Police arrest 2 at second-annual Middletown Pride event downtown

Two people were arrested Friday night at Middletown's second annual Pride event, held downtown.

>> Middletown Pride event is about respect, people say

Middletown police Sgt. Cris Kelly said one is accused of using a noise-producing instrument (like a megaphone) and the other is accused of assault.

John Williams, a Middletown resident described by people as a street preacher, is charged with misdemeanor harassment, Kelly said. Williams is accused of using the device to shout at event participants.

Williams has been warned in the past, at other events, about using the noise-projection device, the sergeant said.

Paris Waller, also of Middletown, is accused of assault after police said she punched a protester, Sgt. Kelly said.

Williams bonded out of jail and Waller was released on her promise to show up in court. Both are to appear in court Monday morning.

The event continues until 11 p.m. and features a Pride flag giveaway, Pride Ride Bicycle Parade, Pride Drag Show and Gender Fluid Fashion Shows, Silent Disco and screening of the Greatest Showman.

Organizers said the party will continue in local eateries and bars until 2 a.m. Saturday.