The U.S. Supreme Court weighs a major Eighth Amendment and asset forfeiture case involving Alaska’s attempt to seize a $95,000 airplane over illegally transported beer. Plus, Ford faces scrutiny after an 11-year employee was fired over a $1.95 cookie despite bank records showing he paid, new medical research suggests sports fans’ heartbeats may synchronize, and Russia’s unusual “barbecue companion” business turns temporary friendship into a paid service.

On today’s TMI Show with Ted Rall and Manila Chan:

The Supreme Court considers whether confiscating a pilot’s 1969 Cessna constitutes an excessive fine under the Eighth Amendment. The Alaska airplane forfeiture case could determine whether courts must evaluate a defendant’s actual conduct or may justify a major property seizure by citing the broader dangers associated with an offense. ...