United States v. Spock

ALDRICH, Chief Judge.

These are appeals by four defendants1 convicted under a single count indictment for conspiracy. We reverse.

As is well known, the war in Vietnam and the draft to support it have engendered considerable animosity and frustration. In August 1967 a number of academic, clerical, and professional persons discussed the need of more vigorous opposition to governmental policies. From their eventually consolidated efforts came a document entitled “A Call to Resist Illegitimate Authority” (hereinafter the Call) and a cover letter requesting signatures and support. The letter was…