Kane’s unorthodox philosophy about government was discussed in radio interviews he participated in and several YouTube videos of seminars he taught across the country.
The younger Kane was reportedly home-schooled and usually traveled with his father when Jerry Kane taught such classes.
The elder Kane was a self-proclaimed “Freeman,” which meant he rejected government and would only correspond with officials elected by the people when he did acknowledge any type of authority.
That’s why he approached Sheriff Gene Kelly in 2004 to intervene with a local judge about a traffic violation.
Instead, Kelly issued a letter of warning about the elder Kane, feeling compelled to warn local officers after Kane’s visit.
“He is rebellious and against government and the U.S.,” Kelly wrote. “Will have problems with this subject when trying to apprehend, armed and dangerous.”
Then nine-year-old Joseph was by his father’s side when he visited Kelly.
Joseph carried a toy gun and mimicked the anti-government phrases his father used, Kelly said.
In an online broadcast posted in early May, days before the West Memphis, Ark., shooting, Jerry Kane said he had been jailed recently in New Mexico after a traffic stop for driving without a license.
Contact this reporter at (937) 328-0374 or
boutten@coxohio.com.
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