The Fort Worth Police Department in Texas is responding to criticism after officers threatened Christian street preachers with citations for disorderly conduct during the Trinity Pride Fest. The incident, which occurred on June 27, involved officers confronting preachers Richard Penkoski and David Grisham about their religious speech, which led to a viral exchange on social media. Officer Sarah Stogner stated that if someone was offended by the preachers' speech, it could lead to a citation. The police later issued a citation related to noise from a bullhorn.
The situation has attracted federal attention, with the Department of Justice reviewing the incident. Police Chief Eddie Garcia acknowledged that the officers mishandled the situation, stating that there was a need for better communication regarding lawful speech. He mentioned that the department would implement renewed training on First Amendment rights.
Attorney CJ Grisham, representing one of the preachers, argued that the citation was baseless and indicated a pattern of abuse by Officer Stogner. The police department has not clarified whether any disciplinary actions will be taken against the officers involved. Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights, Harmeet Dhillon, has requested further information from the police department to assess if formal actions are necessary, emphasizing that government actors cannot restrict free speech based on its content.