COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo.—A judge declared a mistrial Friday in the case of seven anti-war activists arrested during a St. Patrick’s Day parade.
Jurors said they could not reach a verdict.
The activists had been in municipal court on misdemeanor counts of obstructing a passage or assembly, which is punishable with a $500 fine and 90 days in jail. City prosecutor Scott Patlin said no decision had been made on whether to seek a retrial.
Members of the Pikes Peak Justice and Peace Commission had received a permit to participate in the parade under the name of a business owned by a member. Parade officials asked police to remove the activists after the marchers held anti-war banners.
Parade organizer John O’Donnell testified Thursday that the parade policy prohibits “social issues” and that he was concerned the activists’ anti-war message might result in retaliation.
Activists were accused of failing to disperse, but their attorney said they were not trying to block the parade.
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Information from: The Gazette,
