Va. DMV Deems “ICUHAJI” License Plate Offensive

Army veteran says free speech violated

An Army veteran is appealing a Virginia Department of Motor Vehicle's decision that deemed his license plate offensive.

The Virginian-Pilot reports that the DMV revoked Chesapeake, Va., resident Sean Bujno's license plate last month. It reads "ICUHAJI," which can be read as "I see you, Haji."

In court documents, he contends DMV Commissioner Richard Holcomb violated his free-speech and due process rights.

Bujno's attorney, Andrew Meyer, says the plate was on his client's car for more than four years before he was asked to return it. He says it wasn't meant to be offensive, but rather to support soldiers who have served in Iraq.

DMV spokeswoman Melanie Stokes declined to comment, citing privacy laws. In general, she says personalized tag requests are screened to ensure they don't violate guidelines.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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