Sandwich thrown by protester 'exploded' and left mustard stain on border agent, court hears

November 5, 2025

A Washington DC resident named Sean Dunn is standing trial for misdemeanor assault after throwing a sandwich at a federal immigration officer during protests against President Trump's deployment of National Guard troops to the capital in August. The agent testified that he felt the sandwich impact through his protective vest and was left covered in mustard and onions, while Dunn's defense argues the act was harmless and incapable of causing injury. Prosecutors initially sought felony charges, but a grand jury declined to indict on those more serious allegations.

Who is affected

Sean Dunn, 37, the defendant who is on trial and lost his job as a paralegal at the Department of Justice
Customs and Border Patrol agent Gregory Lairmore, who was struck by the sandwich
Washington DC residents who objected to federal troop deployment in their city
Federal officers deployed to Washington DC by President Trump

What action is being taken

Sean Dunn is standing trial for misdemeanor assault
The government is prosecuting Mr. Dunn through prosecutor John Parron
Agent Gregory Lairmore is testifying against Mr. Dunn in court
Defense lawyer Julia Gatto is defending Mr. Dunn, arguing the sandwich throwing was a harmless gesture

Why it matters

This case highlights tensions between DC residents and federal authority, particularly regarding the deployment of military forces to civilian areas for law enforcement purposes. It raises questions about the boundaries between political protest and criminal conduct, as well as how seriously the justice system should treat non-injurious acts committed during demonstrations. The incident became a viral symbol of resistance to Trump's policies, making it emblematic of broader conflicts over presidential power and local autonomy.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC