2009 Law & Justice Events — Verified Historical Highlights

2009 Law & Justice Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to

08 Jan Assassination of Lasantha Wickrematunge: Prominent Sri Lankan journalist Lasantha Wickrematunge was assassinated, highlighting the dangerous conditions for press freedom in the country during this period.
09 Jan Illinois House Votes to Impeach Governor: The Illinois House of Representatives voted 114-1 in favor of impeaching Governor Rod Blagojevich.
10 Jan Arrest of Saudi airline hijacking suspect: On January 10, 2009, authorities arrested a suspect in connection with a hijacking incident involving a Saudi airline. The arrest was part of ongoing efforts to enhance aviation security in the region. source: reuters.com
16 Jan Meredith Kercher Murder Trial: The trial of two accused murderers in the Meredith Kercher case commenced in Perugia, Italy, drawing international media attention.
19 Jan Australian Author Detained in Thailand: Harry Nicolaides, an Australian author, is being held in Thailand for three years for allegedly insulting the Chakri Dynasty.
22 Jan First International Criminal Court trial begins: On January 22, 2009, the first trial at the International Criminal Court (ICC) commenced, focusing on the case against Thomas Lubanga, a Congolese warlord accused of enlisting child soldiers. This trial marked a significant milestone for international justice. source: icc-cpi.int
26 Jan First International Criminal Court trial begins: The first trial at the International Criminal Court (ICC) commenced on January 26, 2009, involving Congolese warlord Thomas Lubanga. He was charged with war crimes related to the recruitment of child soldiers. This trial marked a significant milestone in international law and the prosecution of war crimes. source: icc-cpi.int
27 Jan UK tribunal orders release of Iraq War cabinet minutes: On January 27, 2009, a UK tribunal ordered the release of minutes from cabinet meetings regarding the Iraq War. This decision was significant in the context of transparency and accountability concerning the UK's involvement in the conflict. The release aimed to shed light on the decision-making process leading to the war. source: theguardian.com
28 Jan Blagojevich Impeachment Trial Continues: The impeachment trial of Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich continued, with state senators hearing taped evidence of potential political corruption, as the governor boycotted the proceedings.
04 Feb Benyam Mohammed Torture Allegations: The High Court of Justice revealed that Benyam Mohammed, a British resident, was allegedly tortured, with the United States threatening to withhold intelligence assistance if details were disclosed.
05 Feb Japanese Businessman Arrested for Fraud: Japanese police arrest businessman Kazutsugi Nami for a massive investment fraud scheme totaling $1.4 billion, highlighting financial misconduct in the corporate sector.
08 Feb Venezuela Synagogue Attack Investigation: Venezuelan authorities arrested 11 individuals in connection with a recent attack on a Caracas synagogue, demonstrating efforts to address religious-based violence.
16 Feb Israeli Lawyer Convicted of Holocaust Fraud: An Israeli lawyer was convicted of defrauding Holocaust survivors and was detained for attempting to flee the country, highlighting ongoing legal accountability for financial crimes against vulnerable populations.
25 Feb Iraqi Parliament Lifts MP's Immunity: The Iraqi Council of Representatives voted to lift the parliamentary immunity of Mohammed al-Dayni, a Member of Parliament accused of orchestrating a 2007 attack on Parliament.
26 Feb Milan Milutinovic acquitted of war crimes charges: Milan Milutinovic, the former president of Serbia, was acquitted of war crimes charges by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY). The charges related to alleged crimes committed during the Kosovo conflict. source: bbc.com
04 Mar ICC issues arrest warrant for Sudan's president: On March 4, 2009, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity. This marked a significant moment in international law and accountability for human rights violations in Darfur. source: bbc.com
05 Mar Philippine President Pardons Aquino Assassination Convicts: President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo controversially pardons 10 murderers convicted in the assassination of opposition leader Benigno Aquino, Jr.
06 Mar Swedish pediatrician suspected of infant manslaughter: On March 6, 2009, a Swedish pediatrician was arrested on suspicion of manslaughter following the death of an infant under her care. The case raised significant concerns about medical practices and accountability in Sweden. source: bbc.com
09 Mar UK Debates Hate Speech Legislation: Comedian Rowan Atkinson, politicians, and religious leaders criticized the United Kingdom's proposed legislation to ban homophobic hatred, sparking a national debate on free speech and discrimination.
11 Mar Iraqi officials sentenced for crimes against humanity: On March 11, 2009, several Iraqi officials were sentenced for their roles in crimes against humanity during the regime of Saddam Hussein. This marked a significant step in Iraq's efforts to address past atrocities. source: reuters.com
13 Mar US drops 'enemy combatant' term: On March 13, 2009, the U.S. government announced the discontinuation of the term 'enemy combatant' in legal contexts. This decision was part of a broader shift in U.S. counterterrorism policy under the new administration. source: reuters.com
15 Mar Montreal Police Brutality Protest: A riot against police brutality in Montreal, Canada, resulted in the arrest of 200 protesters.
