OAP couple jailed for talking to grandson

Full Story:
http://www.stopinjusticenow.com/News_0499.htm
A PENSIONER couple have been handed jail sentences for getting in touch with their grandson. A 71 year-old man was jailed for 20 months during a private hearing in the Midlands, held without a jury. And the 61 year-old grandmother was given a 12-month term, which has been suspended for two years. The pair were found guilty of being in contempt of court at a Nottingham Family Court hearing on Friday. The woman is the natural grandmother of the youngster, and her former partner is step-grandad. Their teenage grandson is in the care of the city's social services department. No further details about the case, which was heard at Nottingham County Court, can be revealed by the Sunday Mercury because of legal red tape. But the tough sentences have shocked Birmingham Liberal Democrat MP John Hemming. Last night, he voiced his concerns about the case, and called for an end to secrecy in the courts. "With all the violent criminals we have got problems with, it seems odd that a judge would imprison someone for 20 months for talking to his grandson," said Mr Hemming. "There are serious questions that need answering about this issue." Mr Hemming has been campaigning to end the secrecy in the family courts. Campaigners say parents are warned that if they tell anyone - even their closest family - what goes on, they could face prison for contempt of court in some cases. Family courts now deal with nearly half a million cases every year in private. It is believed as many as 200 people were jailed during private proceedings in the family courts in 2005. Deputy Labour leader Harriet Harman issued proposals to promote more openness in the family courts while she was Minister of State for Constitutional Affairs last year. "Taking a child from its mother and placing it for adoption changes the life of that child irrevocably," she said. "The right judgement can mean the child's life can be saved.

Why Not Come And Join The
‘Stop Injustice Now’ Forum:
http://justice001.suddenlaunch3.com/index.cgi
Or Visit Our Shop:
http://www.stopinjusticenow.com/Stop_Injustice_Now_Shop.htm