Is It Illegal in Oklahoma to Flip Off a Police Officer?

First let me say I in no way endorse or condone this type of behavior unless, of course, it's warranted and provoked by unjust and disrespectful treatment. The question is this "Is it illegal to flip off the police in Oklahoma?"

This was a recent topic of discussion at the water cooler and due to the raging debate between both sides, a deep dive into the law for answers seems appropriate.

Could giving an obscene gesture and displaying a defiant middle finger to law enforcement get you arrested and charged with some type of misdemeanor or other violation?

Can you be fined or jailed for doing so?

The quick answer to the question is no. It is not illegal to flip off a cop in Oklahoma. To go a step further, it's viewed as protected "free speech" and 100% backed by the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled on this very subject. They declared that flipping the middle finger to police, or really anyone else regardless of public status is protected free speech.

Police cannot arrest someone for flipping the bird.

Because this very issue has been heard before the U.S. Supreme Court, their ruling makes this decision legal and lawful nationwide. Regardless of state laws, a ruling from the SCOTUS concerning the constitutionality of something is final in all 50 states... But just because you have the right, doesn't make it right.

Watch the video below to see a teen get arrested, then released for flipping off the police

I have to say that what little interactions I've had with police have all been positive, even when getting a traffic ticket. I can't recall ever having an issue or complaint with an officer in my adulthood. I've never had a reason to get upset or flip the bird, but I know someone who did.

That's how this whole topic came up. We were talking about a recent situation and the legality of the middle finger and using vulgar language at police officers came up.

Again, I don't condone this type of behavior, unless provoked. Even then it can be a lot more effective to remain calm and unrattled, which seems to intimidate and disturb most people, especially if they're trying to get a reaction out of you. But that's just me.