16 Mar Josef Fritzl pleads guilty to incest and abuse charges: On March 16, 2009, Josef Fritzl, an Austrian man, pleaded guilty to charges of incest, rape, and enslavement after keeping his daughter imprisoned in a cellar for 24 years. The case drew international attention due to the severity and duration of the abuse. Fritzl's guilty plea led to a life sentence in prison. source: bbc.com
17 Mar Luxembourg legalizes euthanasia: On March 17, 2009, Luxembourg's Parliament approved a law legalizing euthanasia by a vote of 30-26. This legislation exempts doctors from legal or civil action when responding to requests for euthanasia or assisted suicide from adults or minors diagnosed with irreversible illnesses. Luxembourg became the third EU country to legalize euthanasia, following the Netherlands and Belgium. source: catholicnewsagency.com
18 Mar DNA exonerates Sean Hodgson: On March 18, 2009, DNA evidence led to the exoneration of Sean Hodgson, who had been wrongfully convicted of murder in 1982. He was released from prison after serving 27 years. source: en.wikipedia.org
19 Mar Josef Fritzl sentenced: On March 19, 2009, Josef Fritzl was sentenced to life imprisonment in Austria for the incestuous rape and imprisonment of his daughter, Elisabeth Fritzl, over 24 years, resulting in the birth of seven children. source: en.wikipedia.org
24 Mar Pilots Jailed for Tuninter Flight Incident: Italian courts sentenced the two pilots of Tuninter Flight 1153 to ten years in prison for their actions before the aircraft ditched into the Mediterranean Sea.
27 Mar Serial Killer Sentenced: Dale Hausner receives six death sentences for a series of murders committed between 2005-2006, bringing closure to a significant criminal case.
30 Mar Khmer Rouge trial begins: On March 30, 2009, the trial of former Khmer Rouge leaders began in Cambodia, addressing crimes committed during the regime's rule from 1975 to 1979. This trial was significant for international justice. source: bbc.com
01 Apr Sweden Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage: The Swedish Parliament passes legislation legalizing same-sex marriage, marking a significant milestone for LGBTQ+ rights.
03 Apr Iowa legalizes same-sex marriage: On April 3, 2009, the Iowa Supreme Court ruled that same-sex marriage was legal, making Iowa the third U.S. state to allow such unions. The decision was celebrated by advocates for LGBTQ+ rights and marked a significant milestone in the fight for marriage equality. source: iowacourts.gov
08 Apr Ian Tomlinson Death Inquest: The United Kingdom Independent Police Complaints Commission announced an inquest into Ian Tomlinson's death, indicating ongoing investigations into potential police misconduct.
15 Apr Pitcairn Islands End Alcohol Prohibition: The Pitcairn Islands, a remote British Overseas Territory, officially abolished its long-standing alcohol prohibition, marking a significant change in local governance.
17 Apr The Pirate Bay founders convicted: On April 17, 2009, the founders of The Pirate Bay were convicted of copyright infringement by a Swedish court. The ruling was significant in the ongoing debate over internet piracy and copyright laws. source: theguardian.com
23 Apr Potential Conflict of Interest in Pirate Bay Trial: Revelations emerged that Judge Tomas Norstrom, presiding over The Pirate Bay trial, was a member of copyright protection organizations, raising serious questions about judicial impartiality in the landmark digital copyright case.
24 Apr Northern Mariana Islands Lieutenant Governor Convicted: Timothy P. Villagomez, Lieutenant Governor of the Northern Mariana Islands, was convicted of fraud, wire fraud, and bribery, highlighting governmental corruption issues.
25 Apr University Professor Murder Accusation: University of Georgia Professor George Zinkhan is accused of killing three people in Athens, Georgia, United States, in a shocking criminal incident.
27 Apr Tragic Police Incident in Moscow: A devastating incident in Moscow, Russia, resulted in three fatalities when a police officer experienced a severe mental breakdown.
01 May Supreme Court Justice David Souter announces retirement: On May 1, 2009, Justice David Souter announced his retirement from the U.S. Supreme Court, effective at the end of the Court's term. His departure opened the door for President Obama to appoint a successor, marking a significant moment in U.S. judicial history. source: nytimes.com
06 May Maine legalizes same-sex marriage: On May 6, 2009, Maine's legislature passed a bill legalizing same-sex marriage, making it the fifth U.S. state to do so. The law was later put to a public vote in November 2009, where it was ultimately repealed. source: npr.org
12 May Nazi Collaborator John Demjanjuk Begins Trial: On May 12, 2009, the trial of John Demjanjuk, a former Nazi collaborator accused of being an accessory to the murder of 27,900 Jews during World War II, began in Germany. The trial was a significant event in the pursuit of justice for Holocaust victims. source: dw.com
13 May France Introduces Internet Piracy Disconnection Law: The French government approved a landmark law allowing internet service providers to disconnect users who are caught illegally downloading copyrighted content three times, marking a significant step in digital copyright enforcement.
17 May Peru Authorizes Military Assistance in Indigenous Dispute: The Peruvian government authorized the National Police to receive military assistance for 30 days during a tense dispute with indigenous populations, highlighting ongoing social tensions.
18 May Aung San Suu Kyi trial: On May 18, 2009, the trial of Myanmar's pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi began. She faced charges of violating the terms of her house arrest by allowing an American intruder into her home. The trial was widely criticized as politically motivated. source: en.wikipedia.org
19 May UK Speaker Michael Martin resigns: On May 19, 2009, Michael Martin, the Speaker of the House of Commons in the United Kingdom, resigned amid a scandal over parliamentary expenses. His departure followed public outcry over the misuse of taxpayer funds by members of parliament. source: en.wikipedia.org
20 May Victoria Stafford Murder Investigation: Two individuals were formally charged by the Woodstock Provincial Police in Ontario, Canada, in connection with the murder of Victoria Stafford, a significant development in a high-profile criminal case.
21 May Israeli settlers expelled from West Bank hilltop: On May 21, 2009, Israeli security forces evacuated and dismantled an unauthorized settlement outpost on a West Bank hilltop, following a High Court order. The move was part of Israel's commitment to freeze settlement expansion. source: timesofisrael.com
22 May Human Trafficking Arrests: Spanish authorities arrested 23 National Police Corps officers for involvement in a human trafficking network exploiting Nigerian women through voodoo intimidation.
26 May Trial of Aung San Suu Kyi begins in Myanmar: The trial of Aung San Suu Kyi began on May 26, 2009, in Myanmar, where she faced charges of violating her house arrest. The trial drew international attention and condemnation from human rights organizations. source: bbc.com
28 May Victor Jara murder prosecution: On May 28, 2009, a Chilean court began the prosecution of former military officials for the murder of folk singer Victor Jara, who was killed during the Pinochet regime in 1973. This case is significant in the context of human rights accountability in Chile. source: theguardian.com
29 May Phil Spector Murder Conviction: Renowned American record producer Phil Spector is serving a 19-year prison sentence for the murder of actress Lana Clarkson.
30 May Jundallah Members Executed for Mosque Bombing: Three members of the Jundallah militant group were hanged for their involvement in a mosque bombing in Zahedan, Iran, on May 28, 2009.
31 May Murder of Dr. George Tiller: On May 31, 2009, Dr. George Tiller, a prominent abortion provider in the United States, was shot and killed in his church in Wichita, Kansas. His murder sparked national outrage and discussions about abortion rights and violence against healthcare providers. source: nytimes.com
01 Jun New U.S. Border Identification Requirements: The United States implements a new requirement mandating passports and other approved identification for entry at all border points, enhancing national security protocols.
02 Jun Aung San Suu Kyi Defense: Defense for Burmese National League for Democracy General Secretary Aung San Suu Kyi claims that John William Yettaw, an intruder, acted independently, in the context of her ongoing legal challenges.
03 Jun New Hampshire Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage: On June 3, 2009, New Hampshire became the sixth U.S. state to legalize same-sex marriage, with the law taking effect on January 1, 2010. source: un.org
04 Jun Data Security Breach in Northern Ireland: Two laptop computers containing sensitive personal information of 30,000 Northern Ireland civil servants were stolen from the Department of Finance and Personnel in Belfast, raising serious data protection and cybersecurity concerns.
09 Jun Shell settles Nigerian environmentalist execution case: On June 9, 2009, Shell agreed to a $15.5 million settlement with the family of Nigerian environmentalist Ken Saro-Wiwa, who was executed in 1995. The settlement aimed to resolve a lawsuit alleging that Shell was complicit in human rights abuses related to Saro-Wiwa's death. source: en.wikipedia.org
15 Jun British Iraq War inquiry announced: On June 15, 2009, the British government announced an inquiry into the Iraq War, aiming to examine the decisions made by the government leading up to the conflict. This inquiry was part of a broader effort to address public concerns regarding the war. source: bbc.com
19 Jun Allen Stanford Financial Fraud: Allen Stanford, chairman of Stanford Financial Group, was taken into custody following serious fraud allegations. This marked a significant moment in financial regulatory enforcement and corporate accountability.
24 Jun Togo abolishes death penalty: Togo's parliament voted to abolish the death penalty, marking a significant step in the country's human rights progress. This decision was celebrated by various human rights organizations. source: reuters.com
28 Jun International Child Pornography Ring Discovered: Swiss authorities uncovered a significant internet child pornography network involving approximately 2,000 IP addresses spanning 78 countries, highlighting the global challenge of cybercrime and online exploitation.
01 Jul Russia Closes Gambling Establishments: A new law comes into effect in Russia, shutting down thousands of casinos, slot-machine parlors, and betting halls nationwide, restricting gambling to only four remote regions and potentially displacing around 400,000 workers.
