Hateful symbols removed from N.J. home after months of complaints from neighbors

"Every single neighbor who see here have all complained to the cops. Police have repeatedly told them the man's actions are protected by the First Amendment, but the neighbor felt the display went beyond First Amendment rights. Having a swastika? And then having my picture and my sister's picture with our names on there, and nothing can be done?"

"The fact that this resident has chosen to display such hateful imagery on his own property - and that it is protected under the First Amendment - is a disgrace. While the law may protect an individual's right to express these views, it does not reflect the values of our community. Hate has no home here."

"The First Amendment does broadly protect offensive speech. The law can punish hate only when it crosses into a threat."

Neighbors in Woodland Park, New Jersey have complained to police for months about hateful symbols displayed on a home, including swastikas and messages like "the only good cop is a dead 1." The symbols appear on windows, doors, and a tarp. Authorities confirmed the display is protected speech under the First Amendment, though the mayor called it a disgrace that does not reflect community values. Neighbors, including those whose photographs were displayed with their names, expressed frustration that nothing could be done legally. The homeowner has begun removing some images following media attention.

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