Judge Halts Antifa Protest Trial Over Attorney's Civil Rights T-Shirt
A federal judge in Texas declared a mistrial on Tuesday after a defense lawyer wore a shirt featuring images from the civil rights movement, abruptly delaying a closely watched case where the Trump administration accuses protesters of terrorism. US District Judge Mark Pittman, a Donald Trump appointee, halted jury selection at the Fort Worth courthouse, citing potential bias from the attorney's attire.
Shirt Sparks Judicial Controversy
MarQuetta Clayton, an attorney for one of the defendants, wore a shirt under her blazer displaying leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Shirley Chisholm, along with protest scenes. Judge Pittman claimed the shirt could equate the defendants' actions with the civil rights movement, arguing it sent a political message. He noted that prosecutors would likely object to pro-ICE or pro-Trump imagery in court.
"I don't think I have any choice but to declare a mistrial," said Pittman, who also criticized Clayton for showing an unsubmitted poster to jurors. "This has to be a first in the history of American jurisprudence, I would think."
Case Details and Defense Reactions
The trial involves nine defendants charged after a July 4 protest at an ICE detention center near Fort Worth. Prosecutors allege demonstrators set off fireworks, vandalized property, and injured a police officer, labeling it a coordinated attack by a "North-Texas antifa cell." This marks the first time terrorism charges have been filed against antifa, a loose left-leaning movement.
Defense lawyers unanimously opposed the mistrial, questioning if jurors even saw the shirt and suggesting bias could be addressed during selection. Lead prosecutor Shawn Smith remained neutral, stating he had never encountered such a situation.
Juror and Public Perspectives
Dismissed jurors expressed confusion over the decision. Harrison Stables, 23, said he didn't notice the shirt and it wouldn't have influenced him. Another anonymous juror recognized the imagery but insisted it wouldn't bias his judgment.
Outside the courthouse, supporters gathered with signs and supplies. Lydia Koza, whose wife is a defendant, criticized the ruling: "I struggle to understand how this could be fair or reasonable in this judicial environment."
Background and Judicial History
Before the mistrial, jury questions revealed key case themes, including biases against ICE and Trump, and definitions of protests versus riots. Pittman's decision follows pretrial penalties against defense attorneys, including fines for aggressive motions and residency disputes.
Clayton, who is running for county judge in Texas, declined to comment but affirmed she will continue representing her client. The trial is set to restart with a new jury panel on Monday at 9 a.m., as the case continues to draw national attention for its implications on protest rights and legal precedents.