02 Jul India decriminalizes homosexual activity: On July 2, 2009, the Delhi High Court ruled that consensual homosexual acts between adults are not a crime, overturning a 19th-century law that had criminalized such behavior. This landmark decision was hailed as a significant victory for LGBTQ rights in India. source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
08 Jul News of the World Phone Tapping Scandal Emerges: On July 8, 2009, reports emerged that the British tabloid newspaper News of the World had been involved in phone tapping and other unethical journalistic practices. The scandal led to widespread public outrage and legal investigations into the newspaper's activities. source: en.wikipedia.org
10 Jul Ilan Halimi kidnapping trial concludes with sentencing: On July 10, 2009, the trial for the kidnapping and murder of Ilan Halimi concluded, with Youssouf Fofana receiving a life sentence and other accomplices receiving varying prison terms. source: militantislammonitor.org
12 Jul CIA Intelligence Program Controversy: In July 2009, it was revealed that the CIA had concealed a covert program aimed at capturing or killing al-Qaeda leaders from Congress for eight years. The program, which was terminated by CIA Director Leon Panetta, led to calls for investigations into potential violations of the National Security Act. source: nhregister.com
13 Jul Sotomayor Supreme Court Confirmation Hearings Begin: On July 13, 2009, the Senate Judiciary Committee began confirmation hearings for Sonia Sotomayor, nominated by President Obama to the U.S. Supreme Court. Sotomayor, a federal appellate judge, was the first Hispanic nominee to the Court. source: nytimes.com
16 Jul Controversial death of Malaysian political aide: The death of Teoh Beng Hock, a political aide in Malaysia, on July 16, 2009, sparked widespread controversy and protests. His death occurred under suspicious circumstances while in custody, leading to public outcry and demands for accountability. source: theguardian.com
17 Jul Major Mafia Sentencing in Italy: In a landmark legal case, the Italian government sentenced 49 members of a Sicilian mafia syndicate to prison, representing a significant blow against organized crime.
18 Jul Family Murder in Epping, New South Wales: A tragic incident occurred where five members of a single family were found murdered in Epping, New South Wales, shocking the local community and prompting a criminal investigation.
23 Jul Operation Bid Rig: Major Corruption Probe: On July 23, 2009, federal authorities announced the results of 'Operation Bid Rig,' a major corruption investigation in New Jersey. The operation led to the arrest of several public officials and political figures on charges of bribery and corruption. source: nytimes.com
24 Jul Major Corruption Arrests in New Jersey: On July 24, 2009, several public officials and political figures in New Jersey were arrested as part of a major corruption investigation. The arrests were part of 'Operation Bid Rig,' which targeted bribery and corruption within the state's political system. source: nytimes.com
29 Jul China's Death Penalty Reform: China announces a significant judicial reform, declaring it will reduce the application of the death penalty to only the most serious criminal offenses, signaling a potential shift towards more humane legal practices.
01 Aug Kuala Lumpur Protest Against Security Law: A massive protest erupted in Kuala Lumpur against a controversial security law that permits detention without trial, highlighting concerns about civil liberties and human rights.
03 Aug Guantanamo Bay detainee transferred to Afghanistan: On August 24, 2009, the U.S. Department of Justice announced the transfer of Mohammed Jawad, an Afghan national, from Guantanamo Bay to Afghanistan. This followed a federal court order on July 30, 2009, which determined that Jawad was no longer detainable under the Authorization for Use of Military Force. source: justice.gov
06 Aug Sonia Sotomayor confirmed to U.S. Supreme Court: On August 6, 2009, Sonia Sotomayor was confirmed by the U.S. Senate as the 111th Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, becoming the first Hispanic and third woman to serve on the nation's highest court. source: en.wikipedia.org
07 Aug Ronnie Biggs Released on Medical Grounds: Notorious Great Train Robber Ronnie Biggs was released from prison on medical grounds, marking a significant moment in British criminal history.
09 Aug Prison Break via Hijacked Helicopter: Three men escape from a Belgian prison using a hijacked helicopter, later being captured in Morocco.
10 Aug CIA interrogation abuse investigation: On August 10, 2009, the U.S. Department of Justice announced an investigation into alleged abuse during CIA interrogations. The inquiry aimed to determine the legality and extent of the practices used in the agency's detention facilities. source: nytimes.com
11 Aug Aung San Suu Kyi sentenced: On August 11, 2009, Myanmar's military junta sentenced pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi to 18 months of house arrest. The sentence was widely criticized by the international community as politically motivated. source: bbc.com
12 Aug Rwandan genocide fugitive arrested: A Rwandan man accused of participating in the 1994 genocide was arrested in France, marking a significant development in international justice efforts. source: bbc.com
14 Aug Omar Khadr's Guantanamo Bay status challenged: The U.S. military tribunal at Guantanamo Bay began hearings to determine the status of Canadian detainee Omar Khadr, accused of war crimes as a child soldier. source: cbc.ca
15 Aug Berlusconi's Anti-Crime Pledge: Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi announced a comprehensive four-year plan to crack down on organized crime during a press conference.
19 Aug Florida executes John Marek for 1983 murder: John Marek was executed by lethal injection at Florida State Prison on August 19, 2009, for the 1983 murder of Adella Marie Simmons. Marek had been on death row for 26 years before his execution. source: en.wikipedia.org
27 Aug Sri Lanka rejects war crimes video: On August 27, 2009, the Sri Lankan government rejected a video released by the Channel 4 News alleging war crimes committed by its military during the final stages of the civil war. The government termed the footage as fabricated and part of a propaganda campaign. source: reuters.com
28 Aug Berlusconi's International Legal Battles: Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi initiated legal actions against multiple international newspapers, charging them with libel and attempting to control media narratives.
