JoCo grand jury issues obscenity indictments
UPDATED: Brian, the DA's spokesman, wrote back with a couple of notes. One, the grand jury was initiated by a petition drive, and grand juries get to decide what they're presented with. There are 15 citizens on a grand jury -- 12 of them have to agree before an indictment is issued.
He also points out the statutes that apply in this case. To see, go to http://www.kslegislature.org/legsrv-statutes/index.do, and look for 21-4502 and 21-4301.
UPDATED: OK, we've got the indictments, courtesy of Diane Carroll, who covers Johnson County courts. They're downloadable as Word documents. They might have language you consider objectionable.
Spirit Halloween
-- accused of selling "Country Lovin'", "Tricky Dick," "Wet T-Shirt" and "Snake Charmer" costumes. (Don't exactly know what they look like.)
Priscilla's -- accused of selling a series of sex toys, including a dildo, and a DVD with a title that my editor would kill me if I printed.
Hollywood at Home -- accused of selling adult DVDs.
PREVIOUSLY: A JoCo grand jury has indicted three businesses on charges of promoting obscenity. You know, I'm a little surprised it's gotten to this point. The grand jury's done a lot of work, but it seems like they talked everything BUT obscenity, until now.
Johnson County does have a clearly spelled-out list of what is and isn't considered a breach of community standards, though, as established by a grand jury in 1989. Selling a porno movie that lacks a "significant storyline or plot" is a no-no under those rules. But I'm not sure how closely this grand jury consulted the old report.
Again, I don't know any of these businesses -- or what they're accused of selling. Maybe it's something truly obscene. I'm curious to see what specifically the grand jury reviewed. A little help, gentle reader: Does anybody have any experience with these stores?
From Sara Shepherd's story:
A grand jury has accused three Johnson County businesses of promoting obscenity, according to indictments handed down late Tuesday. ... Each of the three businesses was indicted on multiple counts, all misdemeanors.
According to court documents:
• Spirit Halloween, 6824 W. 119th St. in Overland Park, displayed adult costumes where minors could view them.
• Hollywood at Home, 9063 Metcalf Avenue in Overland Park, “unlawfully and knowingly or recklessly” possessed and intended to sell obscene DVDs.
• Priscilla’s, 1848 East Santa Fe St. in Olathe, possessed and intended to sell various obscene devices and an obscene DVD.



Any obscenity standard set by a 1989 grand jury would be hopelessly out of date in 2007. In those days you couldn't get porn on your cell phone, and high school girls didn't attend class dressed like underwear models.
Posted by: Boyo | Tuesday, September 25, 2007 at 11:54 PM
• Priscilla’s, 1848 East Santa Fe St. in Olathe, possessed and intended to sell various obscene devices and an obscene DVD.
Isnt that what you go to Priscilla's to buy? I agree with the first post, 1989 is extremely outdated and needs a serious updating.
Posted by: A | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 01:07 AM
There used to be a place called Spencers at Independence Center, accidentally walked into it one time and wow, in the back was all kinds shall we say "adult items", shocked my poor little innocent self.
There also used to be a place called After Dark Videos on Westport. Being much older and wiser, I jauntily went in and after about 30 seconds, went running back out the door.
Posted by: CareBear | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 04:14 AM
Spencers is a great store. Love to go in there and see whats new.
Posted by: A | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 04:41 AM
Well A, I am in shock! There is NEVER anyone up this time of mornin. Is Spencers still at the Center? At my age now, there is absolutely nothing that would shock me. I do remember that what drew me in there in the first place was the smell of incense. Always loved that, kinda reminds me of the Age of Aquarius era.
Posted by: CareBear | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 04:57 AM
The whole problem is that many people think that nature is obscene. People are horny, they like sex, and porn steams them up. That's the purpose of it. To get the juices flowing and the erection growing. For the life of me, I can't understand what's wrong with that. I mean it like happens billions of times a day in the world.
Posted by: Door King | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 06:18 AM
Spencers - remember when the back part was where you got your 'smoking' products, papers, incense, etc. Now, adult toys and games.
Spirit of Halloween? - Come on, that store shows up around town about this time of year and sells Halloween outfits, and yard decorations. I love the place. Halloween is my favorite holiday. Yes, I am morbid, turn my yard into a graveyard. Have to tone back this year though, found out I freaked a lot of the little ones out last year.
Posted by: The_Golfer | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 07:31 AM
That's funny golfer. Got a friend the same way. He has built his own guilateen, casket and has made a 50ftwide spiderweb in the front yard. He hides on the porch in a costume that looks like a hanging skeleton and scares the kids when they come to the door. The whole family is into it. The 4 year old lays in the casket and sits up when people come by!
It is halloween.. you are supposed to do things that scare you!
Posted by: Searching | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 07:48 AM
This is what you get when you put Phil Kline into politics.
Is he gone get?
Is he gone yet?
Is he gone yet?
Posted by: jpbikerfreak aka cartman | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 07:54 AM
Someone is selling adult material to adults!!! Alert the Church Elders!
