Page v. City of New York (Challenging arrest of a peaceful protestor)

At issue in this case is whether a woman’s First and Fourth Amendment rights were violated when, as a sole protester, she was arrested and detained while standing lawfully on a sidewalk. On Aug. 31, 2004, during the Republican National Convention, Georgianna Page arrived at the Manhattan Hummer dealership to participate in a convention-related protest against the vehicles, only to discover she was the sole protester. While lawfully standing alone at the sidewalk’s curb, Ms. Page was arrested by members of the New York City Police Department for obstructing traffic. Ms. Page was taken to Pier 57, where she was held for hours before being released without any formal charges being filed against her.

On Feb. 15, 2005, the NYCLU filed a complaint on Ms. Page’s behalf. The complaint claims that Ms. Page’s arrest and detention were in violation of, among other things, her First Amendment right to free speech and her Fourth Amendment protection from unlawful searches and seizures. On May 4, 2006, the NYCLU reached a settlement with the city. The city awarded Ms. Page damages and attorney fees. 

S.D.N.Y., Index No. 05 Civ. 2088 (direct)