Amish Guilty Verdict Appeal

By Angela Hatton

Mayfield, KY – Graves District Court Judge Deborah Crooks gave the men until the end of May to pay fines and court costs. One defendant, Danny Byler, faces four violations and over six hundred dollars in fees. ACLU Staff Attorney William Sharp represents the defendants. Sharp says the ACLU of Kentucky believes the state constitution provides greater protection for individuals to practice their chosen religion than the US Constitution.

This substantial burden on their religious exercise is not narrowly tailored or the least restrictive means necessary to achieve a compelling governmental interest.

Sharp did not comment on the verdict or the fines each man must pay. He says his concern is addressing the constitutional issues in the case. The defense plans to file a motion of appeal with the court within the next month and a half.