Iudicium Digestae, Codex I
I Aglaia 219/Conqueror/6 L. Sulla
Larson
II Morgyn 220/Lucifal/5 T. Noraetis
Wehttam
III Metharus 222/Jemros/1 T. Noraetis
IV Mendus 223 M. Antonius
V Baelfel 224/Lucifal/32 E. Naevia
VI Rindak 226/Morning/6 E. Naevia
VII Semptat 226/Aera/31 E. Naevia
VIII Tracer 227/Morning/1 E. Naevia
IX Lhundal 228/Ereal/20 M. Auila
X Metharus 228/Allinius/12 T. Noraetis
XI Antius 229/Ereal/22 P. Priaxios
XII Metharus 229 T. Gordia
XIII Krystlus 229/Area/16 T. Gordia
XIV Isle 229/Aera/24 T. Gordia
I-XIV in Abbreviatum
Aglaia
Date: 6th day of the Festival of the Conqueror, 219th Year of the Republic
Seated: Lucius Sulla
Accused: Aglaia
Accuser: Thoras, on behalf of Legio I
Brief Summary: Foreigner charged with treason and sentenced to an additional month in prison and twenty-five lashings upon release.
Detailed Summary:
On the 6th day of the Festival of the Conqueror, in the 219th Year of the Republic, the gallery of the Forum Courthouse was filled for the trial of Aglaia's for the charge of treason. Justice Lucius Sulla presided over the case.
To begin the trial, a number of Legio soldiers, mainly Thoras, testified against her, claiming she had confessed to being a member of the Cineran Liberation Army.
Various citizens and constables stood up in her defense, including her brother, a constable named Juggalos, and her main counsel, Narius.
After hearing the statements, Justice Sulla deliberated on the case. He came to the decision that her actions were "phenomenally stupid", but concluded "being phenomenally stupid wasn't cause for beheading."
Nonetheless, her actions did not go unpunished. She was sentenced to no less then another month in prison, and twenty-five strokes of the lash to carried out upon her release.
Larson, Morgyn, Wehttam
Date: 5th day of Lucifal, 220th Year of the Republic
Seated: Talius Noraetis
Accused: Larson, Morgyn, Whettam
Accuser: Cladius, on behalf of the Iridine Constables
Brief Summary: Three conspirators charged with multiple murders of patricians. Larson and Morgyn sentenced to execution with Whettam being reprieved to lifetime enslavement with the compensation of all his possessions being sold to profit the victims of the crimes.
Detailed Summary:
On the 5th day of Lucifal in the 220th Year of the Republic, three men were tried for the murders of five patricians. The accusers, constable Cladius and Legate Granius of the Station I constabulary proved that without a doubt Larson, Morgyn, and Wehttam were guilty of the murders.
Justice Talius Noraetis sentenced Larson and Morgyn to execution by hanging, but ordered a lesser sentence on Whettam for his cooperation with authorities and smaller role in the murders. Wehttam sentenced to slavery and sold to Retalq Blade and was ordered all his possessions sold with the proceeds to be given to the families of the deceased.
Metharus
Date: 1st day of Jemros, 222nd Year of the Republic
Seated: Talius Noraetis
Accused: Metharus Ther'ais
Accuser: Banic, on behalf of the Iridine Contables
Brief Summary: Citizenship of victim could not be proved and accused was charged with murder of a foreigner and fined five talents and sentenced to five public lashings.
Detailed Summary:
On the evening of the 1st day of Jemros, in the 222nd Year of the Republic, Metharus Ther'ais was brought to trial at the Harbor District Courthouse on the charge of the murder of Cassy, which took place on the 27th day of Aera.
Constable Banic Ashe stood as the accuser, Cyrillicus was the representation for the accused, and Justice Talius Noraetis presided over the trial.
The first witness was called by the Justice himself, a man named Tondrin Supules. Tondrin testified that the victim in this crime had once told him that her family lived in either Cinera or the Safelands, not Iridine. And she called that place home. This brings into doubt her dying claim that she was a citizen.
On Cyrillicus' opening statement, he claimed that Metharus had not actually murdered her, Silvanos had cast the final blow. But in his statements, he made sure to mention that Cassy had claimed Cineran superiority over Metharus' Altene homeland. Once again, making it appear Cassy is a non-citizen. He also tried to point out Metharus' good character, with his working for the patrician Petitius Didyma.
Banic's first witness was Constable Sergeant Lorican Farnarm. After a slight problem with communication, Banic proceeded to question the witness. Lorican stated that prior to Metharus' arrest, he had often seen him about the city with lowlifes, including branded thieves. He also stated that just before the accused was escorted from the prison to the courthouse for his trial, he had said something along the lines of "she wouldn't be dead if the others didn't jump in." Lorican later said he had assumed that Cassy was killed from the number of blows, not a single blow aimed to kill, as it was not mentioned when he was at the scene.
On Cyrillicus' counter, he tried to discredit the witness because Lorican was not there until after the crime had been committed. He also tried to discredit the mention of Metharus' association with a branded thief, because he'd seen that same man hunting with constables before.
Banic's next witness was Constable Sergeant Shara Rodus. She testified that a few days before in the jail cell, Metharus had told her, "Well you aren't the person whose ass I have to kiss in order to get out of here. I don't need a lecture from you about my attitude. I know how to act when. When my life is at stake." This draws anything he says in the court into serious question, as he could just be acting 'when his life is at stake'.
