The U.S. Justice Department is asking a judge to dismiss a lawsuit by Insane Clown Posse, which objects to a report that describes its fans as a dangerous gang.
The government says the rap-metal duo from the Detroit area and its fans have no standing to sue. It also says it’s not liable for any problems caused by law enforcement groups that might use information in the 2011 FBI report.
A Detroit federal judge holds a hearing Monday.
The lawsuit says the gang designation violates rights of free speech and due process. Joseph Bruce, known as Violent J, and Joseph Utsler, known as Shaggy 2 Dope, say they’re losing fans because of the report.
They say their fans, known as Juggalos, are like a family, not a gang.
