Former DOJ Employee Acquitted of Sandwich-Throwing Charge at Federal Officer
A former employee of the Department of Justice, Sean Charles Dunn, was acquitted of charges stemming from an incident in which he threw a sandwich at a federal officer. The event occurred in August 2025 in Washington, D.C. Dunn faced serious allegations, including assault and interference with a federal officer.
Acquittal Details
The verdict was delivered after jurors deliberated for approximately seven hours. Following the ruling, Dunn expressed gratitude to his legal team, embracing them in the courtroom.
Statement of Beliefs
After the verdict, Dunn articulated his motivations for the act. He stated, “I believe that I was protecting the rights of immigrants,” referencing the U.S. motto, “E Pluribus Unum.” He emphasized that every life matters, regardless of origin or identity.
Background of the Incident
Dunn was accused of tossing a Subway sandwich at a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer outside a nightclub. His legal team argued that the sandwich was thrown as a symbolic protest against the deployment of the National Guard in the city during President Trump’s administration.
Defense Arguments
- Dunn’s lawyers characterized the act as a “harmless gesture.”
- They claimed it was a method of expressing dissent regarding the National Guard’s presence.
- Defense attorney Julia Gatto asserted that Dunn’s actions were an exercise of free speech.
Prosecution’s Case
Prosecutors contended that political beliefs do not shield individuals from legal consequences. Their arguments focused on the serious nature of the charges against Dunn.
Employment Status
At the time of the incident, Dunn was serving as an international affairs specialist within the criminal division of the Department of Justice. Following his arrest, he was dismissed from his position. Attorney General Pam Bondi publicly cited him as an example of the so-called “Deep State.”
The trial has garnered significant media attention, with aspects of the incident going viral on social media. Dunn’s acquittal has sparked various reactions, with many individuals viewing him as a symbol of protest against federal actions in the capital.
