Alleged Terrorists & Drug Kingpins in Miami Federal Court - So What?

Miami Federal District Court Judges Federico Moreno and Marcia Cooke, take a bow. ( I currently have no cases before either Judge.)

You have made it clear that justice in your courtroom begins with the word "equal."

These judges are insisting that the defendants before them, alleged Cali Cartel Founder Gilberto Rodriguez-Orejuela, and alleged dirty bomber Jose Padilla, be treated like every other defendant.

Judge Moreno is angry that Rodriguez-Orejuela's attorney is having trouble meeting with him in the Miami Federal Detention Center.

Judge Cooke does not want Mr. Padilla shackled, because no other defendant is treated so in her courtroom.

It's nice to see Judges get passionate about fairness. Many speak of it, but these two have gone a step further, and insisted on it in cases of international interest where many could care less how these defendants are treated.