Richard L. Powell testified that the shotgun he fired near a census worker was nothing more than an “exclamation point” -- a way of getting his message across. But a six-man jury in St. Maries didn’t buy it. Mr. Powell, 55, was found guilty Feb. 23 of misdemeanor disturbing the peace and sentenced to five days in Benewah County jail. In addition, the court withheld judgment for two years and ordered Mr. Powell to pay $437.50 in court costs. He is also not allowed to exhibit a firearm in an aggressive or rude manner toward anyone/Chris D'Angelo, St. Maries Gazette-Record. More here.

Question: Why are census workers viewed with suspicion in some back-woods areas of North Idaho?