More than 600 people were fired, suspended, or disciplined for social media posts following the assassination of far-right activist Charlie Kirk in September 2025, according to a Reuters investigation. Now, some of those affected are pursuing legal action, claiming their right to free speech was violated.
Among them is Julie Strebe, a 55-year-old sheriff's deputy from Salem, Missouri. After Kirk was killed by a sniper on a college campus, Strebe posted on Facebook: 'Empathy is not owed to oppressors.' She later commented that Kirk was racist, sexist, and antisemitic. Following public backlash, she was suspended and then fired. Strebe claims her superiors cited her posts made while on duty and a lack of disclaimer, though she disputes the grounds.
A website titled 'Charlie Kirk's Murderers' collated names and personal information of those who posted negatively about Kirk, aiding complaints to employers. The site has since been taken down. Strebe and her husband faced harassment, including a truck parked outside their home with a sign accusing her of supporting the assassination. They have since moved away.
Strebe is among a group suing for wrongful termination, arguing their posts were protected speech. The Dent County sheriff's office declined to comment, citing legal restrictions. Strebe stated, 'This is everything I’ve ever done in my adult life. And they took it from me.'
