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The Embassy Clerk Who Stayed

United States v. Burgman (1949)

Charge: Treason (enemy propaganda broadcasts)Court: U.S. District Court, D.D.C.State: District of ColumbiaDocket: Treason

The facts

An American on his country's embassy staff in the enemy capital chose to stay when war was declared, while other staff left. He then joined the enemy's state broadcaster, writing and recording talks for a secret shortwave station aimed at America. Prosecutors say the talks were meant to lower troop morale and stir discontent with the government. He argues that speeches are free speech, not acts, that he had lost his citizenship, and that he was insane at the time.

You have the facts the court had. Guilty or not guilty? Call it in the game with your friends, then see what the court actually decided. Wrong call, you drink.

Citation: United States v. Burgman, 87 F. Supp. 568 (D.D.C. 1949)

Read more at law.justia.com. The source reveals the outcome.

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