Religious Leaders: Police Evidence Must Pass Our Litmus Test Before You Arrest

Over at Nobody's Business, Bakel details a deal where religious leaders are allowed to pre-judge evidence and even the arrest of members of the clergy. I would normally link directly to the U.K. Times story, but I like Bakel's take (and presentation). I strongly suggest you read it.

Here's a teaser of Bakel's commentary:

Think about it. The lay panel members, who do not necessarily even possess a law degree, get to pre-judge the soundness of the evidence as if they were warrant-issuing magistrates. They may call off arrests if they consider the evidence unconvincing, or if police action is likely to displease British Catholics.