A protester who interrupted former President Donald Trump‘s rally on Friday in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, will face misdemeanor charges, local police confirmed to NBC News on Saturday.
The man, whose identity has not yet been released, will face charges for disorderly conduct, resisting arrest and disrupting a meeting or procession, according to Johnstown Police Sgt. Evan Dabbs.
The charges have not yet been filed, but Dabbs said they are expected to be filed early next week.
It is unclear what the protester’s views were of Trump.
The man jumped over a barricade and hopped onto a press riser and yelled to the former president as Trump was speaking. It was unclear what the protester was saying.
Trump reacted to the scene from the stage, saying, “He is on our side.”
The protest came shortly after Trump criticized journalists, comments that are a routine part of his rallies. Trump has for years sharply criticized the press and attempted to undermine media credibility. Oftentimes, supporters at his rally turn around and boo reporters when the former president unleashes on journalists.
The protester was handcuffed and removed from the rally by security. He was processed and released on Friday, Dabbs said. Dabbs told NBC News he was not involved in the arrest and he did not know the protester’s motive.
No bystanders, media or law enforcement were injured, according to Greg Neugebauer, the district attorney in Cambria County, where Johnstown is located.
“There were no further incidents reported at the event,” Neugebauer told NBC News.
NBC News has reached out to the Trump campaign for comment on the expected charges.
This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Amanda Smith is a dedicated U.S. correspondent with a passion for uncovering the stories that shape the nation. With a background in political science, she provides in-depth analysis and insightful commentary on domestic affairs, ensuring readers are well-informed about the latest developments across the United States.
