NationStates Jolt Archive

Breaking news from PNN.pc

http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d197/Pacitalia/Constantino_Sorantanali_20.jpg
Gaunt-faced, pale, balding and overweight from his 279 days in a
maximum-security prison cell awaiting trial, deposed former prime
minister Constantino Sorantanali talks to reporters in this file photo
from the trial proceedings, which began on 19th June. Today, the
six-man, six-woman jury returned from sequestered deliberations
to hand out a guilty verdict. Sentencing is to take place Friday.

Soran guilty, jury unanimously decides
Despite former PM's not-guilty plea on treason and murder charges, even-gendered counsel decides to convict


Marco Bantafugra, in Ferimazzo d'Arra, Ciocanto, Pacitalia

Stricken with disbelief and watching in horror, deposed former prime minister Constantino Sorantanali saw his not-guilty plea tossed out the window as a twelve-person jury unanimously found him guilty on two counts of proliferating or advancing treason against the Republic (C.RP: II, iii, 4), and on one count of first-degree murder, for ordering the death of former Agustinate of International Relations Dr Rabastano Sancatto Serra in June, 2006.

The jury sequestered for only four hours to engineer the verdict, after a rapid-fire trial which saw the presentation of nearly 80 witnesses and just short of 18,000 documents delivered as evidence.

Sorantanali's Đ 3,3 mln team of lawyers were unable to persuade neither the six-man, six-woman jury, nor the judge presiding over the case, with a backdoor, last-minute insanity plea. Sorantanali's plea of mental incapacity was meant to appeal the jury that he was not fully aware of his actions when ordering the death of Sancatto Serra, but the judge struck the plea down calling it "ridiculous". Left with only an attempt of sanity innocence, Sorantanali watched the last day of proceedings calmly, seemingly knowing his time had come. However, he still showed an expression of complete shock and grief upon hearing the guilty verdict.

Republican prosecutors had brought two separate counts of treason against Sorantanali; one for his general actions as prime minister in using state resources or public funds to further personal means against the state itself, the second for his so-called Operation: Falling Star, which almost irreversibly sabotaged Sarzonian-Pacitalian relations. The clandestine operation involved, to name just two schemes, direct interference in economic activity in Sarzonia (including forcing Pacitalian shipbuilder Marinoceta SpA to counterbid Sarzonia's Portland Iron Works up to NSD 1,0 tn on Space Unionist shipbuilder Manston Naval Works in a near-successful attempt to bankrupt the Sarzonian giant), and the elimination of agents that would have alerted either side to the illegal plot.

A single conviction of treason or of first-degree murder entitles the judge presiding to sentence death on the perpetrator, via potassium chloride injection. But now that Sorantanali has been convicted of three death-eligible crimes, that sentence is surely likely come Friday.

Sorantanali was hounded by the press as he emerged from the courthouse in Ferimazzo d'Arra, a city of 56,000 in Ciocanto province. The shamed 49-year-old was whisked away by his defence team, refusing to answer any questions. The neutral venue was chosen after defence lawyers successfully argued that a trial anywhere in Sambuca, Liguria or Capitale would not guarantee a fair trial to the defendant. (Sorantanali was born in a rural Ligurian canton, was premerato of the province of Sambuca from 1995 to 2005, and, of course, called Timiocato home during his clipped tenure as prime minister).

Mr Sorantanali has become markedly aged-looking in the time since his arrest and internment at a prison in Ginarco degli Marchi, Sephalusia. He was booked into the prison on 14th September, last year, and was released on the 19th June for the trial. During those 279 days, Sorantanali has gained substantial weight and lost much of his defining salt-and-pepper mane. His face has become gaunt and paler, and sources say he needs large amounts of foundation to hide much of the wrinkles and blotchiness on his face. Supporters of Sorantanali believe he has been the subject of mistreatment during his prison time, though Corrections Pacitalia fervently denies those claims and independent inspectors say there is no evidence he has been either denied food, water, or medical or psychological attention, or that he has been physically or chemically abused. Most are putting the physical changes to aging and stress from the impending trial and the murder of his family by anti-Sorantanali extremists in late July last year.

The prime minister said, in a release, that he was "not surprised" by the verdict, but "had thought of Mr Sorantanali much over the last year" and "like most of Pacitalia and the world, have taken pity on him for the strains he placed on himself, and the nasty deeds to which he himself willfully subjected."

"However, he has been held accountable, justice has run its course and we must now wait and see what the sentence is," Fernando Chiovitti said. "I am prepared to see the worst on Friday, but I again do not expect to be surprised by the judge's decision except to hope that said decision is fair for all involved."

Update (6th July, 2007)

The judge presiding has announced a delay in the sentencing of convicted former prime minister Constantino Sorantanali. The sentencing hearing, which was supposed to be today at 1000, will now take place Monday at 1000 AOTC+3.

Sorantanali notified authorities, through his counsel, that he was suffering from the tail-end of a minor flu and was unable to attend today's hearing. The judge also says he needs the weekend to determine whether the sentence he has come up with is fair and accurate to the case.

Update (9th July, 2007)

Expressing his wish for a cooldown before the sentence is read in court, the judge presiding over the treason/murder trial of shamed former prime minister Constantino Sorantanali has once again delayed that sentencing hearing, this time for one full week, until next Monday, the 16th of July. No other reason was given for the delay.

It was decided by the men sitting at a conference table in a secure facility located in the picturesque mountains of West Farland that something had to be done to save the man soon potentially facing DEATH.

'We'll it is quite clear we will have to fabricate evidence of some other crime in order to attempt to extradite the man."

Still only seeing the back of the heads of the men sitting at the table, their faces unseen from the rear view.

This voice deeper. "It has to be very serious such as evidence of a an atrocity or assasination or something of the sort"

--------------------

Later that Day a message was delivered to foregin affairs of Pacitalia.

The Judicature of ICCD formally requests the extradition for allegations of Pacitalian backed assasination of Mariana Bisent, a bishop of ICCD. Evidence has linked Mr. Sorantanali to ordering it. Evidence and the submission by the survivors of the gang that attacked and killed Mrs. Bisent state that they were bankrolled. We have also have evidence of a bank account established in ICCD which is registered under an assumed name that links to Mr. Sorantanali.

We request that Mr. Sorantanali be extradited to ICCD for trial.

Imperial Judicature Division Dispatch via the Logothe's Office, ICCD.

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Official Statement, Directorate of Foreign Affairs
Second Pacitalian Republic



ATTN Logothe's Office, Imperial Judicature Division, Intracircumcordei
To whom it may concern:

While we respect the authority and integrity of the justice system of Intracircumcordei in a domestic sense, we must inform you that the Pacitalian government only has four existing extradition agreements with other states: with the Grand Archduchy of Hamptonshire, with the United Kingdom of Oceania, with the Incorporated States of Sarzonia, and with the Democratic Republic of Amarenthe.

Therefore, we serve notice to you that your request for the extradition of Mr Constantino Sorantanali on the grounds that he is a financial or physical accomplice to, or the direct perpetrator of, the crime of murder in the first degree, is denied.

We have, on the contrary, received potentially credible evidence suggesting that elements within the Intracircumcordei government attempted unsuccessfully to manipulate the trial proceedings in order to produce a more favourable result for Mr Sorantanali, a man you greatly admire. While we do not seek to accuse your government of any malfeasance outside your sovereign territories, we do in fact seek to remind you that, our counterclaim aside, the evidence you claim to have would first have to be examined by relevant republican authorities before any extradition would be considered. That policy applies to any country with which Pacitalia holds a bilateral extradition agreement, but the fact that no agreement pre-exists between our two states nullifies, or makes irrelevant, that information.

