Arrest and Release of Abortion Protester Sparks Debate on Free Speech Boundaries
Paul Burns faced consequences for expressing his opinions in public. He was arrested, charged with public disorder, and faced the possibility of a fine and a criminal record.
His sign critical of abortion sparked a debate with students. He was taken into police custody for speaking with an alleged intent to offend.
Before his trial, the charges against Burns were elevated to “disorderly behaviour likely to cause other people to behave violently.”
While standing outside a store in Wellington, Burns held a sign offering a reward for proving whether slavery or abortion was more evil. He engaged in discussions with passersby on the topic.
His arrest prompted the New Zealand Free Speech Union (NZFSU) to offer pro bono representation. Dr. Roderick Mulgan, the union’s chairperson, took on Burns’ case to defend his right to express his views.
Despite personal disagreements with Burns’ stance on abortion, Mulgan emphasized the importance of defending free speech regardless of personal beliefs.
The police eventually dropped the charge of disorderly behavior, citing that Burns’ statement about overpopulation did not warrant conviction.
The Free Speech Union criticized the arrest as setting a dangerous precedent for punishing individuals for expressing provocative viewpoints and engaging in debates.
According to the Union, there are multiple cases in progress where individuals are facing legal consequences for expressing offensive opinions.