I moved away from the KC area more than 15 years ago. Everytime I start to forget why I left, something like this pops up to remind me. The Puritans may have landed on Plymouth Rock, but they are alive and well in KC.
All you people complaining about the government wasting its time and your money on these witch hunts should remember how embarrassed you are come election day.
Posted by: EAW | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 08:31 AM
Welcome to Jo-Co please set your watches back 100 years.
Even Dr. Ruth (who was just in the news yesterday) was talking about how sex toys and pornographic viewing matter was helpful in keeping a healthy relationship going.
It is so funny to see all these ads for Viagra when about 5 minutes of porn would do the job just as well and 3 times as fast.
Posted by: unnamed assailant | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 08:47 AM
Anyone who has ever heard of Priscilla’s knows the sell adult items who cares fun loveing adults need a place to shop too and I bet if you go to any good halloween store you will see adult costumes in plain veiw where children can see them this world has gotten too stupid for its own good
Posted by: annprkr | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 08:48 AM
Smoking products at Spencer's? We spent so much money in there growing up. I don't remember any smoking accessories. This during the era of late 70's early 80's. How long has Spencer's been around?
JP might remember the headshop on 76th & Metcalf next to Western Auto. 7th Heaven used to have a shop on Santa Fe near Swim Quick.
As Archie Bunker said, "those were the days"
Posted by: JewwellsP | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 08:53 AM
We must keep consenting adults from sinning and not being able to get into heaven. Its for their own good. We the Government Know Best.
(end sarcasm)
Posted by: Porn Nazi | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 08:54 AM
Besides, just what is wrong with porn?
I appreciate the fact that some chick wants to show it all to me. Their just trying to make a $ too.
Posted by: JewwellsP | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 08:55 AM
Well, sounds like I moved away from Kansas City and the midwest just in time. Kline is up to his usual Puritanical BS. Serioulsy, when that headline showed up in the inbox I thought "Jesus H. Christ! Does the man seriously not have anything else to do in his work day?"
Posted by: Beth | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 08:55 AM
I will add this item to my list of why I will never live in KS.
Posted by: wellpaidscientist | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 09:04 AM
to cartman:
This is what you get when you put GEORGE BUSH into politics:
Is he gone yet?
Is he gone yet?
Is he gone yet?
Nope, but I'm still waiting!!!
Posted by: Mickey Mouse | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 09:15 AM
7th Heaven was in Westport, well, a long time ago
Posted by: | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 09:24 AM
Does this law revolve around that it is/was illegal to sell or rent any movie deemed as X-rated? I remember hearing from a guy at a movie place that they could not rent a Clockwork Orange because it received an X-rating and renting it would be against the law.
Posted by: Scott R. | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 09:27 AM
Scott: Not sure. I just wrote an email to the DA's spokesman asking about the specific titles and community standards, but I'm not sure how much they'll be able to release right away.
Posted by: James Hart | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 09:29 AM
Wow, that makes me really happy to see the government intervening in what can and cannot be sold at an adult store.
With any luck, I can get a meal itinerary sent to me so I can eat what the government tells me to.
Maybe we can also get a list of words that we can't think or say out loud for fear of offending absolutely anyone.
This $h1t is absolutely ridiculous. It kind of reminds me of the suppression of Moveon.org's Petreaus ad.
Freedom isn't free here.
Posted by: JG | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 09:40 AM
Clockwork Orange is rated X?.. The film that started rhymning speech amongst British teens in the early 70's.. Wasnt that about brainwashing inmates so that they were incapable of committing crimes without becoming violently ill? Rated X? OK, I am surprised at that!
Posted by: Searching | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 09:49 AM
JewwellsP - The Spencer's, in Memphis where I grew up, sold the stuff. Along with black lights, black light posters, etc.
Some of the clothes were Victoria Secret style before Vic became known.
(Starts daydreaming about the girl friends who would buy and wear the stuff......) GOOD times.
Posted by: The_Golfer | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 09:50 AM
When Clockwork Orange first came out, it was rated X. That I remember.
Posted by: The_Golfer | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 09:51 AM
searching: Yeah, X wasn't the scarlet letter it is today. Originally, it was used for mature films that -- while they add sex or violence or extreme profanity -- often had a lot of artistic merit, too. "Midnight Cowboy" was rated X and won an Academy Award.
Posted by: James Hart | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 09:51 AM
Back when Seventh Heaven was around, the world wasn't so uptight. Now you can go to jail for anything.
I've been to Priscilla's and Spencer's. And I think I will still go to Heaven.
Posted by: kay | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 09:52 AM
Well personally, after seeing first hand how the Priscilla’s at 75th and Metcalf was being run, and the apparent lack of standards our City Council has adopted in licensing businesses. I'm glad to see someone start enforcing the laws for a change.
If I ever lose my imagination, creative thoughts and credit card, I'll be more than happy to drive to one of the already dilapidated communities for visual aids.
Now if we could just get a grand jury investigation into who the hell it is that keeps approving HUD apartment complexes and grants to El Centro, we'll be cooking with gas!
