Imagine finding yourself in a position where protesting is not just seen as a dumb idea, but some activity actively against the law. This was what happened to North Carolina resident and veteran, Jay Carey, who took a trip to Lafayette Park to protest the — at the time — new executive order issued by President Donald Trump barring flag burning over claims it’s “likely to incite imminent lawless action.”

He was arrested and attempted to be used as an example even if his charges weren’t directly tied to the order. Come recent days, though, and Carey’s potential time behind bars looks like a distant, if not chilling, memory as feds have moved to dismiss the charges.

To be clear, burning a flag is not necessarily something everyone should do, however, in his case, this was staunchly an act of protest, something the government cannot muzzle, as it falls under freedom of speech and freedom of expression found within the First Amendment.

“I set out to demonstrate that the First Amendment is sacred and that no administration has the right to supersede our constitutional rights. I was targeted for federal prosecution because of that. I am glad to stand with all those who are fighting for our fundamental rights and hope that this victory can help the next person who takes a stand.”