January 24, 2006 | 03:59 AM

In today's edition of the Daily Local News, the editor boldy declares: "West Chester University officials had no right to stop Michael Marcavage and fellow members of Repent America from doing what they were doing."

The editor of the liberal-leaning publication, which serves all of Chester County, Pennsylvania, is voicing his concerns over the ongoing prosecution of Michael Marcavage for refusing to surrender his First Amendment rights near the campus of West Chester University.

The incident occurred during Repent America's annual pro-life evangelism tour in October of 2005 in which Marcavage was displaying a sign with the reality of abortion on a public sidewalk near campus. Subsequently, he was cited by university police for "Defiant Trespass", which is now being prosecuted by the Chester County District Attorney's office. Marcavage faces up to a year in prison and a $2,500 fine.

The editor states in his article called "Free speech comes after a 2-hour wait at West Chester U." that "West Chester University officials should admit their mistake in this case and let Marcavage continue in peace. They should not waste taxpayer dollars fighting a case that they will lose."

"It's time for West Chester University to practice what it teaches. It's time for it to become the place where various viewpoints and ideas are encouraged, not regulated," the editor concludes.