocking, I know....a real name on a message board) and I'm more than happy to answer questions in person from any of you. I think the fact that the charges were dropped say everything that needs to be said about the incident. However, if you have additional questions, e-mail me at abelharding@gmail.com. I'm happy to schedule a time to meet with you in person and discuss.
I look forward to attending one of the MetroJacksonville meetings in the near future - that's something my schedule didn't permit in the past.
You don't have to answer squat to me, Abel. I know how the 301 cops operate. I'm guessing they bumped it down because they realized there was no PC for a DUI investigation at all, they should have simply issued a speeding ticket and let you go on your way. Frankly, the reckless can probably get tossed as well (unless you already made a deal) and your license suspension can likely be avoided by challenging the administrative suspension with the DHSMV, given the facts at least as reported that I've read. I think it's incredibly unfortunate and premature for your relationship with City Hall to come to such an early end over such a minor issue in a sterling career. Ignore the people who are giving you moral lectures on "Well he musta done SOMETHING wrong..." it's irrelevant and immature. As they say...there but for the grace of God go, well, all of us.
Well said.....+ 100
IMHO, it takes a secure and classy person both to respond directly to what is written about him here, but also to remove himself as a possible problem for the administration that had hired him. I don't know Mr. Harding personally, but judging by what he has done will bet that he fits very comfortably within the definition of "gentleman".
+1,000,000
Every time I see someone post on this Harding thread, I find myself wishing we could somehow end the posting on this particular title. This is because the very title "Mayorial Spokesman Able Harding Arrested" is simply a "negative". It is of course true, but I am wondering if the title will be thrown up on the front page of MJ for months. In other words, we are perpetuating a negative image for Able. I know that if I were to have a thread about me being arrested, I would wish it to end as soon a possible.
Therefore, I have a suggestion. What do you posters, who are really concerned about Able, and think highly of him, as I do, think about beginning a new thread with a positive title. How about something like.... "Guess Able's next challenge".... or "Hope Able stays close to downtown". ... or "I have confidence in Able's abilities and future success."
Any any case, it would be wonderful to remove the negative title by some means because I am afraid that every time it leaves the front page, someone will want to wish him well, and it will reappear. This negative title could go on for years. I realize that we all wish the best for Able, and have confidence in his character and integrity, but we need to move on, at least from the current thread title.
I offer for someone to choose a title, start the new thread, and then perhaps we can allow this title to go into history.
Good idea, ron!
Looks like the moderators agree...
The title has been changed.
I am glad the title was changed, and I wish Abel the very best.
Good job, MJ!
Excellent idea, Ron. I am glad that the title has changed. Abel deserves a chance to move on...