The Accuser's final witness was Calgar Marmeous, current first general of the legions of the Sacred Circle. Calgar testified that prior to Metharus' arrest for Cassy's murder, Metharus had plotted to kill him. He said that Metharus is two faced and, "Just because he kisses the arse of Sir Didyma does not mean he's a good guy."
Cyrillicus' first witness was Metharus himself. He told about what happened in the attack on Cassy. He then said Shara lied when she testified. He also claimed Calgar's words were off-base and untrue, it didn't happen like he said. He explained his version of the incident.
Cyrillicus then called Kered Solace, second lieutenant of the legions of the Sacred Circle, who was present in the incident mentioned by Calgar. Kered confirmed the incident, but didn't really change anything but that it was all a misunderstanding.
He then called Calgar back to the stand. He tried once again to discredit Calgar's earlier testimony, by pointing out the mutual dislike between the two.
In their final statements, the accused both reiterated what they'd said before. Banic mentioned his low friends, and words to a respected constable, and Cyrillicus tried to cast doubt on anything that had happened.
After a ten minute break for deliberation, Justice Talius Noraetis came with the verdict: Guilty. But he would not face the full penalty for murder. His punishment was given as time served, plus one additional month, a five talent fine and five public lashes, which were carried out immediately.
Mendus
Date: 223rd Year of the Republic
Seated: Maravius Antonius
Accused: Mendus Isme
Accuser: Govan, on behalf of the Iridine Constables
Brief Summary: Accused as a conspirator in the murder of a Humilore, fined thirty talents to be paid to the victim's family and sentenced to a public lashing.
Detailed Summary:
Justice Maravius Antonius announced his desire to complete the cases of accused Mendus Isme, Tantwistel Velyn, and Duyere Hershal. Mendus Isme was the first of these cases to appear before Justice Antonius at the Harbor Courthouse. Mendus Isme was accused of murdering a humilore.
Govan worked as the council for the accuser and Tobius acted as the council for the accused.
After a short delay, the court was brought to order and both councils thanked the Justice for hearing the case. After both lawyers made initial statements, Govan presented signed depositions by the two arresting constables stating the case against the accused Mendus Isme. Mendus was arrested for the crime of murdering a fisherman. He was assisted in the deed by Clubie, who was said to be deceased. Other than the written statements, Govan did not present any other witnesses.
Tobius brought in a character witness to sway the Justice of Mendus' good name. The character witness spoke well of the accused and said he did not believe that Mendus Isme could have killed the fisherman. After this statement of character, Mendus Isme, himself, was questioned. Immediately, Mendus admitted to being corrupted by Clubie for the purpose of attacking the fisherman. Mendus admitted to attacking the fisherman with Clubie but did not admit to the crime of murder. Both councils gave their final statements after Mendus' testimony. Justice Antonius dismissed the court and deliberated his ruling. Upon his return, Justice Maravius Antonius fined Mendus Isme thirty talents to be given to the victim's family for restitution. Justice Antonius also ordered Mendus to be lashed.
Incredibly, the accused Mendus Isme was either not bound by rope in court or found a way to cut the bindings. Finding himself short on restitution money and perhaps in an attempt to avoid being sold into slavery and flogged, Mendus quickly disappeared from the Harbor Courthouse. Despite the appeals for his return by the Justice and the searching by the constables, the accused Mendus Isme disappeared into the night. Luckily, after a few hours of being at large, Mendus was rearrested attempting to enter Seneda's Bank.
Baelfel
Date: 32nd day of Lucifal, 224th Year of the Republic
Seated: Eione Naevia
Accused: Baelfel Somnova
Accuser: Cyrillicus, on behalf of the Iridine Constables
Brief Summary: Accused of one count of murder of a Humilore named Thomas, sentenced to four extra months of imprisonment, fined ten talents and continued compensation for ten years to be paid to the victim's family.
Detailed Summary:
At the end of the month of Lucifal, Year 224 of the Republic, Assistant Justice Eione Naevia brought the case of Baelfel Somnova to trial at the Harbor Courthouse. Baelfel was tried for one count of murder of a Humilore for the murder of a man named Thomas. He was warranted and arrested in the city of Monlon for murdering the victim after a bout of drinking. Cyrillicus was appointed as the counsel for the accuser; Nomad acted as counsel for the accused. Both Cyrillicus and Nomad were recognized as registered lawyers for the courts.
Before the trial began, witnesses called by opposing counsels began to arrive. They included the warranting constable, a friend of the victim and the grief stricken widow with her well behaved four children. Throughout the trial, the widow would softly cry and weep. Also, several Lawyers, constables, friends of the accused, and the Legate - Leonora Iullia - attended the trial. Whispers between those in the gallery could be heard throughout the trial itself.
With the arrival of the two counsels, the trial began, even without the presence of the accused himself. Baelfel arrived under guard amidst the trial in time for the verdict.
After the opening statements by the two counsels, Cyrillicus called and questioned the warranting constable Lucian; Pinter, a friend of the victim; and gently asked the sorrowful widow one or two soft questions. From the testimony, the court learned that Lucian was off duty in Monlon with a few associates when he heard a cry for help. The constable, a very dutiful man, investigated and saw the victim lying on the ground with another man wielding a bloodied instrument. After failing to capture the fleeing murderer, the constable was able to obtain a warrant on the attacker. Henceforth, Baelfel was arrested by a Monlon Vigile while trying to board the Vetallun to Monlon Ferry. Pinter was able to certify the account of the constable.