However, I once again must respectfully stress that his sentencing will be carried out as planned, he will serve out the sentence assigned to him, and he will not be extradited at any time, to any country, for any reason.


Sincera in domina bene,

Alessandra Capradoci
Agustinate of International Relations
Second Pacitalian Republic




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00 77128 3120 C4F4

MPNN Exclusive
10th July 2007

Pacitalia stands firm over Sorantanali sentencing

Pacitalia has tonight refused extradition requests for disgraced ex-Prime Minister Constantino Sorantanali, we can exclusively reveal, according to an anonymous source within the office of Alessandra Capradoci, the Pacitalian Agustinate of International Relations.

The request from the government of Intracircumcordei which linked 'The Big S' as he is lampooned in Manhattan Prime, to the assassination of a religious figure, was described by one member of the Pacitalian department as 'somewhat disputed', and was turned down earlier today on the grounds of Pacitalia lacking an extradition treaty with Intracircumcordei as well as the shaky nature of the request.

Sorantanali stands accused of treason against the Pacitalian Republic and first-degree murder, for ordering the death of Pacitalian Minister Dr Sancatto Serra in June 2006. His sentencing will be held on the 16th July, after numerous delays.

Logothe's Office Dispatch to Directorate of Foreign Affairs, Second Pacitalian Republic

This office only relayed a request from the Imperial Judicature, it is unfortunate that goodwill at default does not exist considering the gravity of the accusation. We will look into the accusations of manipulation by the Imperial Judicature. Any information you have in regard to corruption of Justice in the Divinus Imperium is very much welcome.

It will not reflect well on your government to refuse the request for trial. We would even be willing to hold trial in your jurisdiction if required. Note that ICCD doesn't have prisons, only death exile and dismisals with plausable joint terms. In the instance of all verdicts they would match or return the Prime Minister to you, so saving him because Dians Admire him as you stated would not be logical unless there is some elements to the plots by the Judicature we are not aware of.



http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d197/Pacitalia/coatofarms_Pacitalia.jpg
Official Statement, Directorate of Foreign Affairs
Second Pacitalian Republic



ATTN Logothe's Office, Imperial Judicature Division, Intracircumcordei
To whom it may concern:

While we respect the authority and integrity of the justice system of Intracircumcordei in a domestic sense, we must inform you that the Pacitalian government only has four existing extradition agreements with other states: with the Grand Archduchy of Hamptonshire, with the United Kingdom of Oceania, with the Incorporated States of Sarzonia, and with the Democratic Republic of Amarenthe.

Therefore, we serve notice to you that your request for the extradition of Mr Constantino Sorantanali on the grounds that he is a financial or physical accomplice to, or the direct perpetrator of, the crime of murder in the first degree, is denied.

We have, on the contrary, received potentially credible evidence suggesting that elements within the Intracircumcordei government attempted unsuccessfully to manipulate the trial proceedings in order to produce a more favourable result for Mr Sorantanali, a man you greatly admire. While we do not seek to accuse your government of any malfeasance outside your sovereign territories, we do in fact seek to remind you that, our counterclaim aside, the evidence you claim to have would first have to be examined by relevant republican authorities before any extradition would be considered. That policy applies to any country with which Pacitalia holds a bilateral extradition agreement, but the fact that no agreement pre-exists between our two states nullifies, or makes irrelevant, that information.

However, I once again must respectfully stress that his sentencing will be carried out as planned, he will serve out the sentence assigned to him, and he will not be extradited at any time, to any country, for any reason.


Sincera in domina bene,

Alessandra Capradoci
Agustinate of International Relations
Second Pacitalian Republic




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00 77128 3120 C4F4

Protests held in ICCD over refusal of extradition -
INTERNATIONAL POST FROM DIAN SECRETARIAT- 7 Million people gather in Lacus Prae to protest the refusal of extradition. While protest remained relatively calm close to 4000 people were transported to medical facilities and emergency shelters due to heat exhaustion and minor injuries cause by street fighting.

The causes of the street fighting do not seem linked directly with the protest. No reported deaths were recorded but 8 people said to be participating in the protests have said to gone missing. 90 international participants in the protest were included in those who were taken to emergency shelter.

Event planners say that next week they would plan water events.

Protests largely took place underground and areas of Lacus Prae were locked down due to the volume of use and need to redistribute oxygen systems and air purifiers.

Footage shown:

We Demand Justice We Demand Truth.

Say NO to absence of words where honour should be!!!

Only four pactalian flags were spotted being burned outdoors. One clip shown on footage

Down With the Unjust Pactalia - We deserve BLOOD!!!!

REMEMBER OUR CLERIC DON'T LET HER WOUNDS GO UNTRANSFERED!!!

--- flags then were burned a long with mansized puppets of several pactalian government officials, which showed remarkable artistic comment.

-------
In other news Pactalian toursists where they exists are advised not to reveal their nationality to anyone other than ESSI officials or other government officials in secure environments during emergency situations or at ports of entry.

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Travel Advisory and Statement, Foreign Affairs Directorate
Second Pacitalian Republic



ATTN the general public

All natives, naturalised citizens, permanent residents and those living in the Pacitalian Republic on valid visa are hereby advised to avoid travel to the Divinus Imperium of Intracircumcordei due to recent political upheaval and civil unrest there.

An increasingly unstable civil-political relationship, coupled with rampant political instability, has commenced in the region, fomented by rogue elements within the country who seek to defame the Pacitalian Republic's reputation both within Intracircumcordei and abroad.

We urge Pacitalians, as defined above, as well as recommend to other foreign nationals with ties to Pacitalia, or whose country has strong relations with the Pacitalian Republic, to leave the Divinus Imperium's sovereign territory within the next 72 hours as the likelihood that their safety is at risk is very high.

We, too, mourn the tragedy and loss of such an influential bishop, and an innocent human being, and while we strongly disapprove of the burning of our flag as a symbol of our refusal and of subsequent disagreement with that decision, we respect people's right to protest. However, the evidence and claims presented to republican authorities, regardless of no pre-existent extradition treaty, are currently being treated as suspect, and as flimsy.

We will not extradite anyone on shaky grounds, be they a criminal or not, and we cannot extradite anyone to a country that does not have an agreement with us. Furthermore, said extradition agreements are never retroactive, so the assent and ratification of a new agreement between our two states would not apply to the crimes of Mr Sorantanali.

This man will face justice for what he has done here, regardless of whether or not he is a criminal in Intracircumcordei.

The law is the law, and we ask that both the authorities and people in the Divinus Imperium respect that. Until that happens, we must strongly advise against travel there, and ask or advise all Pacitalians and allied foreign nationals there now to exit the country as soon as possible. Should anyone require assistance leaving the Divinus Imperium, they should contact the Foreign Affairs Directorate emergency hotline, a free-to-talk service, on (+2) 010 0860 70 60 or use the online interactive messaging service at http://www.mirfa.gov.pc/im.


Sincera in domina bene,

Alessandra Capradoci
Agustinate of International Relations
Second Pacitalian Republic




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00 60754 3806 D1S8

DNB-
Protests Continued in Lacus Prae and other major cities within ICCD. As a number of Pactalian Nationals cut their trips short in ICCD. One such Pactalian who spoke anonymously at the time can be stated as " I don't know what these nutters are on about, just because the guy killed one of his own officials doesn't mean he'd kill one of yours!"
A Protest orginazation one of a number such orgaizations that has sprang up in only a few days, S is for Snake, stated that they would continue to hold a vigil for justice to be done. Meanwhile those captured in relation with the plot who place the Former PM as the person behind the bank rolling, and even name the person so killed as being implicated with the plot as well, and potentially one of the reasons for Mr Sorantanali's comitted murder. While the Pactalian Government claims that evidence is non sufficient. Bank records and even recorded phone discussions have been presented in a trial in Lieu of Habeas Corpus. Financial Records show a number of accounts set up under fictitious names wiring vast sums of money that was traced to originating from Pactalia from government accounts. These funds later ended up with a local fence in ICCD who then as ordered established and bankrolled the gang that was instramental with the kidnapping and eventual murder of the Bishop who is on record as actively stating that Mr Sorantanali was a corrupt person who wouldn't even respond to her private letters critical of the man, sent under a penname. Oddly these letters have not been found and no record in the Dian Postal System shows them as ever existing, but her diary makes repeated references to those letters.

