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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Man jailed for outburst during court

Associated Press

McMINNVILLE, Ore. – A Yamhill County courtroom rant by a man trying to save his male pit bull from death row has gotten him a 30-day jail sentence for contempt.

Jake Milam, of Whiteson, was seeking reconsideration of the death sentence imposed when the dog teamed with a female in the mauling of a neighbor dog.

Judge Ronald Stone stuck to his earlier ruling, returning the female dog but ordering the male dog put to death. But Milam continued to argue his case after Stone adjourned the hearing.

Stone, noting Milam’s anger, told him to be quiet. “Why?” Milam demanded. “Sir, if you say another word, I’m going to put you in jail,” Stone warned, and told him to talk to his lawyer.

When Milam continued his outburst Stone asked security to escort him to the bench.

“I want you to apologize for calling this a kangaroo court,” Stone said, “and for implying that I’ve done something unethical.”

“I absolutely will not, your honor,” Milam replied as court security secured his hands behind his back.

Stone sentenced him to 24 hours in jail for contempt. When Milam kept it up, Stone starting tacking on time. “Two days,” he said. “Three days.” “Four days.” “A week.”

“You’re a cheat and a liar,” Milam shouted as his jail time mounted.

“Thirty days,” Stone finally commanded.