In re DMT officially has a verdict: former Allegan County Michigan Judge Roberts Kengis erred when he ruled email communications were fighting words constituting a true threat, and falsely imprisoned an individual for five days for what was protected speech.
This case demonstrates the outrageous lengths Michigan Judges and Prosecutors will go to in silencing citizens.
DMT, the subject of the case, was charged with probation violations for sending emails with expletives, expressing upset at his lawyer, disgraced attorney Wayne Crowe, with subpar performance.
Wayne Crowe received suspension for multiple unethical behaviors. The Michigan Attorney Discipline Board suspended Crowe for 90 days, effective February 12, 2025.
Today, February 19, 2025, the Michigan Court of Appeals released its opinion, stating,
Although respondent’s language might provoke violence if delivered in person, the fact that it was communicated via email – “far removed from any potential violence” – renders it unlikely to provoke a violent reaction. Here, the medium of communication is a critical factor in determining whether the speech constitutes fighting words, and the trial court erred by disregarding it.
In re DMT, Michigan Court of Appeals, February 19, 2025
It’s a big win for civil rights and free speech in Michigan with potentially rippling effects.
Former Judge Roberts Kengis frequently abused his power and weaponized the Allegan County Sheriff’s department to stifle free speech. This verdict likely opens the door for multiple civil rights lawsuits.
It begs the question: how many other cases are impacted by Roberts Kengis unconstitutional behavior?
Update, 3/6/2025
Donald Talonen, DMT, the subject of the case, has provided video of his unconstitutional arrest. Michigan COA found that then Judge Roberts Kengis wrongfully incarcerated him for five days.
