Pennsylvania man arrested for cursing in front of police files free-speech lawsuit
HOUSTON – A western Pennsylvania man arrested for cursing in front of police has filed a lawsuit saying his right to free speech was violated.
The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette newspaper (http://bit.ly/1pVvT8w ) reported Thursday that Richard Pustovrh was arguing with his employers in September 2012 and they called the police. Pustovrh lives in Houston, 30 miles southwest of Pittsburgh.
A complaint says Pustovrh used an obscenity to voice his frustration after a Canonsburg police officer warned him not to.
He was handcuffed and later found guilty of disorderly conduct and obscene language. The obscene-language charge was withdrawn when he appealed.
Pustovrh wants a declaration the police actions were unconstitutional. He’s seeking punitive damages of $100,000.
Canonsburg Police Chief R.T. Bell can’t be reached for comment.
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