Count me in on this Jim! I will donate the Cover Art Inks from The First Issue Of Mind Hunter Omega. Along with a Signed first issue of Mind Hunter Omega.
http://aycu07.webshots.com/image/20126/2005609767429700827_rs.jpg
 

totally jim im in too. i just donated 20 bucks
 

Is there more we can find out about this case?
This sounds like something that could happen to many other retailers as well.
I'm glad that the CBLDF exitst for cases like that and is taking action.
I will do what I can to help. Even though I'm living far, far away.
 

The facts of the case are that a retailer screwed up and gave a copy of a comic book from Free Comic Book Day that contained nudity of both male and female gentialia to minors as a Halloween treat as part of a community shin-dig. The only info I've been able to dig up at this point is here:
http://www.comicsreporter.com/index.php/briefings/commentary/2645/

I don't know... after reading the article it seems more like Gordon Lee realized he messed up (as i would hope he wouldn't intentionally do this) and is looking for someone to bail him out. Without knowing the details of the charges themselves its a tough call to make because it's not mentioned that prosecutors are going after anything or anyone associated with the comic itself. just the man that put it in the hands of minors. In which case, it's no different then the corner newstand selling a copy of Playboy to a kid. They aren't looking to censor the material or inhibit any rights of comic creators, they just want to punish the retailer for being a moron.

I'm all for the CBLDF protecting the rights of creators from censorship and aiding in whatever legal battles arise as a result, but that is not the issue that is at hand in this case. Jim, if you can in any way provide the resoning behind the CBLDF in defending this man and provide any details to justify their actions, I'll be more then happy to make a donation. Until then, as a parent, I have to go with the notion that if it was my kid... I'd be pretty pissed this shmuck was handing this comic out. Maybe not to the extent of sending him to court, but there would definietly be a personal visit paid to him to make sure he remembers to not let it ever happen again.
 

I, like many others have been curious as to what the heck got him in so much trouble.

I did some research. You are correct. What happened is Gordon Lee's shop (Legends) had some, shall we say, "mature" comics they were giving away for Free Comic Day. Unfortunately, a copy of this comic made it's way to the backroom, and then to a stack of comics given to trick-or-treaters. And, the comic was then handed to ONE child, who was thought to be age 9, but later realized to be 6. (For whatever reason, the age difference seems to have made Leigh Patterson even more furious. I guess that goes to show the mentality she has. I dont think there is a difference (legally) between 6 and 9).

One of the charges is based on a rarely used state law requiring "adult material" to be concealed in an envelope or bag. Since it is a rarely used law, it appears to be used maliciously. And, the difference between what Mr. Lee did and the example you cite (Newstand vendor selling a copy of Playboy) is two-fold:
1. Intentional distribution to a minor. It's obvious Mr. Gordon's staff or he himself made an error. It's quite easy to see how it ended up in the stack. Unless one goes through each and every comic to ensure it's properness, it simply got picked up, and got caught up with other comics. The vendor selling a Playboy magazine would know the child was underage, and what was being sold.
2. Playboy is sexual in manner. The comic contains nude drawings. Little or no difference in naked cupids, museums displaying nude statues, etc.

And, I have to agree, if I were a parent and my child received this item, I'd be pretty ticked. BUT, to expect jail time? i dont think so.
On the surface, it seems like a case of censorship. It is not. It is indeed a case of distribution of sexual materials to a minor.

Why the CBLD is assisting: (Note, the amount is above $80,000 now)
"Charles Brownstein, executive director of the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund, which has so far spent $40,000 on the Gordon Lee case, finds the law especially troubling because it would apply even if Lee had given the comic to an adult. “If a customer takes home a New Yorker with a photograph of a nude protestor, he could be facing charges,” says Brownstein. “We’re not just talking about sex here.” He adds that a conviction could make it easier for local law enforcement to intimidate small booksellers who stock controversial books. “Comic book retailers are not well-capitalized businesses,” he says. “Prosecutors know that these guys are going to want to cut a plea. If they’re trying to create a precedent it makes sense to go after the retailers.”