The trial is still awaiting new evidence. So far though, although the evidence and recorded phone calls voice matched with Mr Sorantanali and his former assosiates seems to be valid, they could have been doctored, stated experts, "not because they are flawed but because they are perfect matches and that is highly unlikely unless it was him or someone was trying to frame him. " The people accusing Mr Sorantanali of being the mastermind behind the killing, although said to be 'flimsy' by the Government of Pactalia has the Judge hearing the initial stage of the case questionable. Because Mr Sorantanali is not in the court process no one currently may appeal the decision as would normally exist if the trial were done with equal participation. Due to the deceased bishop being a state employee normal civil conventions do not apply in this instance.

In a statement by the Logothes office to Dian News Broadcasting the Logothe Stated concern of vigilante attacks in Pactalia - and only travel resitrictions on Dian Residents and all international residents for anyone that might try to illegally gain entry using a false passport or any Dian who might hold another passport even incognito would pose an ongoing risk for the relations between Pactalia and ICCD, even if ICCD really didn't have anything to do with it. Quote 'It wouldn't be the first time a Dian had killed someone they didn't like, and with all this uproar over the incident and unwillingness of their government to atleast show token support for the justice system here is very unfortunate, but technically they can do what they like, it's not like we are going to send soilders over there or try to nuke them, that would be ludicrist. We really would like the fundamentalists to just calm down and let the information come forward.



--------------
Logothe's Office Dispatch to Pactalia
We are wondering if via video or telephone communication Mr Sorantanali can be heard, in absenceof personage, as the court would like to summons him on request of the presenters of the case. His assistance in providing a statement or information even in lieu of bieng heard as a defendant would be very useful to the court process.

L.O. ICCD

President Mike Sarzo was accustomed to putting out brush fires that involved his own country. It seemed a long time since he or his government had taken anything other than an isolationist stance on world affairs. It had been even longer since Sarzonia and Pacitalia officially stood on the same side on a particular issue politically.

Well aware of the roller coaster that marked Paci-Sarzonian relations, Sarzo was also well aware that his inserting Sarzonia into this potential quagmire could bring about consequences that could have long-reaching effects.

He walked up to the podium for his weekly address to the Sarzonian people aware of an impulse to conserve energy, but also feeling a touch of an internal fire that once burned as brightly as any that Freekish foes slept in.

"The Incorporated Sarzonian Government does not recognise the jurisdiction that the Divinus Imperium of Intracircumcordei claims in its efforts to request an extradition of former Pacitalian Prime Minister Constantino Sorantanali.

"While we respect the judgment of our Pacitalian friends in most cases, I can not say that I have even a shred of confidence in the criminal justice system of a nation I have not even heard from until this particular matter has come to our attention. The Divinus Imperium may very well have a top-notch court system, but it is not their prerogative to bring to trial a man who has committed no offence against them.

"Thus, I would hereby request that the Second Republic of Pacitalia formally extradite Signore Sorantanali to the custody of the Incorporated Sarzonian Government prior to sentencing so that Signore Sorantanali may stand trial for crimes against the Incorporated States of Sarzonia and the Sarzonian people. While Sorantanali has committed no crimes against the people of the Divinus Imperium, he is under suspicion of approving a plot that would have crippled the Incorporated States of Sarzonia and impovrished her people. For that, he must stand trial in a Sarzonian court of law.

"In addition, I am signing an executive order placing the government of the Divinus Imperium on diplomatic probation. Any citizens of their government are to be formally discouraged from travel to Sarzonia or to her territories; in addition, Sarzonians are expressly prohibited from travel to Intracircumcordei or her territories. Finally, I am directing the Office of External Affairs to table any effort toward initiating diplomatic relations with Intracircumcordei."

Sarzo then continued with his normal weekly address dealing with matters internal and external that directly affected Sarzonia. He did not take questions from anyone in the press corps.

ICCD issues a travel advisory in regards to Sarzonia to clog the list of the 8 or 9 other countries the Logothe's Office recently advised against travel to, for various reasons.

This one read as

"Due to confusion with the reasoning of the Sarzonia and seeming fragile state in it's ability to provide for it's own citizens, travel to Sarzonia may have unknown conseqeuneces and the ability to provide for travellers due to their unstable government may be a risk. The Logothe's Office while not banning travel, is not in favour of having any state employees on long term placements and advises the general public to avoid travel and especially long term stays. The Logothe's Office and emergency services cannot insure justice or rescue as possible under normal means. As such travel at your own risk."

---------------
Meanwhile upon news of Sarzonia's desired claim for extradition of PM S.
The ongoing protests took a new light.


ICCD JUSTICE FIRST MURDER OVER CORRUPTION!!!
------------


Meanwhile a much more sinister plot was attempting to be hatched.

Elements which beleived Sarzonia would have a much better chance of aquiring the former Prime Minister decided that there would be no better time for Justice then at the delivery points or court that he was at.

In advance under alternate nationality cells aimed at being short term sleepers of the Dian Patriotic Front or D.P.F. started to send inconspicuous tools and raw materials for construction of weapons and ammunition to several locals. That which wasn't on the local buy lists. These goods bought in different locations to limit the ability to trace the purchases to a common threat.

Traquilizer guns, non prescription drugs and commonly available chemicals. Not to mention duct tape.

-------

It would be nearly impossible.




Meanwhile the same rouge group that engineered the appeared murder of the Bishop was up to a new game. A plan for a mid air heist of the former Prime Minister. This would involve 5 VTOL aircraft and retired dian frigates. The group was formermembers of the Dian Lictor Service inlcuding a former Imperial Commander, now in his late 70's. Why were they doing this, why were they causing such a ruckus over this man who probably never even looked at a map of ICCD. The reason was vieled. They supposed that any intermingling of ICCD with Pactalia would end up resulting in a benifit for ICCD or the Dian Security Forces. While the government in no way knew of their activities the risk of discovery was likely to result in outright death. Still for the old commander and his former eager pupils this was for the glory of the Empire, in their own twisted and utterly dangerous way. Odd that they had no clue the waves created could cause the deaths of many on all sides of the borders.

http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d197/Pacitalia/coatofarms_Pacitalia.jpg
Official Statement, Directorate of Foreign Affairs
Second Pacitalian Republic



For public release

After careful consideration of the consequences from every angle, and with consultations between senior officials in the Justice and Foreign Affairs Directorates with the prime minister and with the judge presiding, we have chosen to approve the Imperial Judicature Division's request for videoconferencing in order to examine Mr Sorantanali in relation to the crime of murder in the first degree. We do, however, reserve the right to set up, quantify and verify any equipment or technology ourselves, and insist that the data connection between Mr Sorantanali's cell, and the courtroom in Intracircumcordei, remain completely wireless. We also reserve the right to cease transmission at any point during the examination and cross-examination process, if we feel that the prisoner's rights under Pacitalian law are, at any time, being infringed upon. We remind Intracircumcordei's authorities that such rights apply because Mr Sorantanali remains on Pacitalian soil despite the court "appearance".

We are approving such a videoconferencing to take place at any time, up until the 27th July at 2359 EPDT (AOTC+3).