Posted by: Nick | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 09:54 AM
Its comforting to know that a grand jury has been searching and studying porn since 1989 to know whats worth labeling "obscene" and whats just worthless and UN-obscene.
Has anyone viewed the report yet? Is there a top ten list?
Posted by: Why didn't you think of this sooner? | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 09:55 AM
this is just stoooo-pid!!!! Pathetic!!! thats all i gotta say about it :o)
Posted by: the _lil_apricot_haired_girl | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 10:08 AM
What bothers me most is that the same people who are concerned about the prevalance of pornography are against the only thing that might reduce the demand for smut.
Sex education.
Posted by: Kinsey | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 10:19 AM
Nick,
What was going on with the Priscilla's at 75th and Metcalf? I remember seeing that in the past driving by and you saying that reminded me that I haven't noticed it recently.
By the way I think it's hilarious that a Halloween store got busted for adult costumes...now I wonder if they were just risque ones like a naughty nurse or the sexy vampiress, or one of those unisex costumes of a giant penis?
Posted by: Vandal | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 10:20 AM
f these stupid witch hunts. Its all BS. There is no way the county can win these cases if the stores contest them. Do you think this is Priscilla's first time getting indicted? Its a big fricking waste of taxpayers money. Once again, people who have no chance of getting laid ruin it for the rest.
Posted by: mike d | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 10:22 AM
There was a case in Florda a while back about a comic book creator made some "adult" comics that were only sold in 1 store. The book were kept under the counter so kids couldn't see them and were only sold to adults. An adult police officer bought 1 and they prosecuted both the shop and the creator for promoting obcenity. The creator was convicted and banned from possessing art supplies for 5 years.
My favorite quote from a 1st amendment court case relating to obcentity comes from a judge who said: "I can't tell you exactly what obscenity is, but I know it when I see it."
Posted by: Sasquach | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 10:25 AM
Wow Nick, I didn't realize Priscilla’s were only in dilapidated communities.
Or should only be allowed in dilapidated communities.
Why is this so your neighbors won't see you?
These folks in the Grand Jury are prolly the same ones hanging out at city parks trying to pick up on each other. Since 95% or more of the vehicle tags are from JOCO. Makes a peson wonder what are they teaching you folks over there?
Posted by: JewwellsP | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 10:28 AM
Why is this so your neighbors won't see you?
Posted by: JewwellsP | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 10:28 AM
I was just kidding by the way, beofre you get your feathers all in the air.
Posted by: JewwellsP | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 10:30 AM
This is what happens when you take Jesus out of porn
Posted by: John B | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 10:37 AM
Nick,
What was going on with the Priscilla's at 75th and Metcalf? I remember seeing that in the past driving by and you saying that reminded me that I haven't noticed it recently. - Vandal
That Priscilla's was being run as a front for a drug operation. They finally got wise to it when hundreds of people would go in, but come out empty handed. Then they started getting robbed, but the robbers were leaving the cash bag behind, in plain sight.
They bulldozed it and turned it into a parking lot.
Posted by: Nick | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 10:39 AM
I like it, this is what seperates Johnson County from the trash in Jackson county. That is why cities in Johnson County are on the yearly lists for best places to live.
Posted by: TB | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 10:58 AM
Well I'm so annoyed with this story I called the DA's office to complain about the charges. I mean, when I tell people I'm originally Kansas I already get enough crap about Dorothy and Creationsim. Like I need to be embarrassed about this kind of nutball repressive morality too. Anyway, I'm thinking the poor guy in media relations will be having a liquid lunch today. And he did clarify that Puritan Kline didn't start this (he just better finish it by dismissing the charges, that's all I'm saying.)
Posted by: Beth | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 11:07 AM
I'm gonna go out on a limb here, and assume the people bringing these charges are the same folks that have their monthly scheduled sex, and have never strayed from the oh so routine missionary position. Nice and boring like.
Posted by: onetime | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 11:08 AM
There's a much easier way to keep porn stores out of Johnson County. It's called don't issue business liscenses in the first place. Then you don't have to trump up some crap charges like this to fix a mistake that could have been easy to prevent in the first place. Besides, I think most god fearing hippocrites get their porn from the net these days anyway. If only the same could be done with liquor and drugs...
Posted by: Sasquach | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 11:15 AM
Indictments are handed up. Judgments are handed down. The headline is grammatically incorrect.
Posted by: Grammar police | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 11:15 AM
TB want to explain why Jo-Co has a history of leading the city in wife swapping and swingers parties? Listen white bread, we are all the basically the same and have the same basic desires. Get off your high jo-co horse!
Posted by: unnamed assailant | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 11:19 AM
lol....I've never seen a horse high before.
Posted by: onetime | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 11:21 AM
I bet he'd want some porn though!
Posted by: onetime | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 11:21 AM
I guess Jerry Johnson's wife can't be Elvira for Halloween this year...