30 Aug Ehud Olmert indicted: Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert was indicted on bribery and obstruction of justice charges related to a real estate scandal during his tenure as mayor of Jerusalem. source: bbc.com
31 Aug Nigerian Bank Executives Charged: Nigerian banking officials face criminal charges following a $2.6 billion bank bailout, signaling increased financial regulation and accountability.
01 Sep Guatemalan war criminal sentenced: A Guatemalan court sentenced former military officer Pedro Pimentel Rios to 6,060 years in prison for his role in the 1982 Dos Erres massacre, where over 200 people were killed. source: bbc.com
02 Sep Pinochet era accountability: Chile's Supreme Court ruled that former dictator Augusto Pinochet could face trial for human rights abuses committed during his regime, allowing legal proceedings to move forward. source: bbc.com
03 Sep Aung San Suu Kyi's legal appeal: On September 3, 2009, a Yangon court rejected Aung San Suu Kyi's appeal against her extended house arrest. The court upheld her conviction for violating the terms of her house arrest after an uninvited visitor entered her home. Her legal team planned to take the case to the high court. source: taipeitimes.com
05 Sep Irish Diplomatic Mission to Sudan Regarding Kidnappings: Ireland's Minister for External Affairs, Micheal Martin, traveled to Khartoum to engage with Sudanese officials concerning the kidnappings of Hilda Kawuki and Sharon Commins, which occurred nine weeks prior.
06 Sep Acid attack reported in Hong Kong: An acid attack occurred in Hong Kong on September 6, 2009, resulting in serious injuries to the victim. The incident raised concerns about public safety and prompted discussions on crime prevention measures in the city. source: scmp.com
07 Sep Sudanese activist convicted for wearing trousers: On September 7, 2009, Sudanese journalist and activist Lubna Ahmed al-Hussein was found guilty of indecency for wearing trousers, a violation of Sudan's public order law. Al-Hussein, who worked for the United Nations Mission in Sudan, had been arrested in July 2009 for wearing trousers in a Khartoum restaurant. The court fined her 500 Sudanese pounds, and she faced the possibility of 40 lashes. Her case drew international attention and sparked debates over women's rights and freedom of expression in Sudan. source: en.wikipedia.org
08 Sep Norwegian nationals sentenced to death in Congo: On September 8, 2009, two Norwegian nationals were sentenced to death in the Democratic Republic of Congo for their involvement in the killing of a Congolese driver. The Norwegian men, who were working as security guards for a mining company, were convicted of murder and sentenced to death by firing squad. The case highlighted the challenges of security and justice in conflict zones and strained diplomatic relations between Norway and the DRC. source: reuters.com
10 Sep British government apologizes to Alan Turing: On September 10, 2009, the British government issued a formal apology to the family of Alan Turing, the renowned mathematician and computer scientist, for his prosecution in 1952 for homosexual acts, which led to his chemical castration. The apology acknowledged the 'appalling' treatment Turing received and was part of a broader effort to address historical injustices against LGBTQ individuals in the UK. source: bbc.com
11 Sep Former Taiwanese president sentenced for corruption: On September 11, 2009, former Taiwanese President Chen Shui-bian was sentenced to life imprisonment for corruption charges. The court found him guilty of embezzling state funds and accepting bribes during his tenure as president. source: reuters.com
14 Sep Clearstream Political Trial Begins in France: A high-profile political trial commenced at the Palais de Justice, featuring a legal confrontation between former Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin and President Nicolas Sarkozy in the controversial Clearstream affair.
15 Sep UN Report Alleges Gaza War Crimes: On September 15, 2009, the United Nations Fact-Finding Mission on the Gaza Conflict, led by Justice Richard Goldstone, released a report accusing both Israel and Palestinian armed groups of committing war crimes during the Gaza conflict. The report found evidence of serious violations of international human rights and humanitarian law by both parties. source: aljazeera.com
16 Sep UN Goldstone Report on Gaza Conflict: On September 16, 2009, the United Nations released the Goldstone Report, officially titled "Human Rights in Palestine and Other Occupied Arab Territories: Report of the United Nations Fact-Finding Mission on the Gaza Conflict." The report concluded that both Israel and Palestinian armed groups committed war crimes and possibly crimes against humanity during the Gaza conflict. source: un.org
18 Sep Aung San Suu Kyi legal proceedings: Aung San Suu Kyi, the Burmese opposition leader, faced legal proceedings that drew international attention. Her trial was seen as politically motivated, reflecting the ongoing struggle for democracy in Myanmar. source: bbc.com
19 Sep FBI Terror Investigation Arrests in Denver: Two men were arrested in Denver, Colorado, as part of an ongoing FBI terror investigation.
20 Sep War crimes transfer: Ndahimana to face ICTR trial: The International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR) announced the transfer of Ndahimana to face trial for war crimes. This case is part of ongoing efforts to address accountability for atrocities committed during the Rwandan genocide. source: reuters.com
22 Sep Mesac Damas Extradited to Haiti for Family Murder Trial: American Mesac Damas was extradited to Haiti to face trial for the brutal murders of his six family members in Florida, United States.
