Opinion ID: 4538050
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: R.D.’s As-Applied Challenge

Text: ¶64 It is unclear from the record what standard the trial court applied in concluding that R.D.’s “particular type of speech is not protected under the First Amendment.” The court heard argument from counsel but took no evidence on that question. Moreover, the trial transcript reveals that the court did not reconsider R.D.’s constitutional argument at the close of the prosecution’s case or in the final ruling adjudicating R.D. delinquent. And in judging R.D.’s tweets against the elements of section 18-9-111(1)(e), the trial court actively disregarded testimony suggesting that A.C. and J.W. did not take R.D.’s messages seriously, considering their reaction irrelevant under the statute. As stated above, their reaction was a relevant factor to consider under the First Amendment. ¶65 Because we have clarified the test to be used when evaluating whether a statement constitutes a true threat, the trial court is in the best position to review the record, to take further evidence in its discretion, and to reach a conclusion on the matter.