Judge in 'Zombie Muhammad' case is relocated after threats, criticism of ruling [View all]

[rug]

Published: Tuesday, February 28, 2012, 2:40 PM
Updated: Tuesday, February 28, 2012, 3:05 PM
By MATTHEW KEMENY, The Patriot-News The Patriot-News

Mechanicsburg District Judge Mark Martin and his staff temporarily relocated to the Cumberland County Courthouse in Carlisle today due to threats his office has received and public criticism of his ruling in the "Zombie Muhammad" case. The county courthouse will make it easier to provide extra security.

For security reasons, Martin did not want to say how long he will be in the county courthouse, but noted his staff will be understanding to those impacted by the change. He said his office received more than 200 phone calls and emails from being criticizing his December ruling.

In addition, some online posts suggested he should be executed, Martin said.

Martin dismissed a harassment charge against 46-year-old Talaag Elbayomy, a Muslim accused of attacking Ernest Perce V, an atheist dressed as what he said was the "Zombie Muhammad" at a Halloween parade in Mechanicsburg last year.

http://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2012/02/judge_in_zombie_muhammad_case.html