Tangipahoa Parish Man Challenges Arrest Over Facebook Post as Unconstitutional
A Tangipahoa Parish man is challenging his arrest over a Facebook post, claiming it violates his First Amendment rights. Arden Wells, a 70-year-old resident, was arrested on July 25, 2025, for allegedly posting false information about an inmate escape from the Tangipahoa Parish jail.
Terrorizing Charge Sparks Free Speech Debate
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office stated that Wells posted on June 24, 2025, implying that there was chaos at the jail due to an escape. He wrote, “Deputies have blocked streets & a helicopter is flying over the jail, it appears a prisoner has escaped from the TPSO jail!” However, the sheriff’s office confirmed that no escape occurred on that day.
The post gained significant traction, receiving 83 shares and 24 comments, raising concerns about public safety. Sheriff Gerald Sticker emphasized that disseminating false information that causes panic is intolerable. “Just as the law does not allow someone to falsely yell ‘fire’ in a theater, a person cannot falsely publicize concerning events,” he stated.
Wells, an outspoken critic of Sheriff Sticker, expressed his disbelief at the delay in arresting him, questioning how authorities could simultaneously consider him a threat while allowing the situation to persist for so long. He maintained that his post did not incite panic but merely reflected the visible law enforcement activity occurring at the jail.
Legal Proceedings and Potential Implications
The charge of “terrorizing” can carry a prison sentence of up to 15 years. However, it remains unclear if Wells will stand trial, as Tangipahoa Parish District Attorney Scott Perrilloux stated the case is still under review. Constitutional law expert Dane Ciolino indicated that the prosecution might struggle to prove intent to cause panic, especially considering Wells’ history of vocal opposition to the sheriff.
Wells plans to file a lawsuit against the sheriff’s office once the criminal case is resolved, asserting that free speech encompasses the right to share unpopular opinions and challenging authority.
The outcome of this case could have significant implications for free speech and the limits of online expression, particularly in an era where social media plays a critical role in public communication.
