Driver Charged in Downtown Cedar Rapids Roe v. Wade Protest
The early part of the summer across the United States was super-charged with tensions after the Supreme Court overturned the long-standing Roe vs. Wade decision, allowing states to make their own abortion laws.
A June protest in downtown Cedar Rapids became especially hostile after a driver of a pickup was alleged to have "run over" a group of peaceful protesters in the vicinity of 8th Ave. and 2nd St. SE. Read more on our local coverage of this incident here.
Now, two months later, KCRG says the Cedar Rapids Police Department has officially filed charges against the driver. They charge 53-year-old David Alan Huston with approaching pedestrians in his vehicle.
Although Mr. Huston had a green light, officials say he aggressively approached protestors. Police say video evidence indicates other vehicles in the area “appear to simply wait for the protesters".
Officials say there is "no known evidence" that this incident was politically motivated on the part of Houston. Houston is being charged with Assault by Use or Display of a Dangerous Weapon (Vehicle) and Leaving the Scene of a Personal Injury Accident and the case will be turned over to the Black Hawk County courthouse which will prosecute the case.
A media release obtained by this radio station from the Black Hawk County Sherriff's Office states:
In order to maintain the integrity of the trial process my office will not be commenting further on the facts of this case until the conclusion of the proceedings.
We will keep you updated on any further developments.