
<a href="https://reason.com/2025/07/23/police-officer-threatens-to-run-over-protester-for-filming-on-the-sidewalk/" target="_blank">View original image source</a>.
A recent showdown in Allentown, Pennsylvania, has put a dramatic twist on the concept of civil rights and police accountability. Phil Rishel, a civilian protester, was simply filming officers from a public sidewalk when Officer Dean Flyte decided it was time for a high-speed chase—on the sidewalk, no less! The officer drove his cruiser straight toward Rishel, threatening to run him over while blaring the siren like a scene straight out of a low-budget action movie. It seems one officer’s antics have sparked a whirlwind of controversy, proving that nothing says “professionalism” like chasing down someone with a camera.
Rather than retreating in embarrassment, Flyte doubled down on his bad behavior by threatening to cite Rishel for loitering. To make matters worse, Sergeant Christopher Stephenson joined the fun, insisting that filming police isn’t protected under the First Amendment in Pennsylvania. Seriously, when did cops stop keeping up with the law? It looks like Rishel decided enough was enough and is now pursuing legal action against the city and both officers, which might just teach them a lesson or two about public rights. It’s a wild ride where the truth often feels like the plot twist in a movie!
So, the question remains: When have you felt the need to stand your ground against authority? Have you ever been in a situation where you felt your rights were being threatened? This story leaves plenty of room for thought and conversation, so jump in and let’s hear your take!
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