Protester Arrested at Trump Rally: Disorderly Conduct Charges Filed

Stephen A. Weiss, a 36-year-old Pittsburgh resident, was arrested at a Trump rally in Johnstown, PA, for attempting to hang a protest banner. Charged with disorderly conduct and resisting arrest, Weiss also faces charges for disrupting a public meeting. The incident occurred amidst heightened security measures at Trump rallies.

Stephen A. Weiss, a 36-year-old from Pittsburgh, was apprehended during a campaign rally for Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, last week. Johnstown Police Chief Richard Pritchard confirmed that Weiss intended to display a protest banner against Trump's policies.

Misdemeanor charges, including disorderly conduct and resisting arrest, have been filed against Weiss. The police chief noted that the banner's content remained unknown as arena staff discarded it. Weiss allegedly faked a foot injury and concealed a tube of glue in a crutch to execute his plan. He refused to comment when contacted, citing ongoing legal consultations.

According to an affidavit, Weiss disrupted the event by running onto the arena floor and creating a scene near the media stage, necessitating physical force for police to restrain him. Authorities reported that Weiss was questioned by the Secret Service and released the same night, with a court hearing scheduled for October 9. The Trump campaign has yet to comment on the incident.

(With inputs from agencies.)