Tangipahoa Parish Resident Challenges Facebook Post Arrest as Unconstitutional

Tangipahoa Parish Man’s Arrest Sparks First Amendment Debate

Arden Wells, a 70-year-old resident of Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana, claims his arrest over a Facebook post in July violated his First Amendment rights. The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office arrested Wells, accusing him of ‘Terrorizing’ for allegedly posting false claims concerning an inmate escape from the parish jail on June 24, 2025, despite no such escape occurring.

Controversial Arrest and Free Speech Issues

Wells frequently used his social media presence, with over 10,000 followers, to criticize Sheriff Gerald Sticker’s performance. A particular post on June 24 stated, “Deputies have blocked streets & a helicopter is flying over the jail, it appears a prisoner has escaped from the TPSO jail!” Wells was arrested a month later, which he questions, wondering why such a delay occurred if he was considered a threat. He argues the arrest was unconstitutional, highlighting the importance of free speech, even if it includes unpopular opinions.

Legal Analysis and Ongoing Investigation

The Tangipahoa Parish District Attorney’s office, led by Scott Perrilloux, is still screening Wells’ case, and decisions on charges remain pending. Constitutional law expert Dane Ciolino noted that prosecutors must prove Wells intended to terrorize the public, a challenging endeavor given his adversarial stance towards Sticker. Ciolino remarked that the post, in context, was unlikely to incite immediate public danger, bringing legitimate free speech concerns into question.

Implications of the Case

Terrorizing, a charge that could lead to a 15-year prison sentence, places significant focus on Wells’ intent and the broader implications for free speech rights. Wells continues to argue that his arrest represents a breach of his constitutional rights and plans to pursue legal action against the sheriff’s office.

• Incident: False Facebook post about jail escape
• Defendant: Arden Wells
• Charge: ‘Terrorizing’
• Potential Sentence: Up to 15 years
• Current Status: Under legal review

As this case unfolds, it continues to spotlight the delicate balance between maintaining public order and protecting individual free speech rights within the community.