That very same consideration and consultation has also led us to recommend to Corrections Pacitalia that they sign a releasor notice, which will, in effect, transfer PR Sgr Constantino Sorantanali into the custody of Sarzonian officials, effective 30th July at 0001 SST (AOTC+1), in order to stand trial for crimes committed against the Sarzonian people and state, crimes for which evidence is presentable, verifiable and constitutes a prosecutable act. The releasor notice will be in effect for a maximum of 120 calendar days, at which point the prisoner must be returned to Pacitalian custody.

I must stress the difference we continue to make between the quantifiable and unquantifiable evidence the Pacitalian government is being presented by its two counterparts. The decisions reached today attempt to solve the issues raised as best as possible, offending or inconveniencing authorities in the countries in question as little as possible.

We most definitely intend to respect the extradition agreement signed between the Incorporated States and the First Republic on the 25th April, 2004. Signing and ratifying such an agreement was a sign of our carefully nurtured, steadily maturing and fruitfully budding relationship at that time. Approving this extradition is a sign of the resurgence of that relationship and of our rediscovered trust in each other.

However, we must stress that Mr Sorantanali's sentencing must go ahead as scheduled. But we wish to remind Sarzonian authorities that his sentence will likely carry an effective date of 90 days from the date of sentencing, allowing the courts of the Incorporated States to try PR Sgr Sorantanali in a comfortable time frame. Any sentences handed to him by a Sarzonian court will be transferred onto the official consequences database for that prisoner and carried out as such by Pacitalian authorities, except in cases of redundancy (for example, multiple death sentences).

Sincera in domina bene,

Alessandra Capradoci
Agustinate of International Relations
Second Pacitalian Republic




$//<a.capradoci@sec.mirfa.gov.pc:0834>>>>///
00 91752 6661 N9G2

Secret IC



! TO: # O SRZ PRESIDENT, # O SRZ EXT AFFAIRS, # O SFBI
CC: MBR, DFA, OPM
STOR/ORIGIN: PCIC
6K 2B78 016 A302 5G18510,-02

<<< We have received intelligence that elements within the Divinus Imperium intend to manipulate the prisoner-custody transfer process of Prisoner of the Republic Signore Constantino G Sorantanali, [prisoner identification number 86324YN, releasor notice number KJ942/C], anticipated to take place on the thirtieth of July at one minute past midnight local Sarzonian time.

This intelligence has been repeatedly analysed and is deemed credible.

The expected offensive from said elements appears to be a soft launch, including ultra-light armaments, ammunition and/or weaponry; high-dosage prescription medication; and the likelihood of a physical attack against our handling authorities and law enforcement officials.

As a result, we will be provisionally increasing our allocated security task force for the prisoner transfer event, at least until such time that we may confirm the evidence is certifiable and that an interception attempt is likely.

We also have reason to believe, based on additional, but as of yet not totally confirmed, material, that these elements, if unsuccessful in their attempt to acquire PR Sgr Sorantanali at, or unable to appear at, the designated handoff zone, will try, at some or any point during the trial proceedings in Sarzonia, to acquire him forcibly. We advise caution if this rumour can indeed be confirmed and will be continually analysing the evidence we have received.

Some of the evidence may be declassified and forthcoming in order to share it with you and give Sarzonian authorities a greater idea of this possible threat.

END DATA/MESSAGE>>>

>>>>>

>3%$##@)%@U$

85011010

07 CLASSIFY OR DESTROY AS SOON AS POSSIBLE

[OOC: There's no Sarzonian Daylight Time. We don't use daylight-saving time in Sarzonia. :p]

SECRET IC


Encrypted Data Transfer Message

TO: MBR, DFA, OPM, PCIC
CC: SFBI, SSS, OOP, OOLP, DoD
FROM: SVP, External Affairs
RE: Credible Threat

We are in receipt of your posting of the credible threat posed by the Divinus
Imperium against the would-be transfer of Signore Sorantanali. We intend to throw
the full weight of the Incorporated Sarzonian Defence Network to prevent the
forcible removal of Signore Sorantanali from Sarzonian custody, and later,
Pacitalian custody once he has stood trial.

We will cooperate fully with Corrections Pacitalia and any agency responsible
for the transfer of Signore Sorantanali to Sarzonian custody.

From PNN.pc

http://www.sptimes.com/2005/11/18/images/xlarge/A_1_1Amother_519174_1118.jpg
Supporters of deposed former prime minister Constantino
Sorantanali huddle for support, broken down into tears of pure
anguish, after the judge hands down a sentence of death for the
convicted murderer and conspirator. Sorantanali now faces a
second trial by videoconference, appearing on camera in front
of an Intracircumcordei courtroom, before he is extradited to
Sarzonia to stand trial for crimes committed against the state.

DEATH
No surprises as judge lays out sentence of execution via potassium chloride injection


Marco Bantafugra, Ferimazzo d'Arra, Ciocanto, Pacitalia

Constantino Sorantanali will serve 50 days of a life sentence for treason against the Pacitalian republic before he is executed for the death of former International Relations head Dr Rabastano Sancatto Serra in June of last year.

The courtroom gasped as the judge read out the 50-day jail term, thinking that Sorantanali was about to get off extremely leniently, despite a guilty verdict in the final proceeding day back in the first week of this month. But they cheered the end result, while a small group of ardent Soran supporters clutched each other in anguish, huddled in a back corner.

With Sorantanali set to be executed within the next year, his calendar has suddenly become a lot busier. The Foreign Affairs Directorate has approved the Imperial Judicature Division of Intracircumcordei's request for a witness-stand appearance via videoconferencing link, with prosecutors and defence lawyers there having the opportunity to question him at any time during business hours up until the 27th of July. Following that, on the immediate Monday, he will be transferred into Sarzonian custody under a pre-existing extradition agreement, validated by a temporary releasor notice, to stand trial for the same crimes he was convicted, in the Pacitalian courts, of committing.

Pacitalian authorities have promised to append any sentences delivered by the Sarzonian courts onto Mr Sorantanali's Official Consequences Database (OCD). Therefore, even though he's only likely to serve 50 days of a life sentence for treason from Pacitalian courts, he might end up serving more jail time if the Sarzonians give him a life-term sentence rather than condemning him to death. However, any death sentences will be, of course, redundant, except to be interpreted as supporting the Pacitalian sentence.

"Most Pacitalians are happy to give the Sarzonians a chance at cracking this nut and getting some justice of their own," a law professor at Cardinal University (who wishes to remain anonymous) said via phone Monday afternoon, following the sentencing. "But they would hope that [the Sarzonians] respect the Pacitalian people's wish to have this man punished... executed... as soon as possible. They don't want him rotting away in a jail cell. Pacitalians want him wiped away."

The average Pacitalian does believe that the Sarzonians will respect that, the professor said.

The judge presiding also revoked Sorantanali's Ð 10-mln bail, meaning he has been placed into protective custody until his designated sentence begins. Sorantanali was required to return into the custody of Corrections Pacitalia regardless of the result, in order to attend the video-link court appearance broadcasting to the Divinus Imperium's courts.

Sorantanali, who had originally promised to appeal the verdict, strangely backtracked, and said he would not appeal the sentence.

"I believe the sentence was fair," his lawyers said, on his behalf, in a carefully crafted statement following the hearing. "I sincerely apologise for my misdeeds."

