FAIRHOPE — Dozens of protesters showed up on Wednesday ahead of the municipal court trial of Jeanna Renae Gamble.
Gamble is charged with disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, violation of a municipal code and giving officers a false name after she was arrested last October during an Indivisible No Kings protest.
Gamble, wearing an inflatable penis costume and holding a sign saying, “No Dick Tator,” was asked by police to remove the costume or leave. Police said they received complaints from passersby. She refused to remove the costume and was taken into custody. During the arrest, Gamble was seen on body-worn camera footage telling officers her name was “Antifa.”
BODYCAM VIDEO: Penis protester calls herself 'Antifa'; Attorney calls Fairhope arrest unlawful
However, Gamble’s attorney, David Gespass, said the First Amendment protected Gamble's costume and her actions. He said the officer had no right to order his client to leave the area.
When Gespass arrived for the trial on Wednesday, he told 1819 News the case “depends on if the judge sides with the Constitution.”
A crowd of around 40 showed up in support of Gamble.
Fairhope Municipal Judge Haymes Snedeker will preside over the bench trial at 2 p.m. on Wednesday.
Gamble is considered innocent until proven guilty.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email [email protected].
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every day or become a member to gain access to exclusive content and 1819 News merch.
