Sam Tunick is facing unjust federal charges following a detention by CBP/DHS last year. As the Trump administration ramps up repression against anything they deem as dissent, Sam has been caught in the crosshairs of their newest attack on digital privacy. We call on everyone to support Sam and his case, as it will set vital precedent for us all.

What Happened?

Sam was stopped for interrogation at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson airport on 24 January last year, after vacationing in the Dominican Republic, spent whale-watching and enjoying nature on a friend's boat. Shockingly, federal authorities had put him on a terrorism watchlist because of his alleged association with the movement against Cop City. He did not know that a homeland security agent had circulated an email three hours before with his name and photo, saying he was being investigated for “suspected terrorism activities”.

When Tunick arrived in Atlanta, an agent took him to a room with a table, several chairs and a camera and microphone, and several agents began a “secondary inspection”. They asked personal questions about his life, about random legal concerns entirely unconnected to him, and denied him his lawyer despite his four requests. They attempted to pressure, intimidate, and coerce him for hours, repeatedly demanding he unlock his phone.

During this detention, the state alleges he entered a "duress password" in his phone. This is a legal and official feature of the operating system Graphene, which provides a privacy focused alternative to the phones run by big tech. The feature simply erases the decryption keys that enable the phone to be unlocked, with or without the passcode. Now, they've charged him with a little-known US federal statute that makes it a crime to destroy property in an effort to prevent it from being seized. This charge carries the potential of a five year sentence in a federal penitentiary.

But Sam was never presented a warrant. He faces no charges other than these. This is an obvious attempt from Trump's DoJ to punish someone for their suspected political beliefs and to erode the little protections we are able to carve out in our constantly surveiled lives.

What's Next?

Sam had an evidentiary hearing this July, and the case is slowly proceeding. Right now, the focus is on building up attention and getting the word out. We are fundraising to pay for potential legal fines and other future costs that Sam may incur relating to his charges. Much of the funds will also be used to support Sam as he navigates the barriers to stable work and housing created by these charges. Excess funds may be used to support other political defendants and prisoners as needed.

Sam is a great friend-- always there when you need him. He plays drums in the local Atlanta hardcore scene. During his recent house arrest, he got really good at playing Go and making yogurt. He has a hundred watt smile. We thank you for every dollar you can put into keeping him out here, free, with his friends and loved ones

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For more information about the case:

Linktr.ee/LetSamGo

For press and other inquiries:

FreeSamCommittee@proton.me