Nomad, the lawyer for the accused, questioned Pinter as to the sober state of the deceased. He offered a signed statement by a person named Vixelic who claimed seeing the victim drinking the night of the murder. Also, Nomad heavily cross-examined the involved constable, with emphasis on his eyesight. The constable admitted poor eyesight but not at the time of the incident brought to this trial.
It was then that the key moment in the trial occurred. The Justice wanted to make sure that the constable who warranted Baelfel for the murder could recognize him. After a bit of squinting and looking around, the constable eventually identified Baelfel as the attacker, solving all doubt.
As a final witness for the accused, Nomad called Kered of the Traevant Militia to speak on behalf his trooper, Baelfel. Kered spoke of the good job Baelfel had done while under his charge.
After the final statements and a brief recess, the Justice found Baelfel guilty of the charge of murdering a Humilore. He was to remain in prison for an additional four Iridine months. He was fined an immediate ten talents to the widow of the victim and additional compensation for the next ten years.
The verdict brought a cry of "Oh Ereal, justice for my husband!" from the grieving widow. More than one person commented on the lightness of the verdict that, "this will not detour anyone else from doing the same crime." In response, a dignitary indicated, "Perhaps the Justice wished the defendant to live so that he would be allowed to provide for the family he mistreated."
Rindak
Date: 6th day of The Festival of the Morning, 226th Year of the Republic
Seated: Eione Naevia
Accused: Rindak Falius
Accuser: Cyrillicus and Sapphira, on behalf of the Iridine Constables
Brief Summary: Repeat offender accused of multiple counts of Disturbing the Peace, Treason, assault, and murder. Sentenced to execution in the Colosseum.
Detailed Summary:
On the night of the 6th day of The Festival of the Morning in the 226th Year of the Republic, Assistant Justice Eione Naevia, once again, held court at the Harbor Courthouse and presided over the trial of Rindak Falius.
Rindak Falius was accused of two counts of Disturbing the Peace, two counts of Treason, two counts of assault on a Patrician, two counts of Murder and one count of minor assault.
After it was proved impossible for the accused to be removed from his jail cell to face his crimes, the trial began in his absence.
Accusing Rindak was a lawyer team of Sapphira and Cyrillicus and defending the accused was Phytias.
In the opening statements, Sapphira called for the most severe punishment for Rindak for his committed crimes and Phytias called for Rindak to be judged for only the crimes he actually committed.
After the initial statements, Sapphira began by producing two written statements. One statement was from legio soldier Caucus and another from an assaulted patrician. Further, Sapphira produced a sack containing what she indicated were human parts (a head and hand) from a victim of Rindak's supposed rampage. One of the victims is believed to have been a child in Vetallun. She then began calling and questioning an extremely long list of witnesses who laboriously documented the savage personality of the accused and the charges against him.
Afterward, in response to the calling of an overwhelming amount of witnesses against the accused, Phytias called only two persons to clarify the evidence and testimony.
Then, while testifying on Rindak's behalf, Phytias rebutted by arguing that most of the crimes committed were not seen or personally witnessed. He also strongly stated the accused had a history of violent activity - denoting insanity. Also, Phytias mentioned that most of the evidence of the crimes came from the accused himself. This is a man who is proven lost and unstable of mind. Furthermore, besides the charges of Disturbing the Peace and the assault on a patrician, Phytias argued the other charges could not be proven.
After a short reviewing of the facts, Justice Naevia declared Rindak Falius guilty and ordered him to be executed. But the means thereof were not made clear.
Witnesses to the long trial flatly agreed and stated the simple truth, "It's such an easy trial. Since we know the man must be killed for public safety."
Late in Aera in the Year 227th, while being taken to the Colosseum for public execution, Rindak escaped by chance. It is known he inhabits the bandit forest area and the Vale. Travelers between Vetallun and the Phoenix Guard are to be careful of their movements and be ever watchful. Since his escape, he has attacked several persons.
He has successfully used escaped gladiators, rogues and bandits to his advantage and has successfully attacked and looted a few Legio soldiers, Sabbath and Saben among them, capturing their proud emblems. After residing in the Traevant Forest and swamps for several months, Rindak was eventually brought down by the efforts of the Legio. In a duel between men, Pasquali fought Rindak to a literal standoff which both were seriously wounded and exhausted. Pasquali fell first but Rindak was seriously shedding blood from the soldier's wounds. It is said that Rindak fled to the swamps in an attempt to recover but later succumbed to his wounds. Today the rotting corpse of Rindak is impaled along side Couver near the Legio Vetullan Fort.
Semptat
Date: 31st day of Aera, 226th Year of the Republic
Seated: Eione Naevia
Accused: Semptat
Accuser: Iridine Constables
Brief Summary: The accused was released after a sentence which commuted his crimes to time already served in prison.
Detailed Summary:
On the evening of the 31st day of Aera in the 226th Year of the Republic, the trial of Semptat was held in the Harbor Courthouse.
Early confusion transpired when the counsel for Semptat did not arrive. The accused was publicly offered the choice of trial delay, another counsel or defending himself without counsel. Given the choices and the prospect of another trial delay, the accused became slightly upset and rude to those present.
Not wanting a public spectacle of the affair, the Justice, followed by the trial participants, went into closed quarters behind the courtroom for a discussion on the matter.
After what appeared to be an exceptionally long private affair, the accusing counsel came out of the courtroom. He proceeded to tell those in the gallery the circumstances of the situation. He told those in the present that the accused Semptat was to be set free. Many eyebrows were raised by the declaration.