Leigh Patterson's reason for prosecuting:
For Rome’s district attorney, Leigh Patterson, precedents and free speech have nothing to do with Gordon Lee. “I guess the main reason that we have the case is because the comic was distributed to a child,” says Patterson, noting that the giveaway was part of a neighborhood trick-or-treat event and was thus explicitly intended for children. “There’s a big difference between a child sneaking into a Rated-R movie and a child trick-or-treating on Broad Street. I don’t think any parent would want their nine year old to look at something like that.”

While I agree with the idea, the reality is maliciously prosecuting Mr. Lee. It was an unfortunate error. But, that is all it is.
I disagree with the ACLU attorney, but, to a certain degree agree:
Alan Begner, an Atlanta civil liberties lawyer hired by Brownstein’s group to represent Lee, begs to differ. He has made a career of arguing on behalf of pornography sellers and finds the furor aroused by Bertozzi’s non-sexual depiction of pre-War Paris somewhat bewildering. “Picasso is not erect [in the comic book]. I don’t see what is wrong with showing a kid a comic book of an event that’s factual. Are these Greek and Roman statues harmful to minors?” (The prosecution has a different take on Picasso’s state of arousal – or lack thereof – while the artist agrees with Begner: “Anybody that has a penis can tell you that when you walk around it moves around,” says Bertozzi.)

Begner, along with local co-consul Paul Cadle, argue that Lee’s was an honest mistake and that an apology should suffice. They filed a motion on May 2, 2005 to get the felony charge thrown out on grounds that another misdemeanor charge – distribution of harmful materials to a minor – amounts to the same thing. “They looked for a way to create a felony by using a law that doesn’t apply,” says Begner. Though Patterson argues that the district attorney’s office has done the only thing it can, given the complaint and the law, the seeming disconnect between the possible punishment and the crime raises an obvious question: given all the kids who happen upon actual pornography, why is Lee, a comic book retailer, facing charges?"

Finally, is what we are seeing a retaliation for a previous run-in with the city?

In fact, this is not his first run-in with a Georgia obscenity law. In a 1993 case, Lee was convicted of selling a pornographic comic book to an adult. In the process, says Cadle, who defended him in that case, police illegally seized hundreds of “obscene” comic books, and refused to return them. Cadle sued the city and the district attorney’s office on Lee’s behalf and won an $18,000 judgment along with a court order requiring the return of the books. “I think what we’re seeing today is in part retaliation from them,” says Begner. Paterson denies this, saying that she did not work on the 1993 case and that the prior conviction is only significant as an aggravating factor. Cadle did not comment on possible retaliation, saying only “I think [Lee] would be possibly facing a stiffer penalty if convicted. You’d rather take a client into court who has no record.”
 

If your info is true...
I agree with your thoughts...
Atula
 

Google Gordon Lee; Rome Ga.; or DA Leigh Patterson. It seems very plain and simple malicious prescution to me.
I was hoping Jim Lee would be able to respond; but, he seems too busy. And, I suppose in his haste, he assumed he gave a better description of what happened. So, I did some research, and that's what I came up with.
 

I'll try to do whatever I can do.
 

Normally, I don't even give these any type of consideration. But, I think this is so bad it deserves attention.
I'll be keeping this situation in my prayers, and when I wake up, will post a note in my blog, bulletin, and on my website. I'll also prayerfully consider what I can do to help.
 

I'm in I will donate what I can although right now I don't have much but like I said I'll give what I can and double kudos for you jim
 

what if you're a nobody comic artist like me? can you.. or even should you donate art? i think i'll give cash. though i'd be pretty sweet if i could become all vigilante and donate the blood of those against us.
 

I'm wondering the same thing. I'll most likely donate money, but I'd love to donate art as well.
 

I would like to add that more can be found on this page:

The Comics Reporter

Also, here's Gordon Lee's Store, Legends, and his MySpace. When this is all finished with, I'm certain he'll be happy to know all the friends he has in the world of comic creators and fans.

- JD Edmond -
 

This is absolute bull. Okay, I don't have ALL the facts and I tend to have a bias when it comes to the "Stars and Bars" states, but I don't see how this case could even hold up in a court if it was presided over by a pile of rancid anchovies.

This sort of thing harks of a greater censorship issue if I ever saw one and I will, once more, donate to CBDLF. I hope to one day need it's protection myself.

- JD Edmond -
 

what exactly is he accusted of?
 

