Free Speech Put to Test in Monmouth County

Charges against a Monmouth County man who refused to cease distributing religious leaflets at the Monmouth Mall puts Free Speech Rights to the test. According to the Asbury Park Press, 57-year-old retired police officer David Wells of Oakhurst was charged with Defiant Trespass on November 5th but he may have legal standing.

A 1994 New Jersey Supreme court decision says malls must make reasonable accommodations to allow citizens to distribute leaflets both inside and outside malls.

A petition to the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, as well as the mall's owners has been started on well's behalf compelling Vornado Reality to allow free speech and change their policies.