April 7, 1969: OK To Hide Porn Under The Bed

Forty years ago, on this date in 1969: The Supreme Court unanimously struck down laws prohibiting private possession of "obscene material."

Stanley v. Georgia, examined a police search of the Georgia home of Robert Eli Stanley to seize alleged betting paraphernalia. Instead, they confiscated three reels of porn and charged Stanley with "possession of obscene materials," a crime under state law. The conviction was upheld by the Supreme Court of Georgia.

The Supreme Court unanimously overturned the decision and invalidated all state laws that forbid private possession of materials judged obscene, on the grounds of the 1st and 14th Amendments.

Well, that's a relief. I was afraid of having to light a giant bonfire tonight...