Depression Postpones Allen Stanford Ponzi Scheme Trial
Allen Stanford, accused perpetrator of a $7 billion Ponzi scheme has convinced a federal judge to postpone his criminal trial for reason of incompetence. Why is this man incompetent to withstand trial? Depression.
Depression is a serious disease affecting millions around the world. In many cases the disease can make simple tasks like making breakfast or tying one’s shoes nearly impossible. The unfortunate reality is that more than a few of Stanford’s victims are feeling this way. They have lost their life savings; retirement has become impossible, and for many the pure shame of being a victim is a badge of dishonor that will follow them for the rest of their lives. For these victims, and any other individual suffering from depression, the world doesn’t wait – it simply continues turning, often worsening the condition.
But Mr. Stanford, who swindled thousands with bravado and reckless abandon (private jets and polo ponies for everyone) and robbed the public of its ability to trust the financial system gets a break, some time to recuperate. Did Stanford pause his fraud when his victims became depressed?
The constitutional protections afforded criminals are at the heart of any democracy ("innocent till proven guilty") and should remain sacrosanct. But when "depression" brought on by the fact that you stole $7 billion from innocent investors, is your excuse, I have to draw the line and side with the prosecutor and aggrieved investors. "Mr. Stanford it's time to admit your guilt (which is obvious to all) or go to trial today to clear your "good name".
Steven N. Berk has over twenty years of litigation experience spanning both the private and public sectors. His practice ranges from representing Fortune 500 Companies, to consumers. Steven is based in Washington, D.C. and founded Berk Law in May 2009....
