United States v. Obrien

On the morning of March 31, 1966, David Paul OBrien and three companions burned their Selective Service registration certificates on the steps of the South Boston Courthouse. A sizable crowd, including several agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, witnessed the event. Immediately after the burning, members of the crowd began attacking OBrien and his companions. An FBI agent ushered OBrien to safety inside the courthouse. After he was advised of his right to counsel and to silence, OBrien stated to FBI agents that he had burned his registration certificate because of his beliefs, knowing that he was violating federal law. He produced the charred remains of the certificate, which, with his consent, were photographed.