Shortly after, Justice Eione Naevia came out and made the following simple statement of the decision, "It has been brought to my attention that the charges leveled against the criminal have already been served. I see no need for a trial."
This statement brought a tad bit of confusion upon the listeners, but without more information the crowd slowly sobered their thoughts.
When the accused himself came out of the courtroom, he was greeted with a chorus of "HUR's" by his closest supporters.
Justice Naevia ordered the accused to "celebrate later" and instructed, "Now we will get your things. And need I remind you, I do not wish to see you again."
Semptat soon gleefully departed the Courthouse, collected his things, and went to find some food beyond the pale jail grub that he had become accustomed too.
The crowd left the courtroom pensive and quiet.
Tracer
Date: 1st day of The Festival of the Morning, 227th Year of the Republic
Seated: Eione Naevia
Accused: Tracer
Accuser: Caucus, on behalf of Legio I
Brief Summary: Accused as a conspirator to murder a legio recruit, Jonce. Sentenced to conscription into Legio I.
Detailed Summary:
Upon the early days of the new Year of 227, the long delayed trial of Tracer came before the Harbor Courthouse. Assistant Justice Naevia presided. Court counsel Caucus was called in as a last minute replacement due to the absence of accusing Counsel Phytias. Court counsel Expedicus undertook as the counsel for the accused.
Tracer was accused of participation in the murder of the legio recruit Jonce. It is believed he assisted and abetted Serade in the outright murder of the victim. His case for trial had been delayed due to unique circumstances. But after two long Iridine years, Tracer appeared in court.
As the opening statements began, Caucus stated the basic facts of the charges against the accused. Following this, Expedicus began with a statement that the accused, Tracer, did in fact hit the victim during the crime, but not with the intent of murderous harm.
Upon completion of the opening statements, Caucus deferred his case to the Justice as he awaited a key witness. Expedicus began by calling Tracer as a witness. During questioning, Tracer admitted to mishap upon an argument between the victim and Serade. He said he tried to stop the incident, but as he avowed several times, events occurred so fast he did not have a chance to hinder the crime or cry out for assistance.
After Tracer's testimony, Caucus' witness, Tug, arrived. The arresting constable, Tug, made several key statements concerning the crime itself. He gave testimony of a person who claimed to be a witness to the crime.
After cross-examination of witnesses by both counsels, closing statements were made. Assistant Justice Naevia paused to write her verdict upon the accused.
She confirmed that the evidence was clear. Tracer did in fact participate in the murder of the legio recruit, Jonce. It was therefore Tracer's duty to replace Jonce as a recruit in the legio. Tracer would be conscripted into the Legio at the earliest convenience. At that statement, the trial ended. Tracer was removed back to his jail cell.
Listening to the response in the courtroom gallery, the ruling of the Assistant Justice seemed to satisfy no one present. Persons mumbled quietly and argued openly about the immediate implications of such a ruling. Later, Tribune Noraetis was observed looking for a constable to release Tracer from his cell. Tracer is believed to be assigned to the road building effort in Blackvine.
Lhundal
Date: 20th day of Ereal, 228th Year of the Republic
Seated: Maius Auila
Accused: Lhundal Terrian
Accuser: Phytias, on behalf of the Iridine Constables
Brief Summary: Accused of multiple murders, but due to insufficient testimony, found guilty on only one count of murder. Fined twenty talents and sentenced to a public lashing.
Detailed Summary:
Lhundal was brought to trial before Assistant Justice Maius Auila. Phytias was appointed as the accusing counsel on behalf of the constables. He was supported by the Constable Kalis. The prisoner, Lhundal was left to defend himself.
After a bit of confusion regarding the preparation of Court counsels, Maius Auila began the proceedings.
"Lhundal Terrian, you are accused of one count of Murder of a Humilore," the Justice stated.
Phytias began his remarks by thanking Assistant Justice Auila and then added, "We'll show to the court that this person took the opportunity to commit murderers of citizens of our Republic, which is the sign of infamy and hardly punished. Haunting the Steps and taking the opportunity in dark circumstances to get their life. But, a mistake permitted to have him caught and his repeated murders revealed. The constable Kalis will report the facts and on this base, there will be no other questions asked than the sentence the court will have to think about."
In his own defense, Lhundal said, "I am most innocent, sir. I should think that all I can say just now, sir."
Phytias called the constable Kalis to report. Kalis stated clearly that reports from Ghalmeon indicated Lhundal killing citizens in the Steps.
Kalis stated, "Lhundal was killing citizens when a passerby walked by and asked him about it, the passerby was than attacked in an attempt to keep the crime secret. He informed Ghalmeon of the crime, Ghalmeon wrote the report and I arrested Lhundal. We prosecute all crime in the city, even crime in the steps if they are in our jurisdiction."
Kalis remarked he believed between eight to twelve persons were murdered by the prisoner. However when questioned by the Justice as to the inaccurate numbers, Kalis could not clarify the exact number of victims nor give the name or occupation of a single victim of the accused. After Phytias did not call another witness, Lhundal requested Kalis to testify regarding his own arrest. Almost immediately Lhundal began an increasing desperate tirade against the Constable Kalis. Lhundal began attacking the constable's integrity, and then strangely the whole integrity of the constabulary of the Republic while declaring his innocence. After Assistant Justice Auila repeatedly ordered Lhundal to observe courtroom procedures and stop making wild and incoherent statements, the Court was recessed until a sentence could be handed down.
