Andy...No one's civil rights have been violated. I can tell you aren't an attorney. Your assertion of federal jurisdiction in this case is preposterous. It overreaches even more than Nifong. And My God, he overreached to an astonishing degree.
The quoted stated stipulates "full and equal benefit of all laws and proceedings for the security of persons and property," and these rights "are protected against ... impairment under color of State law."
The presumption of innocence, right to a fair trial, right to be secure in person and property except by due process of law are rights we all have, rights which Nifong has violated under color of State law.
I really don't know why you are trying to give this petty unconstitutional tyrant a pass under color of a doctrine of "states rights" that does not even exist.
Oh no? What Nifong has done under color of law is ok? I think you have invented a new way around Civil Rights legislation. Just bring charges against people we don't like, run the process until the legal fees bankrupt them, then drop the charges. No harm no foul - in your view.
It is not just the outcome that violates Civil Rights, but abuse of a very expensive process to begin with.
OVERREACHING!!???
LOL! That is an understatement aimed at rehabilitating Nifong. You're clearly on the side of the prosecution.
Further, his assertion is not preposterous. The DOJ section on public integrity already reviewed the particulars brought to their attention by Walter Jones, and their lawyers decided the complaint had merit for an FBI investigation for criminal violation of the civil rights of these boys.
Gonzales punted, which is no surprise.