Drop Charges Against Mr Faraone and Mr Handrigan

Dear Chief Hoxsie,

Many of us enjoy freedom of speech via the internet among many  other forms of civil disobedience. We have recently learned through the Rhode Island ACLU that Themistocles Faraone and Michael Handrigan have been charged with Cyber Bullying for ranting and raving about public figures via website comments.

There are thousands of us that do this frequently through forums and social media. We feel it is healthy for people to vent their frustrations about political figures,particular issues or personal matters in order to connect and help one another, even if offensive words are used.

We do not agree that these gentlemen are facing charges for what they have vented via the Internet. It has been shown that no considerable threats have been made, nor has there been a significant pattern of harassment.

It appears the laws are being used against these men for a personal matter that may be addressed in Civil court. Continuing with the charges could have negative consequences for the rest of us that enjoy our freedom of speech as well.

 We would appreciate your efforts to see that the charges are dropped.

Thank you for your consideration.