After a long break, Assistant Justice Maius Auila found Lhundal guilty of for one count of murder of a Humilore. He was ordered to pay a fine of no less than twenty talents, and immediately be given a public lashing in the forums.
Despite the rather long and confused trial, several observations can be made regarding this case and sentencing. First, although the Justice did believe that the prisoner did commit more than one murder, the constables could not verbally present credible enough evidence to confirm that fact. Thus, a lighter sentence that expected was delivered. Second, the decision of the prisoner to personally question his accusers was at the end disastrous for himself. Instead of trying to prove his innocence, he simply led on an incoherent tirade against the legal system of the Republic and those who work in its' service. It is believed the prisoner was sentenced more for speaking against one of the pillars of Republic, rather than for the specific crimes of which he was found guilty. Observers to this trial departed somewhat baffled, confused and reassured in their prejudices. Many persons indicated that the accused deserved punishment for attacking the legal system of the Republic. Others thought that the accused was quite innocent because the constables could not effectively communicate the definite crimes committed.
Metharus
Date: 12th day of Allinius, 228th Year of the Republic
Seated: Talius Noraetis
Accused: Metharus
Accuser: Iridine Constables
Brief Summary: Accused was found guilty of posessing contraband during a second trial and sentenced to slavery for five years.
Detailed Summary:
On the 12th day of Allinius of the Year 228, Talius Noraetis was specially reappointed to the Harbor Courthouse to handle some backlogged cases. The first trial Justice Noraetis would deal with was with the convicted murderer, Metharus.
As with the first time Metharus came before the courts, he was again accused of murdering Vixelic, a citizen of Altene. But this time he was also accused of having in his possession contraband, a hooded cloak.
The prosecuting constable spoke strongly of the evidence against the prisoner. Justice Noraetis also had parchments of witnesses and other evidence in hand to consider against the accused. Besides the charge of murder, Metharus was found in possession of contraband - a hooded cloak. It was argued that Metharus was wearing the cloak when he murdered the victim, Vixelic.
In response to the accusation, Metharus conducted his own defense. He admitted having ownership of the hooded cloak, but argued strongly that possession does not mean using the item. He introduced evidence to the court to indicate that he could not have murdered the victim while using the cloak.
Once again as with the first trial, Metharus was found guilty. Justice Noraetis ordered him sentenced into slavery for five Iridine years.
The highest bidder for Metharus was Ultimatius and Evangeline.
Sadly, soon after he was sold into slavery, Metharus was to be heard in the public mind laughing an carrying on with his friends as if nothing at all had occurred. Then shortly after this, he announced departing the city for a while. Whether his owners, Ultimatius and Evangeline agreed to Metharus' departure from the city is unknown and whether or not Metharus will return to the city before his five years of slavery is up is also unclear.
Antius
Date: 22nd day of Ereal, 229th Year of the Republic
Seated: Pentheus Priaxios
Accused: Antius Laranges
Accuser: Severus Gaius, on behalf of House Gaius
Brief Summary: Client of the accuser found guilty of fraud and sentenced to three months in prison or one month a half of public imprisonment in a cage.
Detailed Summary:
On the afternoon on the 22nd day of Ereal in the 229th Year of the Republic, Foreign Justice Pentheus Priaxios called to order a case in the Vetallun Courthouse. On the agenda this day was a case of financial fraud between The Plathius Gaius Estate and Antius Laranges.
After the counsel for the accused Antius Laranges, Liandria, pleaded not guilty on his behalf, opening statements were read.
The counsel for the Estate, Severus Gaius stated, "Your honor it is my hope today to prove without the shadow of a doubt, that, that man did willfully defraud my father, and his estate of some thirty talents, using his position as my father's chief and most trusted servant in charge of the finances to pilfer these funds."
In response, the counsel for the accused, Liandria, declared, "That there is money missing from the Gaius estates your honor is obvious or this case would not be here before you today. However, the defendant here before you today did not make off with these monies. He is simply an innocent man in the wrong place at the wrong time."
Foreign Justice Pentheus Priaxios called the accuser to bring his first witness and Severus Gaius called his father Plathius Gaius to the stand.
In a statement declaring his business, Plathius Gaius said, "I own quite a large farm east of Vetallun, about halfway to the Blue Breakwater inn. The farm grows mostly olives, for olive oil, and a few odd grains and fruits on the side. Naturally for a farm its size I require a great deal of labor. Most of it is provided by slaves my family owns."
Plathius Gaius indicated that the accused, Antius was a freeborn Cineran who previously worked on an estate in Cinera. Antius seemed to know numbers very well, so Gaius placed him in charge of his estate's finances. He further elaborated that, "he was in charge of totaling up the olive harvest as well as the other things grown on the farm. Then keeping the logs of how much exactly these things went for at market."
The accusing counsel then produced a logbook as evidence against the accused as an exhibit to the court.
Further questioning of the estate's owner discovered that he had been watching the accused very careful of late since double checking the figures two months ago. Some of the prices in the ledger were off slightly and Plathius Gaius became suspicious which he then discovered more errors in math.
After adding up the errors, he discovered that "a little over thirty talents" was missing.
Further testimony indicated that only the accused had access to both the money and the account ledgers. The next witness called was a slave, Rantius, from the Gaius Estate who claimed to have known the accused, Antius, before they both arrived at the Gaius Estate. In his testimony, the slave mentioned he was friendly with the accused. He further testified that the accused came into a large sum of money and the slave also indirectly inferred such funds were gotten through perhaps an illegal means.