Official Statement from the Executive Cabinet of the Federal-Parliamentarian Government of the United Sovereign Nations of Southeast Asia
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a338/Singaporean_Liberal/NationStates%20Pictures/SoutheastAsianCoatofArms.gif

To: All Parties Concerned
From: Henley Leong, Senior Deputy Prime Minister, United Sovereign Nations of Southeast Asia
Subject: Trial of ex-prime minister, extradition and all affiliated subjects

Dear Esteemed Delegations of all Parties Concerned,

The United Sovereign Nations of Southeast Asia has always advocated, the right to self-determination, and the issue of national sovereignty. It however, thanks to ration and reason, argues for one or the other in case by case process, depending on the situation where ration and reason would call for the better stance to have. While there have been vehement disagreements in from the general public, Southeast Asians have kept cool heads and sought to use common sense. With all due respect, what does the Divinus Imperium of Intracircumcordei hope to achieve by asserting, in both it's concerningly volatile general public's outcries, and in their government's official remarks against the Incorporated States of Sarzonia and the Second Pacitalian Republic?

Admittedly, the sentence is controversial and as I have stated earlier on, I can understand the plea for a less harsh sentence. However, the Divinus Imperium should realize from reactions of the President of the Incorporated States of Sarzonia and the Pacitalian Directorate of Foreign Affairs that asserting what they see as proper justice shall do nothing more than bring increased negative perception from sovereigntists in the Second Pacitalian Republic and elsewhere on the planet, and more unfriendly opinions across the international community by even those who disagree with the national sovereignty concept.

That stated, the Executive Cabinet of the Federal-Parliamentarian Government warns all Southeast Asian nationals touring in the Divinus Imperium to watch their comments in order not to incriminate themselves as targets, and if the situation calls for it, depart the Divinus Imperium altogether. Also, the United Sovereign Nations of Southeast Asia, despite recent matters of great concern, offers our intimate friends in the Incorporated States of Sarzonia and the Second Pacitalian Republic support in this dilemma. I wish for the best, and hope that we all can calm down and come to a warm compromise.

Yours Truly,
The Right Honorable
Henley Leong
Senior Deputy Prime Minister
United Sovereign Nations of Southeast Asia

Official Statement from the Free Havenic Republic of Kahanistan
Ministry of Justice

http://www.nationstates.net/images/flags/uploads/kahanistan.jpg

The Government of Kahanistan is opposed to the death penalty on principle, so take what we have to say with a grain of salt.

Our own constitution prohibits extradition to a nation that will execute or torture a prisoner under any circumstances (we are currently among the largest destinations for murderers, traitors, deserters, terrorists, etc. fleeing their nations' legal systems), so we can understand the Pacitalian government's resistance in certain circumstances to refuse to extradite in order to protect the human rights of the prisoner.

Sorantanali is no more popular in Kahanistan than he is in Pacitalia, and his case is not exactly a cause celebre for opponents of capital punishment. He may be more popular in the Divinus Imperium, for reasons we cannot fathom; the man is scum of the lowest order. We would never hand one of our prisoners to the Deians, but one sentenced to death has far fewer things to worry about, unless the Deian method of execution is far more torturous than injection of KCl.

Even if he were to be utterly exonerated by the Deians, as appears to be far more likely, it is highly unlikely he would dare to return to the country that sentenced him to death. Perpetual exile is such a severe punishment that the UN, we believe, has enacted legislation against it, which they have not done even for the death sentence. Of course, you and I both know that Pacitalia is not a UN member and not subject to such international restrictions. After all, what would the Pacitalians do in the less likely event that Mr. Sorantanali were to be exonerated by the Sarzonians? I doubt that he would return to Pacitalia in that event either.

Signed,
Marcus Octavius Cassius,
Minister of Justice

As prepared after Dian correspondents arranged the technology transfer information to make available the remote communication, through close circuit ISDN relay.

The court room was much like a conference room - the communication was being held in what looked like an office, a fireplace, some natural lighting and plants, not the typical up on the bench with two desks view with jury box prisoner box ect.. of other court systems.
omnino acceptus
nos nunc omnio

--------------
Welcome to these hearing all those there in Pactalia, we will keep this breif for the Former Prime Minister Sorantanali.

Since you are likely not familiar with the Dian court system, normally at a pre imperial justice level for any hearing lasting over a day you would be housed in the Manor Estate with the Lord Presiding and his staff as a guest. We do not have a single prosecution or defence in ICCD instead we have an open council that voices there cases, which is also open to the public, or anyone else that peitions the court. For every stage of appeals the former judicature official presiding also makes statements at the next level in person or if not summoned via writ. In this Instance after the situation concerning the Bishop, a state official of one of the estates of ICCD the provost office and ESSI filed reports to a local sherrif in the place of the assasination, as well as to other channels. The sherrif then petitioned the court and requested an arrest warrant be placed for the Honourable Sorantanali. Due to the nature of knowing his wearabout to be in an otherwise external area, the Logothe's Office was contacted through a series of communications. The Logothe's Office was denied interstate transfer for purposes of the trial, so the trial was commenced in absence of Habeus Corpus. Statements were made but due to the nature of the offence, an Imperial Justisar, myself was assigned to this case after all members of the Judicature from that Sherifs location, inlcuding members of the Provincial Parliament in the commons and lords gave statements, as well the secretariat gave statements.

Since our jusitice system is inquisitional and not adversarial normally we only hold individuals if someone speaks for safety concerns to the public and they are seen as reasonable. We would not place a court order for holdings of
the Honourable Sorantanali against his wishes but would extend the offer of residence while the trial was being held. For the Imperial Justisar though, since we operate on Imperial State Property and do not have traditional manors, but instead palases, often located in military zones, it would likely not be an ammenable local in the secure zones of my own private jurisdiction that being the South West Lakes Naval Zone, at Fort Carstied an old castle structure that was expanded as a naval fortification, eventually a port, with airport and Legionaire base. Although if the Honourable Sorantanali does wish to come to ICCD and is given that leave we will accomidate him, that is his business.

As for the actual meat of this teleconference. We would like to provide the Honourable Sorantanali the oppourtunity to make statements as well as answer the following questions. The questions will be transmitted, a translator will be provided, and any questions about the questions can be put. the Honourable Sorantanali is not obligated to say anything, but any purgry will usually carry a death sentance if it is able to be substantiated, for instance I myself know he is lying or someone above me knows he is lying, or he later admits to lying.

So we will transfer the questions. Give an oppourtunity to address each one and make a statement.

Upon the first round of questions, the council here ---- panoramic veiw showing about 12 people--- will have an oppourtunity to ask any remaining questions.

Finally the Honourable Sorantanali will be able to ask questions, and make statements, as well as make calls for warrants summons and other court orders as he feels is required to see justice done, with reason there to.

The questions read as:

Did you have bank accounts which transfered funds into ICCD under covert means.

Did you at any time set into motion activities in ICCD that were done covertly.

Did any of these activities actively seek to kill anyone in ICCD?

Did you intentionally coordinate or plan the murder of the Bishop?

Do you think it is possible that someone could have framed you?

If so, Who would that be?
Do you have any information regarding illegal activities that occured in ICCD under your watch?

--------------------------

Thank you, you may now respond.

Did you have bank accounts which transfered funds into ICCD under covert means?

"I have bank accounts but have not knowingly, covertly transferred any funds from any of my accounts into Intracircumcordei."

Did you at any time set into motion activities in ICCD that were done covertly?

"The only activity I have ever set into motion regarding the Divinus Imperium was analysing and studying classified data, which I ordered procured whilst in power, in order to see whether relations between our two countries was a feasible idea. I have not participated in, or started, any covert activities within your country."

Did any of these activities actively seek to kill anyone in ICCD?

"I have not participated in, or started, any covert activities within your country, therefore, it is not possible that any non-existent activities would actively seek to kill someone or anyone within your country. No."

Did you intentionally coordinate or plan the murder of the Bishop?

"No."

Do you think it is possible that someone could have framed you? If so, who would that be?

