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John Edward Heid, 53, was given three days credit for time served in jail and sent on his way with two warnings — remain law abiding and no more trespassing, especially on a U.S. military installation.
Assistant City Attorney Brian Glodosky asked Judge Jeff Thompson to sentence Heid to 90 days in jail because he “doesn’t follow the rules” and isn’t a good candidate for probation. He said Heid’s beliefs are “somewhat noble,” but that doesn’t change the fact he was convicted of two misdemeanors.
Heid thanked Thompson for taking the time during his court trial in May to entertain an “unprecedented” discussion of war in the courtroom and invited him to visit the Vietnam War memorial, a replica of which will be in Winona on Saturday. Heid said he appreciated Thompson’s energy and thought placed into his verdict.
Heid went on to say the U.S. government is “intrinsically” connected to war and the only way to change that is through peaceful demonstrations by the people, and that everyone, in some capacity, is guilty of war.
In fact, “I’m guilty of not doing enough to stop war,” he said.
Before reading Heid’s sentence, Thompson said he wasn’t in favor of the Iraq War or the current administration and that he shared Heid’s idea that all people are in some way responsible for the government’s actions. But on the other hand, Thompson said, legal ways exist to bring about change, and Heid was guilty of criminal conduct.
He then read Heid’s sentence, placing extra emphasis on the no-trespassing clause of his probation, saying another trespassing charge would likely lead to a jail sentence.
“It’s not my desire to put you in jail,” Thompson said, “but if you want to go to jail to prove a point, I’m not going to stop you.”
Before leaving the courtroom, Heid offered another invitation to Thompson to visit the traveling Vietnam War memorial Thompson turned him down, but elaborated that he had seen the real wall in Washington, D.C., and had read his college friend’s name on it.
Thompson choked up near the end of his story and tears appeared to fill his eyes as he said the visit was a “very moving experience.” He went on to end Heid’s hearing with his typical line, “That’s all for today,” but sat in silent reflection for a moment before calling the next case.
Kevin Behr may be reached at (507) 453-3524 or at kbehr@winonadailynews.com.