The systematic destruction of our Constitution and Bill of Rights has been underway for quite some time. All the while our Executive Branch of government gleefully tramples every set of checks and balances put forth by the original framers of the Constitution. It is a sad time to be an American. The rich may rape and pillage, and all the while they are participating in sicker things privately than most of us would ever contemplate.

This being where we are as a people, it sickens me to see the Right try to witch-hunt a comic shop proprietor. A fucking comic book guy. They are shameless. Yes, totally without shame.

While Mr. Lee has been an arrogant snot in the three occasions I have met him (once at a con that I PAID him to appear), I'm supporting this cause 100%. I have donated $50 and encourage any and all to do the same, or at least to do whatever is within your means.

Stay strong America...the Goose-steppers are on the march....
 

I will always support the fund.
 

Unjustices always need to be righted but it's very vague as to what's really going on here, maybe if I knew what it is this guy is really being persecuted for it would be easier to donate to this cause. I grew up reading comics and believe that they were an integral part of my upbringing and of our culture as a whole. It's just not clearly pointed out what it is these prosecuters say it is this man's done. I guess what I'm asking is just what it is I'm being asked to stand up for? I'm almost sure you have a good reason but I just really need to know more...
 

I owe everything to comics and as an amateur creator, I will contribute to the cause of one of our own because comic book creators are outlaws because through sequential imagery, we can make the impossible possible and let the world see the aspects of our imagination and also inspire others so I will contribute some of my best work and my prayers go out to him, his family and everyone who is taking the time show their love in this time of need. This is from the front desk of sketchodisiac AKA Devon Lamont Camel.
 

Dude, I would totally dig anything at that auction, I wish you were more specific on the charges though, best of luck to you and Gordon for all your future endeavors, never give up, never surrender, vengeance shall be ours at last.
 

Hi,

I was just wondering, what exactly are his charges now? What types of material did he allegedly distribute to minors? Can you elaborate a bit more, or is there a place online to find out more about the situation? This smacks of some Frederick Wertham type BS, but I'd like to know the facts first.
 

I live in Atlanta not 30 mins from Rome. There needs to be more press on this situation!
 

It's terrifying to see our 1st Amendment rights eroding away like this. Great job on talking about this, and keep up the good fight!
 

I'm in Gordon's shop every Wednesday to pick up my new comics, and his support for us in our attempts to get our little self published books up and going has been nothing short of spectacular. It's really great to see one of the biggest names in the industry stand up for Gordon and for what's right. The guy has truly been through hell and deserves a break. Unfortunately, we live in a town that has forgotten to evolve with the times in many regards and a large contingent of our citizens nearly had a stroke when the city finally gave the o.k. to serve alcohol on Sundays..... two years ago. Maybe that will give you some idea of the type of system Gordon is up against on this matter. Anything you can do to help him out is greatly appreciated, not just by him, but by his faithful patrons such as myself. Thanks again to all of you who contribute to the cause.

FREE GORDON LEE!

Thanks,

Chad Carver
 

I would like more information on his case.

I have Deathblows 1 & 2 which I can maybe bear to let go of, providing the right circumstances.
 

Im sure I have some collectibles I can donate. But it would be nice to know what Gordon Lee actually did. I know the letter said what he was charged for but it never says what he actually did. Im sure he just sold some comics. And I know I had to do a double take and make sure we were talking about America. But anyway, someone fill me in.

John
 

I want to help too. I will think of what to do to help out. Maybe draw something for Gordon. :) He need help very badly..
 

Uh, wasn't he charged before on simliar case in 1991?

http://www.barbelith.com/topic/23179

http://web.lexis-nexis.com.library3.webster.edu/universe/document?_m=249998945f1400d4e20524808e424f65&_docnum=1&wchp=dGLbVtz-zSkVb&_md5=b7675a96f9e0d5abdb7163555488d8db
 

He was charged with selling a mature comic to an adult. He won, and sued, and won that as well. As a result, some have questioned whether this was retaliation. Prosecutor Leigh Patterson denies this.
Ya, whatever.
Is this why she is targetting him, and not museums that display nude statues and art? Or why she wouldn't prosecute a vendor for selling a New Yorker with images of nude art, to a minor? (NOT that a minor would purchase that); but, minors have been known to look at National Geographic, because of their pictures of nude people.
 

I will certainly see what I am able to do, perhaps by 'Con!!
 

