Religious Speed Racer

Some folks will go to great lengths to contest a speeding ticket, but this is the first time we've heard someone claim a speeding ticket was a violation of religious freedom.

Yet that's exactly what Jeffrey L. Manke of Oshkosh, Wisc, did. Manke was was ticketed for driving 71 mph in a 55 mph zone in October 2011. He argued that Wisconsin's speeding statutes were unconstitutional as they violated his religious freedom because they prohibit a person from speeding. Manke claimed in court that his understanding of the Bible indicates he's a man, not a person.

The state court of appeals didn't buy his argument and cut through Manke's semantics.

"Manke does not explain how or why being a 'person' for purposes of the speeding statute is a burden upon his religious beliefs," the court wrote.

"We accept Manke’s argument that he is a man. We also accept that, as a man, he is a 'person' under WIS. STAT. § 346.57(4)(h)."

Manke is this week's honorary jackass.  I'm glad to see his bitch slap back to reality delivered with humor and a firm denial.