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News

Police Immunity Overruled in Retaliatory Arrest Case

  • J. Justin Wilson

In a major turnaround, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit reversed its own prior decision and ruled that Mason Murphy’s First Amendment lawsuit against Sunrise Beach, Missouri, police officer Michael Schmitt can proceed in the trial court. The court’s opinion breathes new life into Murphy’s case, which asks whether police can jail someone to punish them for questioning their authority. “This ruling reminds police that the Constitution does not allow them to arrest people for bruising their egos,” said Institute for Justice attorney Marie Miller, who…

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Learn More About Economic Liberty

Economic Liberty

IJ believes that all people have the right to earn an honest living in the occupation of their choice without arbitrary, unnecessary, or protectionist government interference.

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Private Property

IJ defends the right of all Americans to own and enjoy their property free from unjust seizures, searches, and fines.

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First Amendment

IJ fights for the right to speak freely about the issues that matter most to ordinary people and to defend the free flow of information essential to democratic government and free enterprise.

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Educational Choice

IJ stands for the idea that every child deserves a chance at a great education and that all parents, regardless of means, should enjoy the freedom to direct their children’s education.

Our Projects

Learn More About Ending Civil Forfeiture

Ending Civil Forfeiture

Under civil forfeiture, people can permanently lose their property without a criminal conviction or even charges. This is one of the gravest abuses of power in the country today, and IJ aims to put a stop to it.

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Food Freedom

All individuals have the right to produce, advertise, sell, procure, and consume the foods of their choice. IJ ensures they can use these rights to provide for themselves, their families, and their communities.

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Zoning Justice

Arbitrary and abusive zoning practices make our society less free and less prosperous. IJ stands up for all Americans’ right to use their property peacefully and productively, without undue government interference.

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Short Circuit 384 | Metering Constitutional Rights

Can the government force you to only exercise a constitutional right once a month? Could it do that with speech? Or practicing religion? How about […]

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