That being the last witness for House Gaius, Justice Pentheus Priaxios asked the accused's counsel to state his case. The counsel for the accused, Liandria placed Plathius Gaius on the stand again.
Under questioning, Plathius Gaius admitted that Antius was in his employ for fourteen years. During this time, Antius was not found in trouble except for this mistake in the ledger. Plathius Gaius further admitted the mistakes in the ledger only began a year ago. In response, Liandria seemed to emphasize the "loyal, faithful unblemished service" of the accused for the Gaius Estate. Under further questioning, it appeared Antius seemed to have no habits or motive to indicate a need to actually steal from the estate.
Although the counsel Liandria questioned placement of the ledger when not in possession of the accused and the possibility that another person might have known its' whereabouts and changed it's figures, nothing came of this exchange with Plathius Gaius.
The next witness called by Liandria was the prisoner and the accused Antius.
Under questioning Antius mentioned leaving the estate of a Cineran warlord due to the poor pay, and the caste system there. He admitted that even under those conditions as a virtual slave, he was honest. Concerning the ledger, Antius agreed that numerous mistakes were within but declared they were very clever forgeries. The accused professed soundly that he did not make the mistakes.
Antius agreed that he had no financial needs because he had not spent much of the funds earned over his years of loyal service to the Gaius Estate. In a final comment under questioning, Antius spoke of not knowing the slave Rantius, but simply being able to recognize his face. After this, the accused called no more witnesses and the final statements began.
In the final statements, Severus Gaius spoke, "This case comes down to credibility, pure and simple: The words of Plathius Gaius, against a lowly foreigner from Cinera. The accused claims that Antius had no reason to steal. He had no outstanding debts. He had money, what use had he of pilfering a few talents from Plathius Gaius? But what reason do most men steal that which is not there own. Because they want more. Antius wanted more. He admits to being good with numbers. Perhaps his forging the accounts was simply a short-term measure. Perhaps he intended to pay it back when his ship came in another of his 'ventures', but steal he did. As you heard a man of great repute tell this court, no one but himself, and Antius knew where the ledger was, or had access to it. It is silly to claim another might have had access, as even if this was the case, only Antius still had access to the actual funds themselves. We ask that this court look favorably upon the evidence we have provided and rule justly and swiftly against an obviously guilty Antius."
In response, Liandria spoke for the accused saying, "At first glance it may seem like Antius has stolen from his previous employer. But only at first glance, there are simply to many holes in this case. Greed might be a powerful motivator of men it is true, however, Antius has proved to be above, not only for the fourteen years he served the Gaius estate, but before that under his Cineran master. He is well off, and comfortable. And as to the testimony of this Rantius, what is the word of the slave to this court. Slaves are known to speak lies, and their words can not be trusted in matters brought before the court. We ask that the court dismiss this baseless case, and set on obviously innocent man free."
After these statements, Justice Pentheus Priaxios pronounced a short break in which the slave Rantius was questioned.
Upon his return, Justice Pentheus Priaxios made his judgment, "After questioning the slave Rantius again, this time using methods guaranteed to get to the truth, I have come to my final ruling in this case. While I am sure Antius has been a faithful and loyal retainer in the past, it seems that with the corresponding testimony of Rantius and Plathius that there can be no doubt of his guilt. The accused, while presenting a lovely case, has sadly not proved enough that Antius did not, in fact, do the crime for which he is accused. As such it is the ruling of this court that he pay Plathius Gaius the thirty talents he is accused of stealing, as well as any outstanding interest on this money. In addition Antius will be held in jail for three months on charges of fraud, to be cut in half on successful completion of a month in a half in front of the Vetallun Courthouse to serve as a reminder. Case closed."
Right before he made his judgment on this case, the Foreign Justice read a statement to the present Justices on behalf of the Senate regarding new punishments for convicted criminals.
The letter read, "As a result of the rising increase in crime within the city of Iridine and its outlining areas, and the decrease of criminal accountability for these actions, the senate has decreed that each major courthouse in these areas be outfitted with a new means of punishment, for which those guilty of breaking the laws of this fine state might pay for their crimes publicly. Such a device has recently been installed in the newly completed courthouse at Vetallun, and will shortly be placed at prominent areas near other courthouses."
Already outside the courthouse was a large metal cage, big enough to hold several people. Thick metal bars block those from the outside from reaching in. It was stated that the thick bars would not hinder people on the outside from pelting a criminal with items such as food.
Metharus
Date: 229th Year of the Republic
Seated: Tertiana Gordia
Accused: Metharus
Accuser: Seriahn, on behalf of the Iridine Constables
Brief Summary: Accused slave of possessing contraband. Sentenced to imprisonment for the remainder of enslavement.
Detailed Summary:
After being found guilty of murdering a foreigner and possessing contraband, the accused was fined and sentenced to slavery for five years. However, during the enslaved period, the accused was arrested again on contraband charges for the possession of a hooded cloak.
Trial took place in the Steps Courthouse under the watch of Assistant Justice Tertiana Gordia. Constable Seriahn brought forth the testimony against the prisoner. Metharus was slightly assisted by the constable, Kalis. In the final result, Justice Gordia found Metharus guilty and sentenced him to return him to the Steps Jail for the remainder of his enslavement. However, Metharus refused to go peacefully. In the apprehension which followed, Metharus was knocked unconscious by the constabulary. Metharus never recovered consciousness and died while in custody.
