WOOD v. MOSS

Legal Principle at Issue

Did the Secret Service unconstitutionally discriminate against protestors when asking one group to leave while allowing another to stay?

Action

Reversed. Petitioning party received a favorable disposition.

Facts/Syllabus

Protesters gathered outside of President Bush's hotel in Oregon while he sought reelection. Protesters alleged that the Secret Service agents gave only those protesting Bush's policies the order to relocate, allowing those supporting the President to stay. The Court found that the Secret Service was eligible for qualified immunity, and furthermore, the Secret Service did not break the law while protecting the President.

Importance of Case

The Secret Service did not impose a viewpoint discrimination while acting to protect the president.