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| Davis |
One month before earning 9% of the votes in the recent 44th ward aldermanic election, Scott M. Davis was arrested for allegedly crossing into a CTA station after refusing to submit to a random bag screening, according to court records.
Police say they tried to examine Davis’ bag near the Merchandise Mart CTA turnstiles shortly before 6PM on January 22. But, Davis refused to to allow the search because “he felt the screening was a violation of his rights,” police say.
After police informed Davis that attempting to board after declining the search would result in arrest, they say they cited case law that upheld the constitutionality of such searches. At that point, police say, Davis crossed through the turnstile, apparently intending to board a train.
Davis was detained and officers say they tried to resolve the matter by simply issuing a ticket, but Davis “refused to comply with the with the terms of the [citation] and said he would not sign [it].” Cops say Davis again stated that he would continue to attempt to board the train.
He was then arrested and charged with disorderly conduct and criminal trespass to state-supported land. Prosecutors are offering to drop the charges if “certain conditions” are met. He’s due back in court on Thursday.
Davis offered no comment today as the case remains unresolved.
Chicago police began the random screening program four months ago. They say Davis is the only person to be arrested.