Krystlus
Date: 16th day of Aera, 229th Year of the Republic
Seated: Tertiana Gordia
Accused: Krystlus
Accuser: Lorican, on behalf of the Iridine Constables
Brief Summary: Repeat offender tried for multiple counts of assault and commuted to a sentence of time served, five lashes and a fine of one talent to be paid to each reported victim.
Detailed Summary:
On the 16th day of Aera in the 229th Year of the Republic, Krystlus appeared before Steps Justice Tertiana Gordia in the Steps Courthouse for trial.
From the small talk in the gallery of the Steps Courthouse, it was clear that the charges against the accused surmised of habitual assault and the inability of the prisoner to reform. A few persons wondered in the gallery why this crime actually came to trial.
Constable Sergeant Lorican proceeded to accuse the prisoner Krystlus on behalf of the Republic. Krystlus defended himself. After viewing the written evidence presented to the Justice by the accusing Constable, Justice Tertiana Gordia began the proceedings by asking Constable Lorican to explain the charges.
In his opening statement, Constable Lorican stated, "the charges for which we are here today, are the repeat offences by the accused, and the fact that normal punishments and jailtime do not seem to deter him from his actions, and the constabulary seeks your decision on suitable punishment for his continued behavior, both past and present."
After slight clarification, Justice Tertiana Gordia asked the prisoner, Krystlus to make an opening statement as well. Krystlus bemoaned the fact of not having a competent counsel to defend himself, and simply stated that he would have to defend himself in the matter and wanted to get "all this" over with.
Lorican was allowed to proceed with the evidence against the accused. In his statements he said, "Krystlus has a long list of run ins with the constables, assault warrants on peopleas well as murder of a foreigner, and attempted rape. In his latest assault, he and another assaulted someone who quite visibly had little weapon skill as in the first report by him, when he attacked a harmless sailor, he was quoted to have said anyone want to go kill a sailor. The guard in the bank, was minding her own business, waiting her employer, when Krystlus and Decima killed her by means of arrows and tridents from outside the doors. The guards name was Lucycyp I believe, or something similar to that."
When the charge of rape was heard, murmurs fluttered through both the gallery and Krystlus himself briefly protested.
In response to the list of charges against the prisoner Krystlus, Justice Tertiana Gordia asked "Constable Lorican, has accused served time for the crimes he has committed?"
Lorican replied, "yes, he has, but the jailtime and fines, do not seem to deter him in the slightest. He still assaults people, with no regard for the law." Asking for a confirmed answer, the Justice repeated her question. Lorican countered with, "as far as the ones that have been reported to the constables, yes."
After Lorican had no witnesses to call and nothing to add to the charges against Krystlus, Justice Gordia asked the accused concerning witnesses.
In his defense, Krystlus affirmed, "First off, I would like to say that I have served my time, as the constable has openly admitted. I would like to add that I was told that this latest incident was the only one that matters." With that Krystlus attempted to call Liena to the stand to have "this 'rape' thing cleared up right here and now."
After a bit of confusion over whether or not Liena was actually available for testimony, Tertiana Gordia asked Krystlus for other witnesses he might have concerning the charges against him. Krystlus replied by naming witnesses not present for the trial. After a restatement by Justice Tertiana Gordia of the question, no witnesses were found on behalf of the accused.
At this point, Justice Tertiana Gordia asked for any final statements form either side. Receiving statements of no value to the decision, the Justice withdrew for a short period of time.
When Justice Tertiana Gordia reappeared, she declared, "Krystlus has been shown to be a habitual criminal. Krystlus who has not learned his lessons very well. However, I do feel that he has served enough time for his crimes. He has served all the time for the crimes he has committed. I could choose to have him branded…however, I will not…at this time…"
"If you EVER come before me in a court of law again, accused of any crime, no matter how petty I will order you branded. I order you to submit to five lashes of the whip. I order you to pay one talent recompense to all your victims that have filed charges against you."
"You MUST post the notice of your paying the recompense in the public notice office by the end of the week."
"Only victims who have filed constable reports may collect from you."
"That is all, court is dismissed. The whipping will be carried out immediately."
In response to the request for the victim list from the constables Lorican disclosed, "Lahan, Dreamus, Liena, Gump are the ones we have reports on."
Immediately Krystlus was whipped and released to compensate the victims.
Isle
Date: 24th day of Aera, 229th Year of the Republic
Seated: Tertiana Gordia
Accused: Isle Harten
Accuser: Dalos, on behalf of the Iridine Constables
Brief Summary: Branded repeat offender tried on multiple assaults. Sentenced to execution as a gladiator and public imprisonment in a cage.
Detailed Summary:
On the late morning of the 24th day of Aera in the 229th Year of the Republic within the Steps Courthouse, Justice Tertiana Gordia held the trial of repeat offender Isle Harten.
The constable Dalos served as the prosecutor in the case and the accused proceeded to defend himself. Distinguished persons Celeres Illyria, Laphus Nicatian and Maius Auila were in attendance in the courtroom gallery.
The charges against the accused ranged from an assault upon a person named Isles and being a repeat offender of multiple assaults.
After stating a pardon for the long delay of the trial, Tertiana Gordia open the trial for public hearing. Opening statements were called for by the Justice.
