Protester arrested after altercation with Jay Ashcroft

JEFFERSON CITY — A pro-Palestinian protester was arrested Tuesday night after he was reportedly involved in an altercation with Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft. 

Ashcroft was headed to an event hosted by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) following Israeli Consul General Maor Elbaz-Starinsky's  speech to a joint session of the Missouri General Assembly.

The Jefferson City Police Department (JCPD) said just before 5 p.m., a group of protesters were blocking the roadway near Jefferson Street and High Street. JCPD said officers asked the participants to clear the roadway, but then they reportedly began blocking access to several local businesses, including the private event.

JCPD said contact was made with the protest coordinator and gave them an explanation on public gathering ordinances. 

Shortly after, JCPD said they arrested 20-year-old Ainslee Harkins for trespassing after she allegedly entered the private event and would not leave.

JCPD remained on the scene to monitor the group when Ashcroft arrived. 

According to the Secretary of State's office, Ashcroft was headed past the protesters and into the building when one protester allegedly grabbed him and tried to push him down to the ground. 

JCPD said they immediately stepped in and arrested 56-year-old Christopher Henry from St. Louis. 

Both detained individuals were transported to Cole County Jail and posted bond.

As of Wednesday afternoon, charges were not filed against either protester. Ashcroft has also not pressed charges, but the Secretary of State's office says that may change when he returns to the state from Washington D.C. on Friday.

Police say this an ongoing investigation, and anyone with information should contact JCPD or Crimestoppers.