Posted by: Dickeylee | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 11:35 AM
OK, now I am mad. One of the counts is for Chrissy the COED cheerleader blowup doll. They need to leave my Chrissy alone!!! :)
Posted by: Jonathan | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 11:42 AM
"I like it, this is what seperates Johnson County from the trash in Jackson county. That is why cities in Johnson County are on the yearly lists for best places to live.
Posted by: TB | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 10:58 AM"
TB, I had to think about this for a moment..and I will not lower myself with a comment as asinine as yours.
Proudly living in the 816.
Posted by: The DB | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 11:45 AM
I guess Jerry Johnson's wife can't be Elvira for Halloween this year...
Posted by: Dickeylee | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 11:35 AM
Now *that* would scare me...
Posted by: The DB | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 11:46 AM
Yeah Spencer's was the shiznit - but i spent most of my money/time @ Caper's Corner.
Posted by: Theoblade | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 11:53 AM
Ironically, they sell wheel chairs out of there now... LOL
Posted by: Theoblade | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 11:53 AM
We took the Family to the Spirit Halloween Store in Lee's Summit. Saw the aforementioned costumes on the racks. My 6 and 8 year olds giggled and laguhed and walked on. Shall I now drag them to therapy for the damage done to their psyche? How much titheing will now assure there spot in heaven? Apparently us bass-ackwards Missourians need some JoCo guidance. Please tell me what I should do...
Posted by: T-Dev | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 11:59 AM
am I wrong or aren't there hundreds of places in KC that rent or sell porno videos. What is weird is how these 3 titles are viewed as obscene. Oh well, Phil Kline hard at work prosecuting crime.
Posted by: The Zipper | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 12:06 PM
What is funny Zipper, prolly most of the sales & rental is done by JOCO residents.
Posted by: JewwellsP | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 12:09 PM
How about blowing your weekly lunch money in 1988 on a bong from Temple Slug?
Posted by: Mike DaMone | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 12:10 PM
My little sister worked at a video store that had an "adult section" on 119th & Switzer in like 1995... Said all our rich married neighbors would come in nonstop and rent, then return the porn in like 2 hours. These cats would sneak home at lunch, jerk it then return the flick before there wife got home.
Posted by: Mike DaMone | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 12:21 PM
There are hundreds of thousands of places that sell porn. They call them "computers".
Let's face it. This is all about the people who have never gotten over the fact that underneath their clothes, people are naked.
Posted by: | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 12:23 PM
sorry, the naked statement is mine (and probably obscene)
Posted by: jack | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 12:24 PM
Next thing you know, they will go after the people who do Passion Parties.
Posted by: Heather | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 12:28 PM
Wow Nick, I didn't realize Priscilla’s were only in dilapidated communities.
Or should only be allowed in dilapidated communities - Jewwells
They are not always Jewwells. That is the problem. Instead of allowing them only in zoned areas they decided to set up shop in residential areas. Where these types of businesses are allowed dilapidation has either already begun, or soon to follow, as the local government is so desperate for money they sacrifice the community, their property values and the health of the community for a few bucks.
The same goes for pawn shops and payday loan scams. Like it or not, you have to admit that these places tend to attract a highly undesirable element, along with those simply lacking in creativity and imagination.
Posted by: Nick | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 12:30 PM
Like some county in Kansas is going to put a dent in my income.
Posted by: Ron Jeremy | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 12:35 PM
Let's see, too many people on welfare who work two jobs, carry high dollar purses and have an average of two cell phones, neighborhoods that have children riding their noisy motorcycles up and down the street with no regard to the neighbors who work full time and are tired and stressed. Neighborhoods where it is ok to have trash, odds and ends in the front and back yards, but have a homes association and dues. Oh yes, let's not forget the porn, if you want to call it that. Just shut down all stores, order by mail and be done with it. Just kidding, this is a stupid way to waste money. The courts and PHil must not have anything to do. Johnson County, keep spending the money, good job.
Posted by: db | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 12:36 PM
who makes the determination that JOCO residents jack it more than other areas of the city and what does this mean? does it indicate something? please analyse these comments....I mean ANAL MACHINE sounds like a pretty good movie
Posted by: The Zipper | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 12:53 PM
I don't know how it's possible that this indictment doesn't violate some sort of Constitutional right. This is ridiculous...if the stores don't have obscene material ON THE OUTSIDE, then any mature adult should be allowed to walk into the store and purchase the adult items they please.
Get over it already conservative America...people have sex...and some use props.
Posted by: Lyndsay | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 01:09 PM
ooooh....no, don't do away with the Passions Parties!!!
Posted by: onetime | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 01:25 PM
FYI, there's a new sex-positive store in the 39th St area, WINK (1415 39th St.). You won't find Crissy there, but you will find classy euro vibes and intelligent books.
Is there any group protesting this action? An organized response would say volumes to the morons trying to force their tired old ethics on everyone else.
Posted by: Katje Sabin | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 01:30 PM
I don't know how it's possible that this indictment doesn't violate some sort of Constitutional right. This is ridiculous. Lyndsay
I don't know how it's possible anyone could think they had a constitutional right to operate in violation of established law and contrary to the business license that they themselves applied for, and agreed to. That is even more ridiculous.
