Army officer won't ship out, faces court martial

Lt. Ehren Watada refused to go to Iraq because he feels that the war is immoral and illegal. In addition, he has spoken out against the war on several occasions: "As the order to take part in an illegal act is ultimately unlawful as well, I must as an officer of honor and integrity refuse that order." Watada's attorney argued that his speech was protect and that the war violated army regulations which state that wars must adhere to the United Nations charter. However, the military judge rejected both arguments.

http://www.cnn.com/2007/US/02/05/war.objector.ap/index.html

First and Fourth Amendment Issue

In 2002 Thomas Leonard cursed while addressing a township meeting. The township officer arrested Mr. Leonard for the use of profanity. A lower court held that the officer was justified in arresting Mr. Leonard. However, the 6th US Circut Court of Appeals reversed the lower courts decision saying that the officers actions were not justified because Mr. Leonard did not pose a threat. Later on, Mr. Leonard sued claiming that his First and Fourth Amendment Rights were violated. However, the US. District Court held that the officer did have probable cause; so the charges were dropped. Mr. Leonard's attorney is working on an appeal to the Supreme Court.

http://www.cnn.com/2007/LAW/02/02/Profanity.arrest.ap/index.html