Pearson v. City of Stayton

Summary

While standing on a public street corner in Stayton, Ore., Frederick "Caleb" Pearson displayed pro-life signs depicting photos of aborted children without incident. After his activity, Pearson was approached by police and told that his expression was in violation of an "advertising" ordinance. Pearson was also informed that a sign depicting anything "offensive" is unacceptable, and that he would be required to obtain a permit in order to continue exercising his free speech rights, regardless of the content of the sign.