Posted by: Nick | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 01:33 PM
Might have to goto Priscilla's after work and see if they still have the doll. :)
Blame self righteous people who think they can tell us adults what and what we can't use to get off. LOL
Posted by: jeff | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 01:34 PM
set up shop in residential areas. ???Posted by: Nick | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 12:30 PM
75th & Metcalf has no homes, on any corner that I am aware of.
I am more worried by the sec 8 housing & hud apartments. At least the porn shops bring in tax dollars, people do spend THEIR money right?
Not my money I care less what they buy.
No 500 square foot porn shop, but how many 10,000 square foot liquor stores does JOCO need?
Posted by: JewwellsP | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 01:35 PM
Nick;
I'm questioning the power of the county to create the law in the first place; not whether the the business owners had the right to violate it once it was established.
Posted by: Lyndsay | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 01:39 PM
I think JoCo DA Kline would prefer we entertain ourselves like this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TO4LxfobDlM.
It's safe for work, unless your boss hates Disney, but you might want a couple of drinks to get the song out of your head afterwards.
Posted by: bbgunn | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 01:45 PM
Better yet the commonly known as a Butt plug would make for good times lol
Posted by: jeff | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 01:46 PM
43rd and Rainbow in KCK? House values have gone up 4 to 5 times old valuations since the Priscilla's opened there.
Of course have KU Med down the street and everyone buying everything around it. Deceased wife's parents live in a house worth maybe $25K, recently valued at $135K because of location. They are 2 blocks from Priscilla's.
So being in areas going down is not necessarily true.
Posted by: The_Golfer | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 01:46 PM
75th & Metcalf has no homes, on any corner that I am aware of.- Jewwells
Actually Priscilla's was at 75th & Floyd a residential street with residential areas immediately to the north, and west of where it stood.
You are correct in that the HUD housing is a problem, but when you combine attractants such as porn shops, pawn shops, payday loans. Then mix them with section 8 housing, El Centro, and other slum lords, the end result is always the same. The death of a livable community and flight from it. The only way to protect your tax base is to maintain high standards. We've all seen way too often what happens when you don't. KCK anyone?
Posted by: Nick | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 01:58 PM
I'm questioning the power of the county to create the law in the first place; not whether the the business owners had the right to violate it once it was established. - Lyndsay
Well, that is another fight Lyndsay, but I don't think you will ever find a lot of support in disallowing community standards. You'd never have a shot at telling the state they can't regulate something. As for porn, there are so many alternative sources for it, they would never have any hope of truly regulating it, so it's a win - win situation. Just don't set up shop in a residential area.
Posted by: Nick | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 02:05 PM
Golfer, the houses in that area really are valued like that?????? I don't recall seeing anything there I would pay more than 50K for, at most.
Posted by: onetime | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 02:19 PM
Let's all buy one of the Halloween costumes and go trick-or-treating at Phil's house!
Posted by: John | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 02:42 PM
Nick - there are houses on the other side of Metcalf by Sheridan's if I recall...
Posted by: labbadabba | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 02:47 PM
This is about drawing a line somewhere, and starting to enforce limits. We all know there is access to porn, but the point is, Johnson County now has a grand jury to call out violations of community standards, one of which being, that businesses don't get to put obscenity out for public viewing, particularly where minors might be subjected to it.
Obscenity is not protected speech. It has been polluting our community's public spaces enough already.
Posted by: parkay | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 02:50 PM
Nick - there are houses on the other side of Metcalf by Sheridan's if I recall... Lab
You are correct, but since Jewwells was attempting to make his point by limiting the affected area to the 4 corners of 75th and Metcalf, I simply used the residents within rock throwing distance to counter.
There are residential areas in every direction within 2 blocks of the location except for due south.
Not necessarily an inappropriate location for a lingerie shop, but certainly not appropriate for one branching out to porn and drugs.
Posted by: Nick | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 03:08 PM
onetime - Yes, they showed me their valuations over the past few years and I agree, most I would pay for any would be $35k to $40K.
Posted by: The_Golfer | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 03:37 PM
The licenses normally says that if they keep the part truly considerate porn as last than like 25% of the store, then they are legal.
Can't wait for this to get to court. If a consenting adult bought/rented it, county does not have a leg to stand on.
Posted by: The_Golfer | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 03:39 PM
OP meeeting notes-Mr. Janson asked what the difference was between the requirements placed on Priscilla’s as opposed to requiring the payday loan companies to have a business license. Mr. Peterson stated the distinction is that the nature of the adult business is a business that is easier to distinguish in a negative way from a payday loan business.
Mr. Skoog asked if there were any available studies that reflect what happens when too many of these types of businesses are located together. Mr. Peterson stated that staff has found no such studies.
Mr. White felt exchanging a car title for money was not a typical loan. He requested that staff investigate ways they can expand the license to include payday loan companies under the same definition as a pawn shop.
