Earlier this month a spectacular tanker accident burned down several houses in the Boston suburb of Everett, Mass. Ten-year-old Peter-Anthony Hereu of Wellesley felt sorry for the nine kids who’d been burned out of their homes and collected Christmas toys for them. But Everett Mayor John F. Hanlon vetoed the idea, citing recent toy recalls: “If you trip on ice, trip on a stair, trip on a present, we’re going to get sued. I don’t know what to do with the toys. We’re holding on to them until next year.” The story took a happier turn, though, when the Salvation Army volunteered to distribute the presents and shoulder liability if necessary. (Laurel J. Sweet, “‘Insane’ red tape reins in lil’ Santa’s gift sleigh for Everett victims”, Boston Herald, Dec. 24; “’Army’ comes to big-hearted toy boy’s rescue”, Dec. 25)(& welcome WizBang readers; while you’re here, why not help put us back in first place as Best General Legal Blog?).

2 Comments

I’m just sorry to see the Mayor being made to look like the Grinch. One of his duties is to look out for the interests of his City. He’s in a “damned if you do, damned if you don’t” situation.
- December 27, 2007 7:49 AM
- By Jim Collins
Not really. According to the comments to the original article the Mayor has already been turned out of office in the last election. He blamed in on the city attorney, who apparently just gave an opinion. The mayor could have handled it in many other ways, instead, by hiding behind the skirts or the city attorney he brought scorn and embarrassment to himself and his community.

Justice has been served, the good townspeople have had the election reasoning reconfirmed and the children got their toys.

Let’s just hope for the town’s sake the new mayor hires new city attorneys.
- December 27, 2007 12:08 PM
- By Bumper