In his opening statement, officer Dalos declared, "Lady Justice, we have before us Isle Harten, a hardened criminal who has recently served a trial and is now back with us after attacking Isles. Isle was put to trial for constant attacks on citizens, foreigners and even constables, he agreed he wouldn't continue his ways thus receiving himself ten lashings and the brand of a thief. He hasn't seemed to learn from his penalties and should be sentenced with a much harsher punishment."
Isle, in his statement, seemed rather confused as to the charges against him. After being reminded to listen to the statement of the accusing constable, Isle pleaded guilty to assaulting Isles and then sarcastically mentioned, "Minor assault, hoopoe."
Upon hearing the opening statements, Justice Tertiana Gordia stated she had documents regarding this prisoner and his record. She asked former Justice Maius Auila if he would like to address the court as the last Justice to deal with the accused Isle.
After this clarification, constable Dalos was requested to call witnesses against the accused. Dalos simply stood by the evidence already stated by saying, "The prisoner is a repeated criminal and a danger to society, the documents I gave you, his branded head and his record speak for themselves."
Turning to the Accused, Tertiana Gordia asked for his case. Isle responded only by saying, "I can be hasty sometimes in judging people, but I believe my past punishments have made me realize that I need to reform my ways to live among the other citizens." Isle finished and appeared to have nothing further to say in his defense.
After a period of consideration, Justice Tertiana Gordia made a quick judgement upon the accused. Justice Gordia declared, "As much as this pains me to do this, as far as I can see, this is an open and shut case. Isle, you are hereby declared a danger to society. You will be handed over to the Assistant Steward of the Games. You will be held in jail, until such time as you will be sent to the arena, to face your death. May Ereal have mercy on your soul."
The prisoner seemed rather surprised by this sentence and tried to clarify, but the case was ordered closed. After a moment, Isle began to be unruly and several constables were called to the ready. The Justice ordered an additional sentence of time in the Steps Courthouse cage for the prisoner. To quiet the prisoner and his defenders in the gallery, Justice Gordia asked that the Courthouse be cleared.
In the gallery, most of the opinion concerning this case was muted. Most agreed that the sentencing of this repeat offender to the Colosseum was justifiable and a few persons raged in anger against the verdict.
I-III Abbreviatum
I. Aglaia - 219/Conqueror/6 - Lucius Sulla
Summary: Foreigner charged with treason and sentenced to an additional month in prison and twenty-five lashings upon release.
II. Larson, Morgyn, Wehttam - 220/Lucifal/5 - Talius Noraetis
Summary: Three conspirators charged with multiple murders of patricians. Larson and Morgyn sentenced to execution with Whettam being reprieved to lifetime enslavement with the compensation of all his possessions being sold to profit the victims of the crimes.
III. Metharus - 222/Jemros/1 - Talius Noraetis
Summary: Citizenship of victim could not be proved and accused was charged with murder of a foreigner and fined five talents and sentenced to five public lashings.
IV-VI Abbreviatum
IV. Mendus - 223 - Maravius Antonius
Summary: Accused as a conspirator in the murder of a Humilore, fined thirty talents to be paid to the victim's family and sentenced to a public lashing.
V. Baelfel - 224/Lucifal/32 - Eione Naevia
Summary: Accused of one count of murder of a Humilore named Thomas, sentenced to four extra months of imprisonment, fined ten talents and continued compensation for ten years to be paid to the victim's family.
VI. Rindak - 226/Morning/6 - Eione Naevia
Summary: Repeat offender accused of multiple counts of Disturbing the Peace, Treason, assault, and murder. Sentenced to execution in the Colosseum.
VII-X Abbreviatum
VII. Semptat - 226/Aera/31 - Eione Naevia
Summary: The accused was released after a sentence which commuted his crimes to time already served in prison.
VIII. Tracer - 227/Morning/1 - Eione Naevia
Summary: Accused as a conspirator to murder a legio recruit, Jonce. Sentenced to conscription into Legio I.
IX. Lhundal - 228/Ereal/20 - Maius Auila
Summary: Accused of multiple murders, but due to insufficient testimony, found guilty on only one count of murder. Fined twenty talents and sentenced to a public lashing.
X. Metharus - 228/Allinius/12 - Talius Noraetis
Summary: Accused was found guilty of posessing contraband during a second trial and sentenced to slavery for five years.
XI-XIV Abbreviatum
XI. Antius - 229/Ereal/22 - Pentheus Priaxios
Summary: Client of the accuser found guilty of fraud and sentenced to three months in prison or one month a half of public imprisonment in a cage.
XII. Metharus - 229 - Tertiana Gordia
Summary: Accused slave of possessing contraband. Sentenced to imprisonment for the remainder of enslavement.
XIII. Krystlus - 229/Area/16 - Tertiana Gordia
Summary: Repeat offender tried for multiple counts of assault and commuted to a sentence of time served, five lashes and a fine of one talent to be paid to each reported victim.
XIV. Isle - 229/Aera/24 - Tertiana Gordia
Summary: Branded repeat offender tried on multiple assaults. Sentenced to execution as a gladiator and public imprisonment in a cage.
Notes
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"Iura novit curia."
Iudicium Digestae Codex I, Edition I, cir. 247.
This edition was published by House Auila in the 247th Year of the Republic under the watchful eye of Ereal with all respect towards Him being the final word of justice.
Contents within are collected works from various sources with the majority of summaries by Expedicus Siniticus.
Other original authors include Alsask Alfiero Kadath, Anigel Jocasta and various unknown courtroom observers.
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