Judge nixes California ban on selling violent video games to children
The object of 'Grand Theft Auto' is to kill police officers, beat up prostitutes, and drive as recklessly as possible.
A federal judge has blocked California from banning sales of violent video games to children, prompting backers to vow to take their case to the US Supreme Court if necessary. In a decision late Thursday, US District Court Judge Ronald Whyte granted the entertainment software industry's request for an injunction halting implementation a California law slated to take effect January 1.
The law, which was signed by celebrity governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, banned the sale of extremely violent games such as the popular Grand Theft Auto series to people under 18 unless they have parental consent.
Whyte indicated in his decision that games are protected by the first amendment of the US Constitution and that it appeared likely the gaming industry would come out the winner in a court battle over the issue.
"We are extremely pleased," Entertainment Software Association president Douglas Lowenstein...
Kevin Swanson | 10/4/2012