"Judging by the evidence you claim to have that says money was drawn from my bank accounts, though I assert that it happened without my knowledge or consent, I would say the possibility of a framing is high. Though I have checked my bank account balances and there is no evidence of any money being drawn out without my consent. The only payment I have made in the last three hundred days is to recompense my lawyers for their services."

Do you have any information regarding illegal activities that occured in ICCD under your watch?

"No."

---------------------------------------------------------

After the final question, the videoconference ended, and Sorantanali was escorted back to his cell to wait out the two weeks until his extradition to Sarzonia.

bump

[OOC: Since Sorantanali was found guilty a long time ago IRL and I left NS between then and now, I'm calling fluid time. Besides, it will allow me to RP Sarzo one last time. This will be the ONLY RP in which I revive Sarzo. Otherwise, that bridge has already been traveled.]

The ride over for Sorantanali was rough in more ways than one. Besides the emotional turmoil of dealing with the apparent deaths of his family, the loss of his political career and his impending death, the Sarzonian guards were anything but gentle.

"Sit the fuck down you asshole!"

The guard, 6-foot-5 inches and 240 pounds of muscle aggressively shoved Sorantanali into his seat and roughly shackled him.

"You'll have time to move around when you get to Hoover," he snapped, making his disdain for Sorantanali evident. All Sorantanali could do was nod weakly. This guard made it clear that any attempts to talk to him would be dealt with harshly. Even citing the Woodstock Convention would do no good. Pacitalia and Sarzonia were never at war, besides a verbal cold war, that is.

"Control tower, this is Bearcat. Request permission to land, over."

"Bearcat, this is control tower. Permission to land on Runway D granted, over."

The jet arced majestically above the Woodstock skyline as it made its final approach to the Jetport. Woodstock may not have been the pristine tourist attraction of Timiocato, but it had its own beauty. However, Sorantanali would not get an opportunity to enjoy it. He was pushed and dragged toward a waiting prison van and shoved inside where two more burly guards waited.

Fifteen minutes later, the van pulled into the J. Edgar Hoover Correctional Facility and Sorantanali was led inside to a prison cell. He was then shoved inside a cell. He noticed a bunk bed, a sink, a small table and a hard metal chair. That would be his home until he was re-extradited back to Pacitalia to serve his death sentence.

Meanwhile, a set of footprints clomped loudly on the floor while the din of several more sets of footprints more quietly sounded their approach to the barren cell. Another prisoner was led into the cell before the armed guards slammed the cell shut.

Sorantanali eyed the new prisoner. The man stood about 5-foot-11 and weighed 172 pounds. He was mostly thin except for a decided paunch in the middle, but the most noticeable thing to Sorantanali was a five-day old growth of facial hair. That and a left eye that was permanently squinting.

The prisoner waited until the guards physically left the tiny room before speaking.

"'Ey," he said. "Name's Billy Bob. What're you in for?"

"I'd rather not say," Sorantanali said. "You?"

"Shooting a man on Western Boulevard," the prisoner said. Sorantanali squirmed a bit when he saw a crazed look in the other prisoner's right eye.

"Say," the prisoner said. "You wanna know something?"

"Uh, what's that?"

"You look like yer a nice piece of ass."

Soon, the sound of muffled screams escaped from the cell, but the guards paid it little attention. When a prison official returned, he noticed a sighing smile on Billy Bob's face -- and a look of shame on Sorantanali's. He scanned the interior of the room for a moment before he left.

He knows, Sorantanali thought. Fuck.

Indeed.

Two hours later, a prison warden walked into the room and opened the cell, flanked by four burly guards. Two of the guards picked Billy Bob up and led him out of the cell, while the warden looked Sorantanali over with a piercing scowl.

"You'd better freshen up," he said. "You've got a rather important visitor coming." He then made sure the guards left before shutting the door.

Employees began walking briskly through the cell -- and Sorantanali was able to see it all. He could hear whispers about the identity of the visitor, about what a surprise it was that the visitor would make his first trip to the prison since the Second Civil War and speculation centered on what the visitor was there for.

Sorantanali slumped in his bunk bed. The events of the past few hours weighed rather heavily on him, from the rough extradition from his beloved Pacitalia to a country he tried so desperately to scorn to the aggressive treatment by Sarzonian authorities who were clearly bent on avenging themselves and their nation upon him to the actions of a fellow prisoner who took out months of sexual frustration on a deposed national leader.

But few physical or emotional blows would prepare him for the visit by a figure he tried to paint as a clueless rube who had no concept of running a country. Even though it soon became evident to the world that he was the pot trying to call the kettle black. He heard another loud clomping of dress shoes on the floor leading to his jail cell. He looked up at the clock and sighed.

One hour, he thought. One hour I've been here and I'm being humiliated again? Once was too much, but three times in one hour was enough to break a lesser man. But he would try to draw on his tenure as a provincial premier for what little pride he had left. His clipped tenure as prime minister would provide him with no comfort.

When the door opened and Sarzonian Secret Service agents began to walk in, their weapons drawn, Sorantanali knew it was what he'd feared. When the man walked in wearing a simple black suit with a white shirt and a navy blue tie, it was exactly whom he didn't want to see.

Mike Sarzo, the longtime president of the Incorporated States of Sarzonia, was now glowering at Sorantanali. It was a trademark scowl that many people the world over were familiar with.

Sarzo held what looked like sheets of paper in his right hand. He studied them for a second before returning that scowl back to Sorantanali.

"Well, Tino," Sarzo said theatrically. "So nice of you to pay us a visit." Not waiting for Sorantanali to respond, Sarzo resumed.

"I've decided to deliver a summons to appear in the Appellate Court* tomorrow morning at 10 a.m. personally. You will stand trial for crimes against Sarzonia," Sarzo said. "But before I serve you with the summons, I have a series of questions for you. The first one is the easiest -- or the hardest -- depending, of course, on your mindset.

"That question, Tino, is why. Why did you do it?

"I could arrange to have your life made even more of a living hell here than it already has been in the one hour five minutes you've been in this facility," Sarzo said. "So I strongly suggest you answer my questions honestly. Unless you'd like Billy Bob to return."

Sarzo folded his arms and fixed the scowl back onto Sorantanali, waiting for his answer.

*[OOC: The Appellate Court is the nation's second highest court behind the Supreme Judicial Court. The RL basis is Maryland's Court of Special Appeals, which is the state's second highest court behind the Court of Appeals.]

Sorantanali scowled right back at Sarzo. He did not hate the man, nor did he hate Sarzonia or Sarzonians, but he did not appreciate the disrespect and was upset by the fact that all Sarzonians' vitriol against the Pacitalians was being dumped squarely upon his shoulders. He could feel Sarzonians' open contempt for Pacitalia in every word Sarzo spoke.

He gruffly replied, a strong Pacitalian accent pervading the air. "Do not talk to me like I am stupid."

His words were softly spoken; they still echoed off the walls of the jail cell.

"I am not going to answer any of your questions and you know that. Not without a lawyer present, anyway. And I welcome another go-around with your Billy Bob. I'll be sure to bring the rape up in court tomorrow morning... and with the relevant authorities in Pacitalia upon my return so they choose their extradition agreements a little more carefully next time. Your threats mean nothing."

He stood up and walked to the far corner of the cell, leaning his shoulder against the wall and facing away from the bars, the scowl still present. What a joke, he thought to himself.

"And don't call me Tino."

Sarzo smirked at Sorantanali's reaction. He figured that's what he would get.

"Very well, then," Sarzo began. "Considering your threats are coming from a man who eventually will die anyway, they mean nothing to me.

"You will have to answer to the people of Sarzonia," Sarzo continued. "I don't care if you don't answer my questions. But you will have to face charges in court.

"As far as the rape is concerned, I will address that matter with the proper authorities. But having said that, I believe it was a physical manifestation of what you figuratively tried to do to our country.

