I hate the USA Patriot Act, but in the case of David Banach, I'm torn.

On the one hand he:

• Aimed a green laser pointer at a flying jet and a helicopter.
• Is a fiber-optic technician by trade, so he obviously knows the risks of laser radiation and blindness.
• Talked to the FBI without a lawyer present.
• Blamed his daughter for endangering the jet to avoid taking responsibility.

On the other hand he:

• Could go to jail for 25 years and pay up to $500,000 for being a dumb American male.
• Is not connected to terrorism, and at the very worst is just not very aware of the consequences of his actions.
• Is being prosecuted because no actual terrorists were found, and lots of people will look foolish if he's not found guilty of something.

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