DC Settles Lawsuit with Man Detained for Playing 'Imperial March' Near National Guard Troops

The District of Columbia has agreed to settle a lawsuit filed by Sam O'Hara, who was detained in September 2025 after following Ohio National Guardsmen and playing the "Imperial March" from Star Wars. The settlement terms were not disclosed, but it marks an acknowledgment that O'Hara's First Amendment rights may have been violated during his encounter with law enforcement.

O'Hara had previously filed a lawsuit against Sgt. Devon Beck of the National Guard, several Metropolitan Police Department officers, and the District of Columbia itself. According to the complaint, O'Hara was warned by a sergeant that he would be detained if he continued playing the ominous theme music while following the patrol. Despite his repeated actions in previous weeks without incident, this time led to his arrest for 15-20 minutes before being released uncharged.

The American Civil Liberties Union of the District of Columbia supported O'Hara's legal challenge, arguing that his constitutional rights were infringed upon by the aggressive response from law enforcement. The settlement is seen as a significant victory for free speech advocates and those concerned about overreach in public safety measures during times of heightened security presence.

O'Hara expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating that it underscores the importance of defending constitutional freedoms even when faced with opposition from authorities who might prefer silence on certain issues.