Did anyone know that signaling other drivers by flashing one's headlights to warn of cops hiding with radar guns is protected speech, covered by the first amendment? In November of 2012, Michael Elli of Missouri decided to fight a ticket in court for doing just that, instead of paying the $1000.00 fine. When the local court realized he was going to fight the ticket, arguing first amendment rights and freedom of speech, the case was dropped. But Elli had already filed suit, and the ACLU had already gotten behind him, so the lawsuit went forward. On February 3, a federal judge ruled in favor of Elli. This means that any police officer who tickets a person for flashing car headlights to warn other drivers of a speed trap is interfering with constitutional rights.
While this does not seem monumental, it has huge impact on the entire nation, because this case sets a precedent. It is a very important statement, and a decisive victory for speech and freedom of expression protected by the first amendment. A federal court has, in effect, just told the entire nation's police departments to back off and leave the people alone. Isn't it interesting that none of the local or national media have spoken more on the subject? Why might that be?
The case is styled Elli v. Ellisville, and can be perused, copied, and quoted. Personally, I can't wait to see more people stand up for their rights. Anyone who does not stand up for his or her rights is also failing to stand up for the Constitution. Reporting on the outcomes of cases such as this should not be a problem for the media, either.
While this does not seem monumental, it has huge impact on the entire nation, because this case sets a precedent. It is a very important statement, and a decisive victory for speech and freedom of expression protected by the first amendment. A federal court has, in effect, just told the entire nation's police departments to back off and leave the people alone. Isn't it interesting that none of the local or national media have spoken more on the subject? Why might that be?
The case is styled Elli v. Ellisville, and can be perused, copied, and quoted. Personally, I can't wait to see more people stand up for their rights. Anyone who does not stand up for his or her rights is also failing to stand up for the Constitution. Reporting on the outcomes of cases such as this should not be a problem for the media, either.
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