I have been puzzling over James Arthur Ray’s actions and public statements since he killed and injured people in Arizona. It finally dawned on me. Before I share this opinion I am disclosing that I am not an Attorney or Lawyer and that I have never played one on TV. I am a recovering “Seminar Junkie” that has experienced all types of seminars and workshops and what happens from in the seats, behind the scenes and in front of the room. Having said that, here is my opinion.

James Ray’s actions are consistent with a business man’s managing risk with an understanding of contract law and civil litigation. In this arena, the side with the biggest bankroll, nastiest disposition and highest paid lawyers can bully and BS people into submission, often before entering litigation. But Mr. Ray is facing a Criminal Investigation and Criminal Charges which is conducted in a completely different ball park.

It’s my understanding that the burden of proof is on Law Enforcement to build a case where a reasonable person can beyond a reasonable doubt see that James Arthur Ray’s actions (or lack of actions) directly contributed to the deaths and injuries at his seminar. The rules that Law Enforcement and Prosecution play by are totally different because it’s a different game.

Based on what I’ve seen, James Ray has collected quite a few people that do not like him and his business practices. His history of an inflexible no-refunds policy and just “Get Over It” attitude have definitely created some people that want to see him go down and go down hard. From their point of view he does not practice what he preaches and is only out for the money – at any cost, even death and injury to his customers.

And by the way, Yavapai County Sheriff Steve Waugh was reelected last year. So you’ll have to figure out a better angle for why that are trying to stop you from “helping” people, maybe like – public safety!