Blind Activist Ordered To Trial For Disobeying Capitol Cops

LANSING (AP) - A blind man accused of obstructing police has been ordered to stand trial in a case related to a Lansing event celebrating a federal disabilities law.

Judge Hugh Clarke Jr. heard testimony Friday and watched video. He says people don't have a right to disobey lawful commands.

Police believed that Paul Harcz, also known as Joe, was a protester who wanted to disrupt the event last month at the state Capitol. Police say the 62-year-old Flint-area man struck officers with his white cane as he tried to get past a barricade.

Defense attorney Mark Kamar calls it an accident.

The Detroit Free Press quotes the judge as saying it will be up to jurors to decide if Harcz had been invited to the Americans with Disabilities Act celebration.

© Copyright 2015 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.