"As for you, Tino, I'm showing you every ounce of respect and courtesy you showed me during your four month tenure as prime minister. And you certainly have tried to paint me as being stupid. I suppose you're too much of a sorce falso to see that? Hmm?

Sarzo turned around and walked toward the door. He turned back and fixed one more scowl at Sorantanali before turning away.

"Once again, Tino, it's not your country we hate. It's you. I suggest you rest and get freshened up. It will be a long day in court tomorrow." He then slammed the door before Sorantanali had the chance to respond.

As Sarzo was preparing to leave the building, he saw two guard leading an unkempt prisoner toward Sorantanali's cell.

"What are you doing, gentlemen?"

"We're bringing him back to the cell."

"Back? You mean he wasn't in another cell?"

"Yeah, this is the prisoner who ..."

"Who raped Sorantanali?" Sarzo asked with a quiet, but still forceful tone that caught both guards by surprise. The guard's face turned bright red before he stammered his response.

"Uh, yeah."

Sarzo raised an eyebrow.

"And did you do anything to stop it?"

"If we responded to every time we heard screaming from a cell, we'd..."

Sarzo cut him off.

"That's a violation of the Woodstock Convention," Sarzo said. "Pacitalia is not our enemy. Sorantanali is. But he still deserves better treatment than what he got.

"Sorantanali will spend tonight in his cell by himself. As for 'Billy Bob' here," Sarzo said. "Put him in solitary."

Sarzo walked back out of the prison. As for Sorantanali, he spent the night fuming.

*************************************************

Early the next morning, a different set of guards came and opened the cell, leading Sorantanali into a waiting van. This time, they didn't shove him inside, but they kept their service weapons trained on him to prevent escape.

Sorantanali sat next to a graying gentleman who pored over some sheets of paper in a binder he balanced on his right leg with the ankle of his foot resting on his left leg.

"You must be Constantino Sorantanali," the man said without looking up from his notes.

"Yes," Sorantanali said.

"I'm Giovanni Brezeanu," the man said with an even expression. "I have been assigned to be your attorney."

Sorantanali nodded, then stared straight ahead.

"I've been reviewing the evidence," Brezeanu said. "You are formally being charged with three counts: Crimes against Sarzonia, conspiracy to commit economic terrorism and slander. Conspiracy to commit economic terrorism and slander together carry a 50-year sentence, but in accordance with Sarzonian law, they would have to be served in Sarzonia proper. Crimes against Sarzonia carry a 40-year sentence, but would allow you to leave this place and return to Pacitalia.

"Based on what I've heard about your extradition experience, I'm afraid the Sarzonian correctional system would be unable to prevent you from receiving abuse. Frankly, if you want to maintain even a shred of your dignity, you may be best served agreeing to a plea bargain deal that prosecutors have proposed.

"What is it," Sorantanali asked after sighing.

"If you plead guilty to the count of crimes against Sarzonia, you would have the other two counts dropped and you would receive a 25-year sentence which would only be in force if you ever returned to Sarzonia. If you never set foot in Sarzonia again, you would not have to serve a day of it. But if you agree to the plea bargain deal, you would immediately be turned over to Corrections Pacitalia and would be on the next flight to Timiocato.

"This judge, Joe Whalen, he's a hanging judge. But under this circumstance, I believe he would agree to this deal. If this case goes to trial, you'd find that prosecutors have evidence that most juries would consider beyond a reasonable doubt. You might get a not guilty on the slander charge and that's it.

"I think if you don't want to drag Pacitalia any further into the morass, you would be best suited to accept the plea deal. Then you would be able to leave Sarzonia and never set foot on her soil again.

"Oh, one other thing," Brezeanu said. "You may have noticed from my name and my accent, but I'm a native of Sambuca. I moved here in early 2005, but I still love my home province."

Brezeanu finally looked up at Sorantanali and waited for his response.

Sorantanali sighed heavily, rubbing his weary eyes. He did not understand why anyone would want to leave Pacitalia for a place like this but he chalked that up to his own nationalist principles. He chose instead to simply ignore the comment about Sambuca as he figured it would just lead to an awkward discussion about his time as the premerato there. Upon reflection, it would be his only political success if the execution did occur. He probably only had about a year, or slightly more, until he faced the needle.

"I suppose I don't really have much of a choice, considering the alternative," he said slowly and evenly. "I'll take the plea deal as long as it gets me the hell out of here."

He looked longingly out the tinted windows of the van and his thoughts strayed suddenly to his family. It had been over a year since they were kidnapped and killed on live television... the image of it in his head was still too much... a single tear slid down his face.

Not sure whether the former prime minister was usually this quiet, Brezeanu looked up. He quickly averted his gaze seeing the glint of the fluid trail on Sorantanali's cheek.

The driver of the van turned right onto a two-lane street and coursed through a lower socioeconomic neighbourhood, a shortcut to the court house. Both Sorantanali and Brezeanu looked out the vehicle's windows at their surroundings. Mangy dogs sniffed through piles of rusty scrap metal and refuse. Lawns were bare or the grass was narrowly surviving, but for the most part it was just brown and sparse. Old cars, some of them missing a tire, some of them a door or two, sat idle in oil-stained driveways.

Knobbly old trees hovered menacingly over the monotonous honey-brick bungalows, row upon row. The people visible from the street, old grandmothers knitting on their porches, grandfathers smoking pipes and rocking on an old wooden chair, kids playing half-heartedly in a kiddie pool in the backyard, or kicking a soccer ball on a side alley, blowing up dust from the gravel surface... and all Sorantanali could hope for, in his moment of remorse, was that he wasn't the reason they all lived like this.

[OOC: GREAT description of the hardscrabble streets, Paci! I could really picture it!]

The moments that intervened between Sorantanali's arrival in the courtroom and Judge Joe Whalen's arrival at the bench seemed to be an eternity. And for good reason. Whalen was inside his chambers poring over his notes.

Prosecuting attorney Glenn Wright had sent him the proposed plea agreement and Brezeanu's comments. Sorantanali stole a glance at Wright, who stared toward the bench with a look of steely determination. Wright was clad in a sharply pressed, dark grey suit with light, off-white pinstripes and a black tie. His shoes fairly glistened, even in the low light of the courtroom.

Sorantanali then turned his glance toward Brezeanu. The Pacitalian-born attorney was tall, a fact Sorantanali couldn't have really appreciated inside the van. He was clad in a black sport jacket over a white shirt and a grey tie, along with black slacks and shoes. Sorantanali recognised the make of shoe on Brezeanu. It was of Pacitalian manufacture. He grimaced slightly.

"All rise, the Honourable Joseph P. Whalen presiding." Faces in the courtroom turned to watch a brown haired man clad in a judge's robe with greying brown hair slowly ascend to the bench. He scanned the courtroom and sat down.

"You may be seated."

"Mr. Wright?"

"Your Honour, the state has proposed a deal for the defence regarding the defendant, Signore Constantino Sorantanali," Wright said. He held up two sheets of paper as the bailiff walked over to retrieve them. She then handed one to Brezeanu and walked up with the other sheet to the bench and handed it to Whalen

"We propose that, rather than engage in a trial that would likely drag on for weeks, we agree to drop two counts, of conspiracy to commit economic terrorism and slander, in favour of an agreement whereby the defendant agrees to plead guilty to the count of crimes against Sarzonia.

"The condition defendant would have to agree to is to never set foot in Sarzonia again, lest he be forced to serve the entirety of his sentence in prison."

"Mr. Brezeanu?"

"The defence does not object to the agreement, especially in light of Sarzonian law enforcement's treatment of the defendant during his extradition process," Brezeanu said. "The defendant expresses his concern that he would be abused in Sarzonian prison."

