Steve Kurtz
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Steve Kurtz is a member of the performance art group "Critical Art Ensamble" (CAE). He is primarily known for his work in Bio-Art, and because of his arrest by the FBI in May 2004. Because Kurtz' work often deals with social criticism, many see his persecution as a form of censorship by the Bush Administration.
Arrest Background
Kurtz first aroused the suspicion of authorities in May 2004 when he called 911 to report the death of his wife by cardiac arrest. Because Kurtz regularly worked with biological specimens as part of his art installations, he had a diverse array of scientific instruments scattered about his house. Local law enforcement became wary of Steve's intentions, and notified the FBI.
The police became suspicious of his art supplies, and called in the FBI who detained Kurtz without charge under terrorism legislation and sealed off the entire block around his house.
His detention was deemed to be illegal the next day, although dozens of agents in hazardous material suits sifted through his work and impounding many of his possessions as well as his dead wife.
A Federal Grand jury investigation was launched in Buffalo NY to determine whether Kurtz should be brought to trial. As of February 2005 charges are still pending.
He is Associate Professor at the Department of Art at the State University of New York's University at Buffalo.
External Links
- CAE Defense Fund - Organization raising money for Kurtz' legal defense. Has additional information about the background of the Steve Kurtz case (http://www.caedefensefund.org/)
- Washington Post Article on the Arrest (http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A8278-2004Jun1.html)
- Wired News Article on the Arrest (http://wired.com/news/medtech/0,1286,63637,00.html)