25 Sep Poland Passes Chemical Castration Law for Pedophiles: The Polish government approved a controversial law mandating chemical castration for convicted pedophiles, sparking significant debate about criminal justice and human rights.
26 Sep Spain Announces Abortion Law Liberalization: The Spanish government officially announced plans to liberalize the country's abortion laws, signaling a significant shift in reproductive rights legislation.
28 Sep Alberto Fujimori Legal Proceedings: Former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori pleaded guilty to illegal phone-tapping and bribing journalists, businessmen, and opposition politicians.
29 Sep Alberto Fujimori Legal Proceedings: Former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori pleaded guilty to bribery and spying charges against his political rivals during his presidency, marking a significant moment in Peru's efforts to address political corruption.
01 Oct Supreme Court of the United Kingdom established: On October 1, 2009, the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom was established, marking a significant change in the UK's judicial system. The new court took over the judicial functions of the House of Lords, providing a clearer separation between the legislature and the judiciary. source: supremecourt.uk
02 Oct Aung San Suu Kyi's detention continues in Myanmar: On October 2, 2009, Myanmar's military government extended the detention of pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Her continued house arrest drew international criticism and highlighted ongoing human rights concerns in the country. source: bbc.com
03 Oct Press Freedom Protest in Rome: Thousands of protesters gather in Rome to demonstrate for press freedom, expressing concerns about potential government interference in media operations.
05 Oct FTC Introduces Blogger Regulations: The United States Federal Trade Commission established new regulations for bloggers, addressing disclosure and transparency in online content and advertising.
06 Oct Irish Parliamentary Speaker Resigns Over Expense Controversy: John O'Donoghue, Ireland's Ceann Comhairle (Parliamentary Speaker), resigned following a public controversy surrounding questionable expense claims, reflecting ongoing accountability issues in Irish political leadership.
07 Oct Italian Court Overturns Berlusconi Immunity Law: Italy's Constitutional Court declared unconstitutional a law providing Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi immunity from prosecution, marking a significant moment in Italian legal and political history.
08 Oct Colombian Intelligence Restructuring: Colombia's Administrative Department of Security will be demolished and renamed the 'Agencia Central de Inteligencia' (Central Intelligence Agency), signaling a potential reorganization of the country's intelligence infrastructure.
10 Oct British MPs expenses controversy: On October 10, 2009, the United Kingdom's parliamentary expenses scandal continued to unfold, with revelations about improper claims by Members of Parliament. The controversy led to public outrage and calls for reform in parliamentary procedures. source: theguardian.com
12 Oct Six Uyghurs sentenced to death over Xinjiang riots: On October 12, 2009, six individuals were sentenced to death for their involvement in the July 5 riots in Urumqi, Xinjiang, which resulted in nearly 200 deaths and over 1,600 injuries. The convictions included charges of murder, arson, and robbery. These sentences were part of China's efforts to address the unrest and its aftermath. source: pbs.org
13 Oct Tragic Conclusion to Aisling Symes Case: New Zealand police confirmed through autopsy that two-year-old Aisling Symes tragically drowned. The child was found in a drain after being missing for a week, ending a distressing search and investigation.
14 Oct Michael Sinnott Kidnapping Incident: Irish politicians and bishops urgently request the release of Michael Sinnott, emphasizing his critical need for immediate medical attention. The kidnapping highlights ongoing security challenges in the region.
15 Oct Uganda's Controversial Anti-Homosexuality Bill: Ugandan MP David Bahati proposed a highly controversial bill that would criminalize homosexuality, proposing capital punishment for gay sex involving minors or HIV-positive individuals.
16 Oct UN Human Rights Council endorses Goldstone Report on Gaza War: On October 16, 2009, the United Nations Human Rights Council endorsed the Goldstone Report, which investigated alleged human rights violations during the Gaza War. The endorsement led to international debates and discussions on accountability and justice. source: en.wikipedia.org
20 Oct US Supreme Court to hear appeal on Guantanamo detainee release: On October 20, 2009, the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear an appeal concerning the release of Uyghur detainees from Guantanamo Bay. The case questioned whether federal courts have the authority to order the release of detainees into the United States. The Court declined to rule on this matter in March 2010, stating it was a court of review, not of first view. source: en.wikipedia.org
22 Oct Sakharov Prize Awarded to Russian Civil Rights Organization: Memorial, a Russian civil rights organization, was presented with the 2009 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, recognizing its significant human rights work.
23 Oct Thomas P. G. Cholmondeley Released from Prison: Thomas P. G. Cholmondeley, a white Kenyan landowner, was released after serving five months in prison for manslaughter, marking a significant legal resolution in a high-profile case.
26 Oct Saudi King Lifts Journalist's Punishment: King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia commutes the 60-lash sentence for Rosanna Yaami, a female journalist involved in the Red Lines sexual scandal.
27 Oct French Political Figures Convicted of Illegal Arms Sales: Jean-Christophe Mitterrand, son of former French President François Mitterrand, and ex-minister Charles Pasqua were convicted of illegal arms sales to Angola, revealing complex political corruption networks.
