Reading Man Unlawfully Arrested While Peacefully Protesting Gay Pride Event
Rep. Dave Zimmerman (R-Lancaster/Berks) categorically denounced the shameful police action violating an individual’s right to free speech that took place last weekend in City of Reading.
Zimmerman issued the following statement:
“On Saturday morning, June 3rd, Damon Atkins was unlawfully arrested while peacefully protesting a gay pride event in Reading, PA. Mr. Atkins was peacefully exercising his First Amendment rights which include freedom of religion, freedom of speech, and the right to peaceably assemble.
“This shameful arrest of Mr. Atkins was a disgraceful violation of his constitutional rights and is an abuse of justice.
“The 1st Amendment guarantees the unalienable rights given to us by God and Mr. Atkins was denied these rights.
“We are grateful that the criminal charges brought against Mr. Atkins have since been withdrawn by the District Attorney’s Office, but the grievous violations of constitutional rights have already been committed.
“I believe the unlawful arrest could open up the City of Reading and their police department to legal action in the future.
“Such disgraceful arrests must never be repeated.”
Representative Dave Zimmerman
99th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Charles Lardner
717.260.6137
clardner@pahousegop.com
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