Evangelist Challenges Ban On Leafleting Near California Courthouse

A federal lawsuit was filed in Los Angeles on Monday by a Christian evangelist challenging the breadth of a rule banning the distribution of leaflets and educational or counseling activities within 100 feet of any courthouse door. The complaint (full text) in Miano v. McCoy, (CD CA, filed 2/8/2010), alleges that the rule, imposed by an administrative general order from the court, has been interpreted by San Fernando Courthouse officials to include a ban on activities within 100 feet of two unused emergency exits. This results in evangelist Anthony Miano being unable to approach individuals to discuss religion or hand them a leaflet anywhere on the entire sidewalk closest to the courthouse. The lawsuit asks for a declaratory judgment and injunction finding that the ban violates the free expression, due process and equal protection clauses of the U.S. Constitution. It also seeks nominal damages, costs and attorneys' fees. Alliance Defense Fund issued a release announcing the filing of the case.