Hi Mr. Faraj, thanks very much for your prompt reply. This was new information filed with the court that was not previously asserted by prosecutors or the FBI and it has the potential for broader implications in the diplomatic world. It is very good to have your comments and will include in our story. Thanks very much for your time. Bests, Jeremy. From: Haytham Faraj [mailto:haytham@puckettfaraj.com] Mr. Pelofsky, Thank you for contacting us for a comment. Mr. Soueid did indeed have contacts with the Syrian Ambassador and other diplomats. But what is wrong with that? Mr. Soueid was born in Syria, is proud of his Syrian heritage, has family in Syria and fears for his homeland during a very turbulent period. Mr. Soueid has no greater access to the Ambassador of Syria than other prominent members of the Syrian community. The fact that he morally supports the Government of Syria would certainly place him in greater favor with the Embassy staff. But again, what is wrong with that? Mr. Soueid is being persecuted for his views and because those views are contrary to the policy now in vogue. With respect to the AK-47, Mr. Soueid did indeed own an AK-47. That weapon is registered and legal. He lives in the Commonwealth of Virginia where it is legal to own such a weapon so long as it is registered and in not automatic. Mr. Soueid’s AK-47 is registered and is not automatic. He has used it lawfully on occasions at shooting ranges and hunting. Such possession and activity are lawful. Mr. Soueid is a lifetime member of the NRA and takes pride in owning firearms. I am available at 760-521-7934 should you need to contact me. Sincerely, Haytham Faraj, Esq. PUCKETT & FARAJ, PC _______________________ WASHINGTON DC METRO The Law Firm of Puckett & Faraj, PC 1800 Diagonal Road Suite 210 Alexandria, VA 22314 703-706-0442 Phone 202-280-1039 Fax DETROIT METRO The Law Firm of Puckett & Faraj, PC 835 Mason Street Suite 150-A Dearborn, MI 48124 313-457-1390 Phone 202-280-1039 Fax The information contained in this electronic message is confidential, and is intended for the use of the individual or entity named above. If you are not the intended recipient of this message, you are hereby notified that any use, distribution, copying of disclosure of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you received this communication in error, please notify Puckett & Faraj, P.C. at 888-970-0005 or via a return the e-mail to sender. You are required to purge this E-mail immediately without reading or making any copy or distribution. This email was sent to you by Thomson Reuters, the global news and information company. Any views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender, except where the sender specifically states them to be the views of Thomson Reuters. |