To this passage...

I'm not aware of the clause in the First Amendment that exempts police officers from angry criticism. Gates' reaction, if the police report is accurate, may have been inappropriate, but it was understandable, given that he was being accused of breaking into his own home. But if he was arrested simply because Crowley was angry or embarrassed at being mistreated, I don't think that's a defensible reaction.

...Sullivan responds:

Could any Dish readers with legal expertise shed some light on that line between free speech and verbal assault?

Well and good. But this is what I have to say to young black males in America: Do not follow grandpa Gates' example. Such behavior will get you dead quick. The free speech and First Amendment stuff is one thing; your life is another. In a moment of danger, worry about your life and not your rights. This is not about American ideals but about the realities of existing in a country that codes your color with crime and violence. In a moment of danger, dump those rights in the garbage and focus on finding a peaceful way out of the bad situation. An increase of black males who have this understanding will mean an increase of black males who live a long life.