Story perspectives

Retired Officer Arrested Over Controversial Meme, Charges Dropped

2/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

Larry Bushart, a 61-year-old retired Tennessee police officer, was arrested and charged with a felony for allegedly posting a meme perceived as a violent threat following September assassination of Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist.
Backlash followed Bushart's left-leaning online commentary.
He faced a $2 million bail and spent 37 days in jail before charges were dropped while stating he did not threaten anyone and participated in online discussions.

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Story summary

Larry Bushart, a 61-year-old retired Tennessee police officer, was arrested and charged with a felony for allegedly posting a meme perceived as a violent threat following September assassination of Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist.
Backlash followed Bushart's left-leaning online commentary.
He faced a $2 million bail and spent 37 days in jail before charges were dropped while stating he did not threaten anyone and participated in online discussions.