Ohio Blogger Faces Trial Over Explicit Shrek Image Sent to State Senator
DJ Byrnes, a political blogger, is accused of telecommunications harassment for sending an explicit cartoon image to Sen. Jerry Cirino, a case that raises questions about free speech.
An Ohio political blogger is set to go to trial on charges of telecommunications harassment after allegedly sending an explicit image of the cartoon character Shrek to a Republican state senator. DJ Byrnes, 39, a Substack writer known as The Rooster who covers local politics, faces legal proceedings stemming from an incident that occurred on June 1.
Byrnes was arrested on a warrant for harassment. Court documents filed by Byrnes' legal team identified the complainant as State Sen. Jerry Cirino. Byrnes had previously covered Cirino extensively during the senator's unsuccessful bid for Ohio Senate presidency. Court filings indicate Byrnes admitted to texting Cirino, whom he had nicknamed "Young Mussolini," after Cirino withdrew from the race.
The text message from Byrnes to Cirino read: “Good to see you finally made your humiliation public, Young Mussolini. THE PATRIOTS CAUCUS sends its regards!!!!!!!!!!!” Attached to this message was a graphic image of Shrek, depicted naked and in a compromising pose. Byrnes, in a motion to dismiss the case, argued that the image was part of a "longstanding internet meme."
Cirino's response to the message, as documented in court records, was: “I don’t know who this is but I am certain you are a moron.” An email allegedly sent by Cirino to a local police chief complaining about the "disgusting picture" was also included in Byrnes' motion.
Byrnes has pleaded not guilty to the charge. His defense attorneys argued for dismissal, asserting that his actions were protected under the First Amendment. This argument was unsuccessful, and the case is proceeding to trial. Representatives for Byrnes and Cirino have not immediately responded to requests for comment.