It happened back in January 2016. We were still in the early days of the presidential campaign, before the first caucus had even taken place.
Candidate Donald Trump was holding a rally at the University of Iowa. Police were expecting protestors, because Trump had already alienated and offended huge numbers of Americans. His rallies were already known for their tendency toward violence.
One young man was determined to demonstrate his distaste for candidate Trump.
According to police in Iowa City, 28 year old Andrew Alemao chose to express his political views through the use of vegetables.
Officers reported that Alemao was seen throwing tomatoes toward the podium as Trump was giving a speech. The record shows that he threw two of them. Neither of the juicy projectiles found their mark, but Alemao was still cited for disorderly conduct.
The case has finally wound its way through the Iowa court system and the tomato tosser was able to make a plea agreement.
The maximum punishment could have been a fine of $625 or 30 days in jail. Pretty stiff for just lobbing veggies.
But with the plea deal, Alemao will only pay $65 and the state will drop any assault charges.
Wow.
For a mere 65 dollar fine, a person can throw tomatoes at Donald Trump?
One would have to imagine hundreds of people lining up for the chance.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AEIiCj1QwEc
Featured image via YouTube Screengrab.
