SAUK RAPIDS - A Sauk Rapids artist is suing the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security after they issued cease-and desist notes against his online merchandise.

Dan McCall runs libertymaniacs.com a site that sells mugs, t-shirts, and posters that he designs, often with satirical messages towards the government.

McCall says he started the business about 10 years ago:

With the Edward Snowden release of NSA records, McCall created a design paired with the NSA's official seal on T-shirts with the slogans: "Peeping while you're sleeping" and "The only part of the government that actually listens"

McCall was told by his manufacturer this summer that they had been contacted by copyright lawyers to take down the design with the the logo. The NSA and DHS claimed that there are laws that prohibit people from doing anything with their logo.

McCall decided to sue the NSA and DHS this week in response, claiming that the agencies are violating his first amendment rights. McCall adds that many are irritated with what the NSA is doing:

McCall says he plans to continue doing what he's been doing:

McCall is a Sauk Rapids resident and  2001 St. Cloud State graduate. You can find the merchandise and additional information on the designs on the Liberty Maniacs website.

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