"How does the defendant plea to the count of crimes against Sarzonia?"

Sorantanali stared blankly at Whalen, trying to summon up all the courage of his convictions. He drew in his breath and exhaled slowly.

"Guilty."

Whalen peered out over his glasses, then slowly raised his head.

"Mr. Wright?"

"Had this case gone to trial, the state would have introduced evidence obtained from the joint investigation by the Pacitalian Central Intelligence Commission and the Sarzonian Federal Bureau of Investigations into the actions of the Pacitalian government vis a vis the Seaburg Conference," Wright began. The word Seaburg led to murmurs through the courtroom, which Whalen silenced with three bangs of his gavel.

"I realise that the Seaburg Conference still carries strong feelings for many in this courtroom," Whalen said. "However, I would like to ask that everyone in this courtroom remain silent while Mr. Wright continues. Thank you. Go ahead, Mr. Wright."

"Had this case been brought to trial, the state would have brought forth evidence based on public statements by Signore Sorantanali regarding the President and his status as our nation's chief executive. In addition, the state would have brought forth from the Sarzonian Intelligence Agency and from an additional source, information that would have conclusively proven the full extent of Signore Sorantanali's crimes."

"Thank you, Mr. Wright," Whalen said. "In light of the defendant's plea and the prosecution's and defence's agreement, it is the judgment of this court that the dismissal of the charge of slander is fortunate for the prosecution, since legal precedents both here and in the former United States render such charges extraordinarily difficult to prove.

"With respect to the charge of conspiracy to commit economic terrorism, it is likely that had this case gone to a trial, it would have resulted in a conviction on those charges.

"Mr. Sorantanali, it is obvious that you have no love for the nation of Sarzonia. It is also obvious that the nation of Sarzonia is no place for you to remain, whether you are in custody or not. Due to the nature of the crimes you have pleaded guilty to, I am sentencing you to 50 years in prison should you set foot on Sarzonian soil again.

"In light of the agreement between the state and the defence, you will be immediately remanded to Pacitalian authority and transported directly to Timiocato. Agents from Corrections Pacitalia are in the courtroom now and will immediately transport you to the Woodstock International Jetport for extradition.

"This court agrees with the prosecution and the defence that your sentence would go unserved if you choose to never set foot in Sarzonia again. What you have admitted to doing is so dastardly, so heinous a crime that it can only result in a harsh sentence.

"This courtroom stands adjourned." Whalen then banged his gavel once and agents from Corrections Pacitalia made a beeline for Sorantanali. They then led him out of the courtroom and into a white police van waiting outside the courthouse.

Within the hour, Sorantanali was on the plane and in the air, flying away from a country he acted as though he hated, forever.

The following statement was issued prior to the entry of a guilty plea. It has not since been amended.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e221/Xirnium/letterhead_gove.png

Declaration by the Protectorate on behalf of the Eternal Republic of Xirnium

From:

Her Serene Excellency the Lady Protector of the Eternal Republic


The Eternal Republic has taken note of the conviction of former prime minister Constantino Sorantanali on 17 Avaldôr DCCCLXXXIV in Ferimazzo d’Arra on charges of treason, conspiracy and other activities punishable under the criminal law of the Pacitalian Republic.

The Eternal Republic regards with regret the now considerably better understood circumstances surrounding the assassination of then minister of international relations Sancatto Serra, for which Constantino Sorantanali was found guilty of murder in the fourth degree.

On the other hand the Eternal Republic remains extremely concerned about the claims of non-recognition and the failure to afford adequate protection of the individual rights of the accused, who continues to be prosecuted for offences already tried to conclusion in separate jurisdictions. In particular, the Eternal Republic is worried that Constantino Sorantanali has been subjected to state torture while detained in the Sarzonian Republic, and about the non-respect of the principle that he be treated fairly and justly according to the accepted rules of law and procedure in that same country.

Human dignity and human rights demand cool heads and cool approaches and survive any popular passion, hysteria or frenzy of the moment. The existence of these rights unfortunately seems not always to be respected in the Sarzonian Republic, which has often played loose and fast with principles considered by most civilised nations to be non-derogable. Indeed the Eternal Republic charges that they are being trampled under foot by some who are motivated by the baser, ignoble motives of hatred, cruelty and vengeance. What is being witnessed by the international comity is a needless, unseemly and shameful haste by the state authorities of the Sarzonian Republic, where procedural fairness is being dispensed with and no serious attempt to charge or to prove that Constantino Sorantanali committed a recognised violation of any applicable law is being made. Cynicism, revenge and vindictiveness merely masquerade in a cloak of false legalism, and the Sarzonian Republic makes no attempt to apply the highest standards of justice, but seeks merely to satisfy primitive impulses for retribution by humiliating the accused.

In the opinion of the Eternal Republic, such a process is unworthy of the traditions of the common ideals of mankind. The high feelings of the moment or wounded sensibilities of the Sarzonian Republic are no answer to such charge.

The associated country Ambâlieva aligns herself with this declaration.


[Signed]

Her Most Illustrious Excellency the Most Honourable the High Well Born the Most Noble and Puissant Princess
The Marquise Victórine Katharina á Aumalême zy Seriendé, Seventeenth Marquise of Amärthgwäthern
Lady Protector of the Eternal Republic of Xirnium

[Countersigned]

The Right Honourable Ansgar za Vorämpäl-Angyâr, Member of the Grand Committee of Safety appointed by Authority of Parliament
Lord Commissioner of Safety Extraordinary of the Eternal Republic of Xirnium

[OOC: Xirnium, my government did not make public its treatment of Sorantanali. Secondly, the treatment was not authorised by my government. The events that took place leading up to the trial should be considered secret IC and not privvy to your government.

Unless Sorantanali or Pacitalia's government issues a statement, I'm going to ignore your response.]

[ OOC: Maybe we can just chalk that up to Xirnium having an observer in the court room? I dunno. I didn't release a statement either, though. ]

[ OOC: Maybe we can just chalk that up to Xirnium having an observer in the court room? I dunno. I didn't release a statement either, though. ]

[OOC: If he did, said observer wouldn't have been cleared to be in there.]

[OCC: You say the treatment was not authorised by the Sarzonian government, and yet we’re expected to believe that the cross-institutional secrecy surrounding Sorantanali’s holding and trial in Sarzonia, to prevent outside knowledge of his mistreatment becoming widespread, rivals that of a very deliberate cover-up?

I don’t think ignoring my post is at all necessary. It doesn’t reveal any secret IC information in a way that violates etiquette (none of the actual events that occurred are referred to in a specific way). Even if it is true that trials aren’t public in Sarzonia (and I had assumed that, at least with respect to high-profile international figures, they might be), allegations of abuse may well have come from Sorantanali or other Pacitalian sources instead.

Hopefully when Pacitalia returns he can clear up this matter.]

[ OOC: I think the trial should be public. All trials in Pacitalia are public under the Freedom of Access to Information Act, 1998, and open to the public, no matter the person being tried. I would say that Pacitalian authorities would not have agreed to extradite Sorantanali to Sarzonia for a trial if they had not been given the guarantee that the trial would be fair, open and accessible. After all, the extradition agreement would not oblige extradition, it would simply make it easier. Therefore if Timiocato did not feel Woodstock would respect Pacitalian wishes it would not have agreed to the extradition. It is under that assumption I hope Sarzonia would have made the trial public so as to avoid any sort of concerns it was merely a "show trial".

Given that, I also don't think ignoring a post is necessary. Sarzonian government officials can simply wonder how their Xirnium counterparts know about the abuse or just assume they're bluffing. Either way, Woodstock simply doesn't need to respond to the allegations if they so choose. ]

[OCC: I’m glad we cleared this up, gentlemen.]