Authorities in Tennessee have dropped a felony charge against a man jailed for more than a month over a Facebook post about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Larry Bushart's case stood out amidst a wave of job losses in the U.S. for social media comments regarding Kirk’s death and sparked considerable debate over free speech. Bushart, who shared several memes about the situation, was arrested for threatening mass violence at a school after featuring a meme that included a quote from former President Donald Trump related to a school shooting in Iowa. Although many viewed his posts as harmless, the local sheriff claimed the meme alarmed the community, believing it suggested a threat to a local high school. After the charge was dropped, Bushart expressed his relief at returning home, stating he never aimed to become a media sensation. The case has raised important discussions about the boundaries of free speech and social media expression.
Tennessee Authorities Drop Felony Charge Against Man Over Facebook Post
Tennessee Authorities Drop Felony Charge Against Man Over Facebook Post
Larry Bushart, jailed for over a month due to a Facebook meme referencing the assassination of Charlie Kirk, sees his felony charge dismissed amid concerns over free speech.
Tennessee authorities have dismissed a felony charge against Larry Bushart, a former law enforcement officer who was jailed for over a month after posting a Facebook meme that referenced the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Bushart's arrest sparked debates on free speech, with critics arguing it was politically motivated. Although Bushart's arrest raised alarms, the sheriff acknowledged that most of his posts were lawful. Upon release, Bushart expressed relief at going home after the controversial case sparked significant media attention.