28 Oct Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Prevention Act: On October 28, 2009, President Obama signed the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act into law. This legislation expanded federal hate crime laws to include those motivated by sexual orientation and gender identity. It was a significant step in the fight against hate crimes in the United States. source: congress.gov
29 Oct Rwandan genocide perpetrator sentenced in Canada: On October 29, 2009, a Rwandan man was sentenced in Canada for his role in the 1994 Rwandan genocide. This case was part of Canada's efforts to address international crimes and provide justice for victims of genocide. The sentencing underscored the importance of accountability for such atrocities. source: cbc.ca
02 Nov Simon Mann Receives Presidential Pardon: Simon Mann, a British mercenary serving a 34-year prison sentence in Equatorial Guinea for his role in a failed coup, was granted a presidential pardon. This event reveals the complex dynamics of international mercenary activities and political negotiations.
03 Nov Maine voters reject same-sex marriage law: On November 3, 2009, Maine voters rejected a law legalizing same-sex marriage, with approximately 53% voting against and 47% in favor. The law had been signed by Governor John Baldacci in May 2009 but was overturned by the referendum. This outcome made Maine the 31st state to reject same-sex marriage through a popular vote. source: christian.org.uk
06 Nov Tragic Truck Collision in China: In Luanxian, Hebei province, China, a devastating truck collision with a crowd resulted in 19 fatalities, highlighting road safety concerns.
07 Nov Andorra Bridge Collapse Tragedy: A bridge under construction in Andorra collapsed, resulting in the deaths of two workers and highlighting infrastructure safety concerns.
08 Nov ICC indicts Sudan's president: On November 8, 2009, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an indictment against Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir for war crimes and crimes against humanity. This marked a significant moment in international law and accountability. source: bbc.com
10 Nov French Polynesian Political Corruption Investigation: Gaston Flosse, the former President of French Polynesia, was taken into custody as part of an ongoing corruption investigation, signaling potential political accountability.
11 Nov Raymond Jessup Sentenced for Sexual Assault: Raymond Jessup was sentenced to 10 years in prison for sexual assault of an underage girl, following investigations related to the YFZ Ranch raid in Eldorado, Texas in April 2008.
15 Nov Fugitive Domenico Raccuglia Captured: Domenico Raccuglia, who had been on the run for 15 years, was finally taken into custody, marking the end of a long manhunt.
16 Nov UK's 'Night Stalker' Charged: A notorious serial criminal known as the 'Night Stalker' was formally charged with 22 serious offenses targeting elderly victims between 1992 and 2009.
17 Nov Indonesia's Watergate Corruption Probe: An investigation into the 'Indonesia's Watergate' scandal reveals corruption allegations against two police officers, highlighting ongoing challenges with institutional integrity.
18 Nov Australia Investigates Church of Scientology: Following Senator Nick Xenophon's criticism, Prime Minister Kevin Rudd announces a governmental investigation into the Church of Scientology in Australia.
19 Nov Bangladesh Supreme Court Upholds Assassination Sentences: Bangladesh's Supreme Court confirms death sentences for five soldiers convicted of assassinating Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the country's founding father, in a landmark judicial decision.
22 Nov South Korean Serial Killer Commits Suicide: Jeong Nam-gyu, one of South Korea's most notorious serial killers, died by suicide while in his death row cell, bringing an end to his criminal saga.
24 Nov International Criminal Court Begins Trial of Congolese Militia Leaders: On November 24, 2009, the International Criminal Court commenced the trial of Congolese militia leaders accused of war crimes. This trial was significant in the context of international justice and accountability. source: bbc.com
25 Nov Khmer Rouge Trial Prosecution Request: In the trial of Kaing Guek Eav, a former Khmer Rouge prison chief, prosecutors requested a 40-year prison sentence for his role in historical atrocities.
26 Nov Dublin Catholic Church abuse scandal: In November 2009, the Dublin Archdiocese in Ireland was implicated in a significant child abuse scandal. A report revealed that church officials had covered up decades of sexual abuse by priests, leading to widespread public outrage and calls for accountability within the church. source: theguardian.com
27 Nov South Korea Acknowledges Mass Civilian Executions: The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of South Korea publicly admitted that the government had executed approximately 5,000 civilians suspected of sympathizing with North Korea during the initial months of the Korean War, a significant historical revelation addressing past human rights violations.
28 Nov Pakistan's National Reconciliation Ordinance expires: On November 28, 2009, Pakistan's National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO), a controversial amnesty law, expired. The NRO had been enacted in 2007 to grant amnesty to politicians and officials accused of corruption, but its expiration led to legal challenges and political debates within Pakistan. source: bbc.com
02 Dec John Demjanjuk Trial Postponed Due to Illness: The trial of John Demjanjuk was rescheduled after the defendant's health complications, continuing the legal proceedings against the alleged Nazi war criminal.
03 Dec Death Sentences in Xinjiang Riots: Five individuals received death sentences for their involvement in the July riots in Urumqi and Xinjiang, northwestern China, reflecting the severe legal consequences of civil unrest.
