Event Title

The Jewish Law Student Association (JLSA) presents: THE HONORABLE JUDGE POLSTER An Interactive Discussion on the Amish Beard Cutting Case.

Event Series Title

Jewish Law Students Association

Presenters

Dan Polster, Cleveland State UniversityFollow

Document Type

Presentation

Date

3-23-2015

Comments

Judge Dan Polster presents to an audience consisting of Cleveland Marshall College of Law Students, Staff, Alumni and the general public regarding the Amish hair-and beard-chopping case in which the victims were restrained while their hair, a symbol of their faith, was cut. Samuel Mullet Sr., the group's leader was given a 15 year sentence (now reduced to 10 years 9 months). Mullet did not participate in the attacks but was influential upon the other group members.

Judge Polster discusses hate crimes in general and the reduction of the sentences as well. Polster remains convinced that the attacks were "substantially motivated by the victims' religion." Polster feels the defendants inflicted trauma on the victims and trampled on their First Amendment right of religious freedom.

Recommended Citation

An Interactive Discussion on the Amish Beard Cutting Case, by Judge Dan Polster. Sponsored by the Jewish Law Student Association (JLSA) at Cleveland-Marshall College of Law (March 23, 2015).