Tenn. teen in jail for burning American flag

[cynatnite]

MARYVILLE, Tenn. - A teenager was jailed for nine days after being accused of burning an American flag on the Fourth of July, and he faces trial next month.

While the case could test a state statute against flag burning — an act the U.S. Supreme Court says is protected under the First Amendment — prosecutors said Andrew Elisha Staley has yet to argue that he was exercising free speech rights.

"Bottom line is, the kid got drunk," said Lisa Lee, his mother. "He's never been in trouble before."

Staley, 18, is accused of taking the flag from a residence and setting it on fire. His father said the teenager "has no reason for anger against the United States" and could easily have ignited a garbage can instead of a flag.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20050715/ap_on_re_us/flag_burning

[stepnw1f]

1. What An Asinine Law!?

If you need to make a law to keep your own people from desecrating their flag, then maybe the problem is the government. I would also add that a law to protect a bullshit ego confirms that it is bullshit.

So freeper? Get over it.... your way sucks because it's oppressive!

[Imalittleteapot]

2. Tell the Chinese to use inflammable material on their American flags.

That would end the debate, 'cept Congress would probably make it illegal to cut up the flag.