' Georgia, faces multiple charges stemming from an incident whereby a minor participating in a community Halloween celebration inadvertently received as a trick or treat gift the 2004 Free Comic Book Day offering by Alternative Comics (cover pictured below). That comic book featured a selection from the historical drama "The Salon," by Nick Bertozzi. The scene in question showed the first meeting between Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque. Picasso is depicted in the nude on three pages in reflection of historical fact. '

Damn, just read up on the incident. I hope this blatant idiocy gets sorted out soon.
 

Count my support!@
 

This is complete bull shit, and I'll try to help as much as I can.
=]
 

nice
 

Adventures In Legal Land

We Don't Need No Stinkin' Evidence
 

In fact Jim, how does this sound.....
When I am in San Diego we do a feature piece for www.fractalmatter.com on Wildstorm and a focus piece on CBLDF and this case and your involvement.

I am a volunteer for the magazine and a teacher so am not rolling in cash by any means but I would happily personally donate cash if i could afford it, but if you would like to do a feature for us I will donate to the fund a J. Scott Campbell buffy and Xander sketch that I own. That all I have that I think will be of value to comic fans?

Sound good?
 

Jim, I would like to support you in this over here in the UK, will be in SD for con and magazine stuff until Aug 2nd. Please drop me a line as I have a few ideas.


all the best
Russ Sheath

russellsheath@yahoo.co.uk
 

Don't get me wrong, I am sure it is a well intentioned post but people need to know more about the case before they get involved
 

Sorry

I will not make any opinion on this case before I have more specific details about the case to make an informed position on the subject.

" trial against two counts of distributing harmful to minors materials."

I don't know what are the specific 'harmful materials' mentioned in the case. Could be from Batman comic books to whatever kind of porn.
If you want to get help you should be more clear about the case, on the few info I got I wouldn't fell confortable on getting involved and I am sure others will fell likewise.
 

i donated 20,00 doallers
 

I'll see what I can do,..Gotta make a few calls..Me & minez got your back.
 

thank you, Jim.

A link for others to read: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/07/13/AR2006071301108.html
 

After reading up on this, I am sorry but I do not feel like I should help defend this guy. As he is a store owner it is his job to ensure that materials of a questionable nature do not find their way into hands of children. Yes it was historicly accurate, but would you want a 6 year old seeing depeictions of the holocaust? As well he has been brought up on charges similar in the past. I think he has been lax and is now paying the price for this. I do not see this as a civil rights case or one that the Comic book community need be invovled in.
 

The question though is should someone be ARRESTED for inadvertently showing something that could be deemed offensive to my kids. I don't think so.
 

I lived in Rome, GA for a little over a year. I visited this shop some while there. It's a pretty backward place, but I'm not sure that I would want my five year old son thumbing through much outside of Johnny DC. I have sympathy for this case though, because nudity doesn't bother me as much as violence. If it were me, I would have approached the guy about the mistake. If he was sincerely apologetic about it, no big deal.

It's not always true, but usually people are pretty forgiving. So the decision to take him to court over it probably means they could peacefully settle it with the shop owner on their own. Maybe he didn't apologize at all and just old the parents to grow up...

I don't know. I have resources that I'd be willing part with, but like some others around here, I'm not sure I can do it without getting both sides of the story.
 

Yeah...count me in! I got some art ot send. Just starting in the biz..I wanna help all I can." Distributing Harmful Materials to Minors,"...come on! Thanks for bringing this to our attention Jim!
 

I'm broke as a joke because I am drawing my ass of and working a shit job to become as cool as you. When I get a job that doesnt suck or get a gig doing comics I'll throw my cards in. Till then all I can do is wish the dude luck.

I hope things go well.
 

Thanks, Jim.

I agree, the precedent that this case could set is dangerous. I'm in to help.
 

I'm simply pleased that the CBLDF is getting talked about! They have helped many other comic shop owners and creators in the past, and will continue to do so. First Amendment rights are not something to be taken lightly - ever. The CBLDF help those without the funding and/or proper legal counsel to defend themselves against an often rear-sighted court system. That is an amazingly worthy cause, and one well worth participating in.

I don't know any details of this particular case, but CBLDF have my support just the same. Thanks Jim, for lending yours.
 

Here is alinkwith more details about the case.


For an overview of the Fund in general, and an interview with the executive director of the non-profit organization, clickie here.