04 Dec Amanda Knox convicted in Meredith Kercher's murder: An Italian court convicted Amanda Knox and her then-boyfriend Raffaele Sollecito of the 2007 murder of British student Meredith Kercher in Perugia, Italy. Knox was sentenced to 26 years in prison, and Sollecito to 25 years. The prosecution's case was largely based on DNA evidence, which was later contested. source: cbsnews.com
05 Dec Amanda Knox murder conviction: On December 5, 2009, Amanda Knox was convicted of murder in Italy, a case that garnered international attention. The conviction was controversial and led to extensive media coverage. source: nytimes.com
07 Dec Dublin Bishop Resignation: Bishop Dermot O'Mahony resigns as Patron of The Irish Pilgrimage Trust after facing severe criticism for his inadequate response to child sexual abuse allegations.
08 Dec Assassination of Anti-Drug Unit Chief: Julian Aristides Gonzalez, the head of Honduras' anti-drug trafficking unit, was shot and killed by unidentified gunmen, underscoring the dangerous landscape of drug-related law enforcement in the region.
09 Dec Irish bishops apologize for child abuse: The Irish Bishops' Conference issued a public apology for the sexual abuse suffered by children under the care of priests, acknowledging the 'scale and depravity of abuse' described in the Murphy Report. They committed to working with the government to establish mechanisms ensuring proper handling of abuse allegations. source: catholicbishops.ie
10 Dec Landmark Irish Supreme Court Decision on Sperm Donation: The Supreme Court of Ireland ruled that a gay sperm donor named "A" would have access to the child born to a lesbian couple. The GLEN organization expressed concerns about the court's rejection of the lesbian couple as a "de facto" family, highlighting complex legal and social issues surrounding non-traditional family structures.
11 Dec Assassination Attempt on Papua New Guinea Ombudsman: An apparent assassination attempt resulted in injuries to Chronox Manek, the Chief Ombudsman of Papua New Guinea, signaling potential political instability in the region.
12 Dec Martial law lifted in Maguindanao, Philippines: On December 12, 2009, the Philippine government lifted the state of martial law in Maguindanao province, which had been imposed following a massacre that resulted in the deaths of 57 people. The decision to lift martial law was made after the arrest of key suspects and the restoration of order in the region. source: philstar.com
15 Dec Israel Condemns UK War Crimes Warrant: Israel condemned the UK's decision to issue an arrest warrant for former Israeli Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni on charges of war crimes related to the Gaza conflict. The incident strained diplomatic relations between the two countries. source: bbc.com
16 Dec Pakistan Supreme Court Nullifies NRO: The Supreme Court of Pakistan declared the National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO) unconstitutional, enabling the reopening of corruption cases against President Muhammad Ali Zardari and other high-ranking officials. This decision was a significant moment in Pakistan's judicial history.
17 Dec Bishop of Limerick resigns amid abuse allegations: On December 17, 2009, the Bishop of Limerick, Donal Murray, resigned following allegations of mishandling sexual abuse cases within the Catholic Church. His resignation was part of a broader response to criticism of the Church's handling of abuse allegations in Ireland. source: irishtimes.com
18 Dec Auschwitz sign theft: A sign reading 'Arbeit Macht Frei' was stolen from the entrance of the Auschwitz concentration camp in Poland. source: en.wikipedia.org
20 Dec US Military Pregnancy Regulation: On December 20, 2009, the U.S. military announced new regulations regarding pregnancy, aiming to provide better support for service members who become pregnant. This policy change was part of broader efforts to address family and health issues within the military. source: defense.gov
22 Dec Shooting Incident in Pierce County: A shooting incident involving Pierce County sheriff's deputies resulted in two officers being injured and one suspect killed, highlighting local law enforcement challenges.
23 Dec Trial of Liu Xiaobo for subversion in China: On December 23, 2009, Liu Xiaobo, a prominent Chinese dissident, was tried at Beijing No. 1 Intermediate Court for 'inciting subversion of state power.' Liu co-authored 'Charter 08,' a manifesto calling for political reforms and greater human rights in China. The trial was criticized by international human rights organizations as a violation of Liu's rights to free expression. source: aljazeera.com
24 Dec Russian President Orders Police Force Reduction: Following a series of scandals involving police misconduct, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev signed an order mandating a 20% staff reduction in the Interior Ministry, signaling efforts to address corruption and improve law enforcement standards.
25 Dec China sentences activist Liu Xiaobo: On December 25, 2009, Chinese authorities sentenced activist Liu Xiaobo to 11 years in prison for 'inciting subversion of state power.' Liu was a prominent critic of the Chinese government and had co-authored 'Charter 08,' a manifesto calling for political reforms and greater human rights in China. source: hrw.org
28 Dec First legal gay marriage in Latin America: On December 28, 2009, Argentina became the first country in Latin America to legalize same-sex marriage. The legislation granted same-sex couples the same legal rights as heterosexual couples, marking a significant milestone for LGBTQ+ rights in the region. source: reuters.com
29 Dec Execution of Akmal Shaikh in China: Akmal Shaikh, a 53-year-old British national, was executed in China for drug smuggling despite appeals for clemency, including claims of his mental illness. source: abc.net.au

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