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(Worcester, Massachusetts) A Worcester pastor is suing the city accusing it of violating his constitutional rights after police sent him a bill for the cost of providing security for a "Mr. Heterosexual Contest".
Rev. Thomas Crouse - who preaches that homosexuality is a sin - organized the contest to promote the heterosexual lifestyle.
"Mr. Heterosexual 2006 — A Celebration of God’s Design" drew heavy criticism from LGBT civil rights groups, local politicians and the Human Rights Commission.
As opposition mounted Crouse asked for five police officers to provide security, but after Police Chief Gary J. Gemme met with Norma Sandison, executive director of Mechanics Hall the security detail was beefed up to 20 officers.
A handful of protesters demonstrated outside the hall on Feb 18 as the event went on and the number of people inside the hall was reportedly sparse.
When Rev. Crouse got the bill for the police detail he decided to go to court.
Supported by the Alliance Defense Fund, an Arizona legal group that fights against LGBT issues across the country, Crouse says in his lawsuit that his constitutional right to free speech was violated by the heavy police presence. Crouse also claims that police were responsible for the low turnout at the event.
His suit demands reimbursement for unspecified damages, legal fees and asks for an injunction against future fees should Crouse decide to hold other events in Worcester.
A spokesperson for Chief Gemme said the suit is without merit, noting that it was the hall that had asked for a bigger police presence.
Gay rights groups suggest Crouse is just seeking publicity.
©365Gay.com 2006
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