Posted by: JewwellsP | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 03:54 PM
just a few more remarks-
National Coalition for the Protection of Children and Families spearheaded the petition drive.
Lt. Mark Misenhelter of the Liberty Police Department said he was unaware of any petition drive. He said the Priscilla's at 916 Missouri Highway 291 had not been the source of complaints or problems.
Sgt. Richard King of Gladstone's public safety department said Priscilla's in the city had not been a problem.
“They've caused no problems whatsoever,” King said. “They've been a very quiet business in Gladstone
You Anti Porn folks should just STFU already is what I think.
Get back in the closet where you belong. We happy American's don't need or want your help in life!
It is well known fact, the Anti Porn folks are the very worst sexual deviant's around.
Next thing on the agenda, Burka's for the women.
Posted by: JewwellsP | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 04:01 PM
well, this is a dead horse at 85+ comments but i'll post anyway... you crazy conservatives leave to need the silent majority alone with our porn and dildos. we like them- deal with it.
Posted by: jampoo | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 04:05 PM
Mr. Skoog asked if there were any available studies that reflect what happens when too many of these types of businesses are located together. Mr. Peterson stated that staff has found no such studies.- Quote
Mr Peterson should advise his staff to consult The United States Army. They have extensive information as to the detrimental effects of payday loansharking operations. Perhaps contact the cities of Fayetteville and Silver Lake N.C. where they have shut them down and turned their cities into livable places.
Hopefully he is already aware that this payday loan company paid every single state representative a healthy campaign contribution in order to allow them to infest at will. Best of Luck.
Posted by: Nick | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 04:08 PM
...Kansas makes me laugh soooo much...
...next it will be women aren't allowed to work...or some other tard crap...
...or maybe, no TV in all of JoCo...
...you don't need to pay for porn btw, plenty of good freee sites out there...
like, such as, the South Africa...oh wait, lost my train of thought...
...there's one that starts with bizz, or rhymes with it...or something, followed by archives...
...we'll see how many super sleuths we have :)...
...in summation...LOL@JoCo...
...please keep entertaining me...
...and by the way TB, I'm going to sit over here in Jackson County in my half a million dollar home, enjoying the fruits of my well-educated labor as well, but I'll have something else you won't...
...porn...
...your loss...
Posted by: 3 dot guy... | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 04:12 PM
The National Coaliiton for the Extreme and Unecessary Sheltering of Children and Causing of Sexual Rebellion in College Resulting in Low Self-Esteem and Social Awkwardness did this...
...figures...
Posted by: 3 dot guy... | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 04:14 PM
and by the way TB, I'm going to sit over here in Jackson County in my half a million dollar home, enjoying the fruits of my well-educated labor as well, but I'll have something else you won't...
...porn...
LOL! If you had a half million dollar house and a porn shop across the street, you either:
A) Own the Porn Shop ... or
B) are the keeper of the torch. ;-)
Posted by: Nick | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 04:21 PM
Geez, I just moved here from the Chicago area, and this just blows me away. I've never heard of government controls and regulations like this before; this is utterly ridiculous.
Posted by: anonymousposter | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 04:24 PM
Geez, I just moved here from the Chicago area, and this just blows me away. - anonymous poster
Yep, we just sit back and learn from the mistakes of the larger urban cesspools and do the opposite. Prevents decay better than Crest with Fluoride.
Posted by: Nick | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 04:30 PM
Nah all my porn comes from Adam & Eve, but I wouldn't care if I did have a classy porn and sex toy place near by...everyone has sex...it should be something celebrated.
...this was the best...
"accused of selling a series of sex toys, including a dildo"
...a dildo...ZOMG...they were selling dildos!!!!...someone call the authorities...we have murderers out there to find but please, PLEASE arrest these dildo selling normal people!!!
Posted by: 3 dot guy... | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 04:34 PM
Yeah, I can't for the life of me figure out what is "obscene" about a dildo.
Posted by: anonymousposter | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 04:37 PM
LOL - because having a "significant storyline or plot" is a key thing people look for when buying porn movies, right?
Posted by: Amy | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 04:37 PM
...I kinda look at people who take this overly zealotous stance against porn as...well, fairly childlike in their ability to comprehend and apply logical thinking.
Whenever I hear some moron spouting off about porn destroying families, I always say,
"No son/little girl, its bad and corrupt people who destroy families. People make their own choices. Porn, or as you call it, naughty movies, don't do anything but placate a very simple human desire. If anyone takes anything else away from that which causes their family trouble, well dear, they're idiots, and its really best to just ignore them and let them rot in their own little mess of stupidity rather than try to pass stupid and ineffective laws that really just make our area look like a bunch of morons. If you have candid conversation with most people, you'll find their issue is not with the porn, but the ID-TEN-T's I mentioned before that come along with it, but you'll find every activity has those outliers who just can't seem to handle it."
Posted by: 3 dot guy... | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 04:41 PM
LOL - because having a "significant storyline or plot" is a key thing people look for when buying porn movies, right?
