A recent street evangelism event near the American Airlines Center has raised free speech rights concerns after a Dallas preacher was briefly detained by police. Landon Thurman, leader of the Testimonies of God ministry, said his group was peacefully preaching on a public sidewalk during a Dallas Mavericks game on December 18. The ministry claims the detainment represents a troubling overreach by authorities and a potential violation of constitutional protections.
Dispute Over Sidewalk Preaching Turns Tense
According to Thurman, the group was quoting Romans 1 and discussing salvation when a member, Will Dieterich, stood on the edge of a planter. Officers claimed that portion was part of the arena property and soon intervened. Police say the initial response was due to a complaint about loudspeaker volume, allegedly violating a city noise ordinance. Officers reportedly asked the group to lower the volume and move across the street, but Thurman objected, asserting their location was public space.
Police Detain Two Preachers Without Arrest
Thurman and Dieterich were handcuffed after refusing to leave the sidewalk. A video shared online shows officers stating they were being arrested for “interference with public duties.” However, no police vehicle arrived, and Dallas police later said the men were only “temporarily detained for officer safety.” No further details were provided about the decision not to arrest them.
Evangelists Continue Ministry Despite Police Encounter
Despite the confrontation, the group continued preaching after the officers left. On December 21, the ministry posted a video of the incident and stated that its outreach remained effective. They reported meaningful conversations, Bible distributions, and said that “Christ was exalted.” Supporters applauded their perseverance, viewing the incident as an example of faith under pressure.
Supporters Cite Constitutional Concerns, Critics Cite Public Disruption
Supporters argue that police overstepped their authority and stifled constitutionally protected speech. They view the detainment as a warning sign for religious liberty. However, critics say enforcement of noise ordinances and property boundaries is necessary in crowded public spaces. The Dallas Police Department has not announced any further action.
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Dallas Street Preacher Temporarily Detained During Public Evangelism Outside Arena
Photo by David Goldman on Unsplash
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