Story perspectives

Arrest Over Meme Sparks First Amendment Controversy

12/21/2025

Center

Sheriff Arrests Meme Critic

Sheriff Nick Weems of Perry County, Tennessee arrested Larry Bushart over a Facebook meme criticizing Charlie Kirk after his murder.
Bushart spent 37 days in jail on a $2 million bond before charges were dropped.
Bushart's lawsuit says the arrest violated his First Amendment rights because it stemmed from protected speech.
The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression argues the case shows dangers of retaliatory action against free expression.

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Peters Pardoned Amid Controversy

Tina Peters, former Mesa County elections chief, remains imprisoned for election fraud after admitting unauthorized access.
U.S. President Donald Trump recently announced a pardon for Peters.
Extremists, including January 6 rioters, rallied to her cause and threatened to break her out.
Governor Jared Polis rejected calls for release, noting that Peters was prosecuted by a Republican district attorney, which heightens attention to election misinformation.

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Sheriff Arrests Meme Critic

Sheriff Nick Weems of Perry County, Tennessee arrested Larry Bushart over a Facebook meme criticizing Charlie Kirk after his murder.
Bushart spent 37 days in jail on a $2 million bond before charges were dropped.
Bushart's lawsuit says the arrest violated his First Amendment rights because it stemmed from protected speech.
The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression argues the case shows dangers of retaliatory action against free expression.

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