Republic of Texas seperatist go on trial [CNN]

[Jim Choate <ravage@ssz.com>]

Forwarded message:

>                   TRIAL SET FOR REPUBLIC OF TEXAS SEPARATISTS
>                                        
>      
>      
>      ALPINE, Texas (Reuters) - Texas separatists who held off police in a
>      seven-day armed standoff in May before surrendering are to go on
>      trial this week on charges of engaging in organized criminal
>      activity.
>      
>      Republic of Texas "ambassador" Richard McLaren and three of his
>      followers could face up to 99 years in prison if found guilty of the
>      first-degree state felony charges.
>      
>      McLaren and his bodyguard Robert "White Eagle" Otto are facing trial
>      together, as are Gregg and Karen Paulson, a married couple who also
>      joined the Republic of Texas group.
>      
>      All four defendants claim that Texas was illegally annexed by the
>      United States in 1845 and that neither state or federal courts have
>      jurisdiction over them.
>      
>      Prosecutors allege McLaren and his followers are common criminals
>      who used the rhetoric of Texas independence as a cover for
>      fraudulent schemes aimed at taking property away from individuals
>      and businesses.
>      
>      McLaren, his wife and several other Republic members also face
>      separate federal fraud and conspiracy charges for allegedly issuing
>      $1.8 billion in bogus financial warrants.
>      
>      Copyright 1997 Reuters Limited. All rights reserved.