I was totally speechless after reading this story about Fire Captain Thomas Araguz, who was killed 2 weeks ago on July 3 at a structure fire in Wharton, Texas. Thankfully – there is a video to explain the details so I don't have to – but you won't believe this story. Every time I think Hollywood goes overboard in making up a story for Law and Order or CSI, I see a story like this.
The law on the subject is actually pretty straightforward. Fraud is grounds for the annullment of a marriage. Violation of law or public policy is as well (although some may argue the law in Texas is discriminatory). In either event – whether on the grounds of a same sex marriage or fraud – an annulled marriage is void from the beginning…. as if it never happened. That means his ex-wife.. er… first mate – is out.
Wow. I am so glad I got the url www.youcantmakethisstuffup.net.
http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid716758716?bctid=207639551001
More on the story along with a brief interview with Mrs. Aarguz.
The issues are starting to emerge in this bizzare case – and probably the most important one will be whether or not Captain Agarus knew his wife was born a man and had a sex change operation.
Aragus’s family adamantly denies that – and claims the revelation that occurred during a custody hearing from a previous marriage in April, 2010, was the reason Captain Aragus filed for divorce.
Here’s a link to more on the story.
http://www.khou.com/news/Wharton-Firefighters-First-Wife-Spekas-Out-99581174.html