Personally, its boobs...and long hair...and I hate ones with overly skinny girls...please eat a pie sweetheart...
Posted by: 3 dot guy... | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 04:42 PM
Nick there is not a porn place in OP near a half million dollar home either.
If there is please tell me where.
Posted by: JewwellsP | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 04:42 PM
I volunteer for Grand Jury duty!
Posted by: Susie | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 05:01 PM
Totally pathetic. Is this what the Republicans want for Johnson County? Why?
Posted by: Thomas Kirby | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 05:23 PM
Sasquatch: I'll bet you're talking about Mike Diana and his Boiled Angel comics. That judge is just plain nuts.
Posted by: Thomas Kirby | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 05:28 PM
Nick there is not a porn place in OP near a half million dollar home either - Jewwells
Actually there is not a porn place in OP period, that I am aware of. Just other businesses that decided to expand the scope of their licensing, without bothering with the inconvenience of doing so legally. (Bribe the city council and don't put it up next to the old presidents burger king.)
As far as half million dollar homes though, after the Priscilla's at 75th got closed, I don't think so. I could be wrong though, because a half million dollar home in this area isn't anything special. You can get three times the home for the same money in WYCO if you're willing to accept the blight, the crime, the lousy schools, the possibility of having your property snatched and re-sold, and the overall more corrupt local government.
Posted by: Nick | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 05:30 PM
Totally pathetic. Is this what the Republicans want for Johnson County? Why?
Come on Thomas. Seriously now. We even have communities here that do not allow so much as a Quick Trip or a Walmart. Do you really think there is going to be overwhelming support for a porn shop?
Posted by: Nick | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 05:36 PM
Nick, I don't see overwhelming support for human rights or sanity, either.
Posted by: Thomas Kirby | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 05:39 PM
Please, do tell. How does human rights even enter into community standards or property valuations? .... Never mind...by use of the exact same logic that dictates a pair of ladies panties over the head amounts to torture. Whatever fits at that particular moment.
Posted by: Nick | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 05:43 PM
WOW you mean people are going to attempt to force their morality on others. What a surprise. Overland Park must not have any homosexuals either like Iran.
Posted by: Your_Rights_End_Where_They_Step_On_Mine | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 06:25 PM
Johnson County today, only because Phillll is so friendly with the "Moral Majority". The group that started this has also asked for grand juries in other local counties. We'll soon see if other D.A.s see this as worth investigating. This group is going to hound each office until they do take action.
http://www.metrovoicenews.com/news.shtml
Porn petitions served
Over 100 pastors join effort to rid metro of pornography
Metro Voice
Thursday, May 17, more than 100 pastors and Kansas City Metro area supporters of the National Coalition for the Protection of Children and Families gathered at the Salvation Army Headquarters in downtown Kansas City, Mo.
“I want to thank you so much for your prayers and participation. Pray that the six Kansas City metro prosecutors will follow through with their part of this strategy. Pray they use this window of opportunity to sound the alarm on the dangers of obscenity and pornography within the church and in the culture in general,” said Phillip Cosby, the Kansas City regional executive director of the organization.
The strategy that Cosby spoke of was the grand jury petitions calling for the investigations into 32 metro businesses for the crime of promotion of obscenity. The businesses targeted are adult bookstores, adult video stores, and strip clubs in Wyandotte and Johnson County in Kansas, and Platte, Clay, Cass, and Jackson Counties in Missouri.
“Our goal is to change the community’s lack of knowledge or indifference into active participation in the legal process and to confront the predatory and addictive nature of the pornography industry, especially with the exacerbation of advanced wireless technologies. And we did it. In Jesus name, this is as far as they’re coming!” Cosby exclaimed at the close of the meeting.
The group dispersed into six separate groups, and then delivered the petitions to the respective prosecuting attorneys’ offices.
The coalition joined forces with more than 134 area fellowships and exceeded the required number of signatures designated by the population of each county, to place the Kansas and Missouri obscenity law question before a grand jury.
“Watch. Now that the county sheriffs and prosecutors have the ball, we all need to watch carefully their activity (or non-activity). As things unfold, we will begin to support their efforts or provoke them to good works based on their response to your recent petitions. In Missouri this is critical since Missouri citizens are not guaranteed a grand jury like the Kansas citizens. In Missouri, it is up to the elected sheriff and prosecutor whether or not to proceed at any level in enforcing the state laws against obscenity. Watch them; be respectful but firm in your resolve when calling,” said Cosby.
He continued and advised citizens to open doors. What was accomplished in filing grand jury petitions was the first shot. We must continue to examine ourselves and educate our fellowships, schools, and organizations as to why this battle for individual sexual purity and a corresponding “community standard” trial is important.
“I am dependent on your willingness to open doors of opportunity for me to speak. There is much more to say and do. We have only begun to scratch the surface. Pray for me that doors of opportunity open, and that we not shrink back from this strike against the pornography industry and its devastating effects,” said Cosby.
Posted by: Pat | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 06:41 PM
It's pretty scary that they even think of this as an "accomplishment." I've seen better accomplishments in a litter box.
