In Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana, a resident has raised concerns regarding his arrest, claiming it was a violation of his First Amendment rights. Arden Wells, 70, was arrested by the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) in July for charges of ‘Terrorizing’ after allegedly posting false information on Facebook about a jail escape on June 24, 2025. The sheriff’s department has emphasized that creating unnecessary panic through false posts, similar to falsely shouting ‘fire’ in a theater, is not acceptable behavior.
Wells, a vocal critic of Sheriff Gerald Sticker, has frequently used social media to voice his dissatisfaction with the sheriff’s performance and policies. The controversial Facebook post by Wells claimed streets were blocked and a helicopter hovered above the jail, indicating an escape, which was unsubstantiated. The post gained considerable attention, raising questions about its impact on public perception and safety.
Despite his arrest, Wells insists that he was unaware the escape was untrue and argues that his post did not incite public fear, stating that visible police activity would have already alerted residents without the need for his commentary. Wells viewed his detainment as unconstitutional and defended his right to express dissenting opinions, even those that may not be welcomed by authorities.
The legal proceedings in this case are ongoing. Tangipahoa Parish District Attorney Scott Perrilloux disclosed that no definitive decision on charges has been reached as the case undergoes continued evaluation. Constitutional law expert Dane Ciolino remarked that Wells’ intention to terrorize, if any, would be challenging to establish legally, suggesting Wells’ arrest might conflict with First Amendment protections.
Sheriff Sticker abstained from commenting on the case due to its pending judicial status. Wells has expressed his intent to pursue legal action against the sheriff’s office following the resolution of his criminal case.
The incident highlights ongoing debates about free speech and its boundaries, particularly in the age of social media, where misinformation can swiftly spread and escalate tensions. As this case progresses, it underscores the balance between protecting public safety and preserving individual rights to expression.