CN Today: Judge issues stinging criticism of USADA...Laura Weislo
http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/judge-issues-stinging-criticism-of-usada-in-armstrong-case
"....In the opinion, Sparks takes USADA to task, stating, "there are troubling aspects of this case, not least of which is USADA's apparent single-minded determination to force Armstrong to arbitrate the charges against him, in direct conflict with UCI's equally evident desire not to proceed against him."
In another note, Sparks writes, "Among the Court's concerns is the fact that USADA has targeted Armstrong for prosecution many years after his alleged doping violations occurred, and intends to consolidate his case with those of several other alleged offenders, including - incredibly - several over whom USA Cycling and USOC apparently have no authority whatsoever. Further, if Armstrong's allegations are true, and
USADA is promising lesser sanctions against other allegedly offending riders in exchange for their testimony against Armstrong, it is difficult to avoid the conclusion that USADA is motivated more by politics and a desire for media attention than faithful adherence to its obligations to USOC."
This article left me bemused on two fronts. As Hog post 8557 earlier referred Laura makes some comment...but there is so much more she could have added...So for that matter so could Sparks, J.
Laura could have mentioned UCI's about face to put apparent UCI USADA confict in context. That two parties are not in agreement does not indicate that both sides have equally valid contentions.
Equally Sparks, J could have been more even handed in raising this issue.
That Sparks, J points to delay in pursuit is understandable. However this circumstance also points to the difficulty in obtaining evidence and the degree to which this evidence may have been deliberately concealed from detection.
Most bewildering of all, though, is Sparks', J concern with "...USADA is promising lesser sanctions against other allegedly offending riders in exchange for their testimony against Armstrong".
WTF!
1. Again this surely points to the difficulty obtaining evidence in this matter
2.a I understood/understand that US common legal practice (USclp) is to offer a plea bargain for admission of guilt and that USADA/WADA code specifically allows same
2.b furthermore...USclp and USADA/WADA allow for reduced sanctions in "exchange" for truthful evidence that facilitates either prevention and/or prosecution of sanctionable activities.
As to why Laura did not add further commentary ...Who canna know!