Border Patrol Officer Testifies on Sandwich-Throwing Incident in DC

The trial of Sean Dunn, charged with misdemeanor assault for throwing a sandwich at a Border Patrol officer, began in Washington, DC, this week. The incident took place during a summer filled with tension over federal law enforcement in the city.

Details of the Incident

During the trial, Dunn’s attorney, Julia Gatto, stated that the government had escalated a simple act of throwing a sandwich into a federal criminal case. She expressed her belief that the prosecution was exaggerated considering the incident involved just a sandwich. In her opening statement, she acknowledged that Dunn’s behavior stemmed from frustration with the federal law enforcement presence in the city.

Testimony from the Border Patrol Officer

Officers provided their accounts of the incident. Greg Lairmore, the Border Patrol officer involved, described Dunn as visibly upset and as someone who started yelling obscenities. Lairmore testified that Dunn became “red faced and enraged” after leaving a Subway restaurant. He recounted how the sandwich hit him in the chest, producing a distinct smell of onions and mustard.

Legal Perspectives on the Case

The defense and prosecution agree on the facts but differ on the interpretation of Dunn’s actions. Assistant US Attorney John Parron argued that throwing objects in anger is not acceptable behavior. He emphasized the importance of resolving disputes verbally rather than through physical actions.

Defense Arguments

• Gatto claimed the sandwich thrower’s action was merely an emotional response, comparing it to an “exclamation mark” after a verbal outburst.
• She highlighted Dunn’s opposition to the current federal enforcement policies, describing them as “fascist.”
• Gatto insisted that the prosecution would not meet the burden of proof for a conviction on assault charges.

Contextual Significance

This trial reflects broader community tensions arising from federal actions during the summer. Many residents in DC have protested against the involvement of federal troops in local law enforcement. Recently, another DC resident was acquitted for alleged assault in a similar situation involving immigration-related arrests.

Future Proceedings

The trial is anticipated to conclude within two days, with Judge Carl Nichols referring to it as potentially the “simplest case.” The jury is tasked with determining whether Dunn’s sandwich-throwing qualifies as a forcible assault under the law.