Episode 8 Update | SCOTUS Decisions

Hey y’all! In episode 8, I discussed a few cases from the Supreme Court’s current term. Well, the Court has issued rulings for some of them, and I didn’t want to leave you hanging!

Madison v. Alabama: In a 5-3 decision (John Roberts sided with the liberals, and Kavanaugh was excluded) the Court ruled that while a person may be executed if they do not remember a crime, a person can’t be executed if they do not understand why the state wants to execute them. The test is if the person comprehends why they are being executed, not their memory of the crime itself.

Nielsen v. Preap: In a 5-4 decision, the Court expanded a mandatory-detention provision and held that immigrants who have committed certain crimes are not entitled to a bond hearing and once detained can be held in federal custody until their removal proceedings are resolved. This is a horrible decision given the current administration’s stance on illegal immigration. For more information: https://www.jurist.org/news/2019/03/supreme-court-rules-immigrants-do-not-have-right-to-bond-hearing/

Armed Career Criminal Act Cases

The ACCA imposes a 15-year mandatory minimum prison sentence on any federal firearms offender who has three or more convictions for a “violent” felony or serious drug offense.

Stokeling v. US: In a 5-4 decision the Court ruled state robbery statutes that require “resistance … overcome by physical force,” even if the force used is “minimal,” are sufficient to satisfy the prior-conviction requirement of the federal Armed Career Criminal Act. This is problematic because purse snatching and pick-pocketing can amount to violent felonies for purposes of a federal law. For more information: https://www.nytimes.com/2019/01/15/us/politics/supreme-court-violent-felony-purse-snatching.html

US v. Stitt and Sims (consolidated cases): In an unanimous decision, the Court ruled the term “burglary” in the Armed Career Criminal Act includes burglary of a structure or vehicle that has been adapted or is customarily used for sleeping.

Taking a Look Back on 2018... Getting Ready for 2019

Was 2018 Good to You?

Well, I made it through (and so did you)! I’m a little heavier, (physically and mentally) but I’m still here ready to do bigger and better things in 2019. 

This year taught me a lot.  The importance of boundaries, celebrating my accomplishments, focusing on what brings me joy (hello, RTB Podcast), and lastly, the importance of not waiting until the right moment to do something.  The right moment is now.

A good friend of mine (hey, Taupecoat!) sent me a guide from Happy Black Women that helps you review the current year and prepare for the upcoming year. I thought it was extremely helpful. Here’s the link if you’re interested.

Here’s to a JOYOUS and PROSPEROUS 2019.

Much Love,

Iman