Posted by: Thomas Kirby | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 06:53 PM
Because having a "significant storyline or plot" is a key thing people look for when buying porn movies, right?
Exactly. Let's see now... it's an action movie, so let's start with, "Let me plot you down right here...". There you go.
Posted by: Pat | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 07:03 PM
Prosecutors, ministers, and others who were never comfortable with the 20th century now try to cope with the 21st century and fail.
Posted by: Thomas Kirby | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 07:09 PM
I've seen better accomplishments in a litter box. - Thomas
This goes to the heart of the problem Thomas. You're hanging out in all the wrong places. ;-)
Posted by: Nick | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 07:24 PM
It's pretty scary that they even think of this as an "accomplishment." I've seen better accomplishments in a litter box. - Thomas
Now, Thomas, let's leave those innocent pussies out of this!
Posted by: anonymousposter | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 07:55 PM
The reason you can't find Phill is that he is down in the evidence room, jerking off...which is what his dad SHOULD have done.
Posted by: STARVE THE ARTISTS | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 08:36 PM
Okay, I'm showing my age here, but does anybody remember Richards Gebaur Air Base in Belton?
Back in the '70s and early '80s there was a street named "Bong Avenue." I think they finally changed the name because the street sign kept getting stolen.
I wonder what this guy in JOCO would do about a street name he finds offensive. He couldn't really punish all of us who took turns stealing the street sign. Some developer ought to create a street in a new subdivision with a semi-pornographical name and take bets on how long it is before the county prosecutor sues them to change the name of the street.
Place your ideas here to name a new street in Southern Johnson County.
"Pussy Willow Terrace"
"Woodpecker Lane"
Posted by: D | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 09:19 PM
I know where this guy lives anyone want to go tell him that he offends me with his religious platform. I have not seen a case where any child was ever enticed, invited, or dragged into priscillas. this is a witch hunt by some right wing jackass.
Posted by: farty mcstinkypants | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 11:34 PM
I'm going to go online and buy a crucifix dildo and mail it to him. it'll probably come back stained brown and have teeth marks in it, and he'll call for them to be outlawed. he's like that Sen Craig guy from Idaho.
Posted by: farty mcstinkypants | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 11:38 PM
I know where this guy lives anyone want to go tell him that he offends me with his religious platform. I have not seen a case where any child was ever enticed, invited, or dragged into priscillas. this is a witch hunt by some right wing jackass.
Posted by: farty mcstinkypants | Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 11:41 PM
ever drive by erotic city near 435 and Truman? I work near there and believe me, 2/3 of the cars parked there (not kidding) have Kansas plates on them. And most of the people there are not there to watch videos of straight sex, it is a know spot for gay men to "hook up". (but kansas does not allow gay people to live in Kansas, right?)
Sorry, if you are offended by the human body or the way that it is used, walk away. I can wipe my own butt, blow my own nose, I do not need some high and mighty know it all to tell me what I can and can not enjoy. Don't want kids to see it, don't take them there. Plain and simple. Get your fingers off of my #(*&(*(*$ and I will take care of it myself!
Posted by: sc | Thursday, September 27, 2007 at 06:57 AM
oh yea, By the way...
does anyone think it is better to run around and have sex with any "joe blow" (no pun intended) that someone happens to run into or...a safe evening at home with a video, a toy and the lights off. Who knows how many STD's have been contained thanks to those great sex stores. Can't get pregnant from a piece of plastic with a battery, and it does not get up in the morning and run back home to its wife in JOCO, haha
Sorry, I could not resist.
Posted by: sc | Thursday, September 27, 2007 at 07:08 AM
Good job Phill! This investigation has been going on since July 16 so we have already wasted over 2 months studying what DVDs people are watching in their bedrooms and the lingerie being bought. How much more time to study if this goes to court and then how much time and money to prosecute this "crime".
In the meantime, I hope you're keeping up with the Kelsey Smith case. Remember her? We do have some real crime in Johnson County. I would hate to see a murderer walk because you and your staff were out trying on underwear and watching dirty movies.
All sarcasm aside, this is a colossal misuse of time, money and other resources in the D.A.'s office. The blame is not just Phill Kline. He's not running for another term.
To stop this from happening again, every Republican Precinct Committee Member that voted to appoint Phill into office needs to be identified and a moderate Republican needs to run to replace them next year. In many cases, the conservatives are running unopposed. Look at the roster in Johnson County and how many Chairmen and Chairwomen representing a district are husband and wife. A full house cleaning is needed in the Republican Party to regain control from the religious zealots.
Posted by: Pat | Thursday, September 27, 2007 at 07:31 AM
Pat
That is a great idea but do you really think that the average voter in JOCO even is smart enough to know who is in office and who isn't. As far as the religious zealots go, it seems to me that is what they want. By having these crazy B@$t@rds representing them and supporting them, must make them think that they might have a chance to get to their "promised land".
Posted by: stiffy | Thursday, September 27, 2007 at 08:23 AM