Law and Magic Blog

Lebanese TV Psychic's Death Sentence Stayed, But Has He Been Sent Home?

Ali Sibat, a 49-year-old Lebanese tv psychic on a pilgrimmage to Mecca, was arrested back in November on witchcraft, tried very quickly, and condemmed to death. Because of a public outcry, Saudi officials stayed the execution, and now may have decided to repatriate Mr. Sibat. But I cannot find any indication that he has returned to Lebanon, where being a psychic is not a crime. His wife indicated in mid-June that she was still waiting for his release. I haven't been able to find any updated information on his case.

I Don't Dream of Jeannie

A Saudi court may soon have to contend with a genie as defendant. A family living in Mahd Al Dahab says a genie, or jinn, is harassing it, throwing stones, stealing cell phones, and generally making itself annoying. Actually, there might be more than one spirit involved. The father of the family says, "A woman spoke to me first, and then a man. They said we should get out of the house." He also says these things have been going on, at increasing levels, for a couple of years.

Authorities are naturally trying to verify the claims in order to proceed, but are encountering problems. How does one track down the truth in such paranormal allegations? And if they are true, how does one sue a genie, or hold a genie criminally accountable? After all, the family is claiming "theft and harassment." And if so, what remedy would be available?