Canada Family Action Coalition (CFAC) is amazed that a judge found "reason" in his decision to declare John Sharpe's stories of sexually using and abusing children as having artistic value. "There is NO reasoning for such a ludicrous decision," says Brian Rushfeldt, Executive Director. "How can a judge consider artistic value when a criminal act such as sexual abuse is encouraged? asks Rushfeldt. This decision is a travesty of the justice system. "

Also, freedom of speech cannot be argued in this case. Freedom of speech is ill understood in the minds of many including Judge Shaw, adds Rushfeldt. "Free speech ends where the advocacy, proposition or suggestion of harm to another human being starts."

Rushfeldt points to the comments made by John Sharpe in one of his other cases when he was first charged with possessing child pornography. Sharpe was quoted as saying, "A person should be allowed to possess anything, even if its an image of an eight-year-old being raped and cut up."

"Someone who advocates materials that show and suggest violence and perverted acts being committed on children is a danger to society," says Rushfeldt.

The Judge has erred in considering artistic value as applicable to the criminal code and criminal acts, points out Rushfeldt. "There is NEVER artistic merit in the sexual exploitation or even the suggestion of abuse of children.

Parliament must amend the Criminal Code to prevent such travesties from happening, he says. And it should immediately invoke the notwithstanding clause to override this terrible judicial decision.

Rushfeldt adds, "This decision really is a highlight case for changing our system - the system of selecting judges, the recall of judges and the reduction of powers of judges. Canadians must now demand that Parliament act responsibly and override this decision."
Contact Brian Rushfeldt:
(403) 295-2159 or Cell (403) 560-2233

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