Lawsuit Filed Over First Amendment Violations

High School Photographer Files Federal Lawsuit Over First Amendment Violations

March 23, 1981

MARIEMONT, OHIO – A high school student and aspiring photojournalist has filed a federal lawsuit against two school administrators, alleging they violated his First Amendment rights after he photographed striking teachers on the picket line. The lawsuit, backed by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), raises serious concerns about press freedom and student journalism.

The lawsuit, James Douglass DeCamp v. Keith Bihn and Donald R. Thompson, was filed in response to alleged threats made by Mariemont High School Principal Keith Bihn and Superintendent Donald R. Thompson. According to court documents, DeCamp, a senior at the school and a freelance photographer, captured images of a fellow student on the picket line during the Mariemont teachers’ strike. The photos were later published in the Cincinnati Enquirer, sparking immediate backlash from school officials.

DeCamp claims that following the publication, Principal Bihn and Superintendent Thompson warned him that if he published any additional photographs related to the strike, he would face arrest. In response, DeCamp sought the support of the ACLU, which quickly condemned the threats as a violation of DeCamp’s constitutional rights.

ACLU Defends Student Press Rights

“This is a clear-cut case of school officials attempting to suppress free speech,” said ACLU Executive Director Margie Robertson. “Mr. DeCamp was engaging in lawful journalistic activity, and the threats made against him represent an unconstitutional attempt to censor the press. The First Amendment protects all journalists—whether they are professionals or students.”

Legal experts suggest that the case could set a precedent for the rights of student journalists, particularly when covering controversial events. While school administrators often have authority over student-run publications, courts have generally ruled that students retain their First Amendment rights outside of school-sponsored activities.

School Officials Silent on Allegations

Attempts to reach Principal Bihn and Superintendent Thompson for comment have been unsuccessful. However, sources close to the administration suggest that their concerns stemmed from a desire to prevent further disruptions during an already contentious teachers’ strike.

The Mariemont teachers’ strike has been a point of tension within the community, with educators demanding better wages and working conditions. The administration’s handling of the situation including the firing of more than 50 teachers, has drawn criticism, and DeCamp’s lawsuit adds another layer of controversy.

Potential Legal Ramifications

DeCamp’s legal team is seeking damages and a formal acknowledgment that his rights were violated. As the case moves forward, it could have major implications for student press protections in public schools across the country.

“This isn’t just about me,” DeCamp stated. “It’s about every student journalist who wants to report the truth without fear of punishment.”

As the lawsuit progresses, legal analysts predict it could serve as an important test of how far school officials can go in restricting student expression. If successful, it may reinforce protections for young journalists nationwide and serve as a warning to administrators who attempt to suppress press freedoms.

The case is expected to be heard in federal court later this week.