California

Ohio Man Suspected of Throwing Sucker-Punch at Laguna Beach Rally Arrested as He Bought Bus Ticket Out of Town

Video of the alleged assault in the Southern California seaside town was posted to social media sites

An Ohio man suspected of sucker-punching a demonstrator during a weekend rally in a Southern California beach community was arrested as he tried to buy a bus ticket out of town, according to police.

Laguna Beach police Sgt. Jim Cota said Wednesday that video of the alleged assault was posted to social media sites and helped detectives identify the suspect -- 20-year-old Richard Losey, of Lancaster, Ohio. 

It wasn't known if he has an attorney.

Investigators said Losey was likely trying to flee California to avoid criminal prosecution.

It's the fourth arrest stemming from Sunday's "America First" rally at Main Beach, where a small group of people demonstrating against illegal immigration were outnumbered by hundreds of counterprotesters denouncing racism. Police officers separated the groups during the gathering that officials said was largely peaceful.

The rally brought hundreds of law enforcement officers Sunday to the usually laid back beach community. Concrete barriers were set up near the boardwalk before about 2,500 demonstrators gathered for the opposing rallies.

Losey was booked on suspicion of misdemeanor battery with a hate crime enhancement. Bail was set at $50,000.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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