PORTLAND, Maine (AP) - A judge has recused himself from case involving 17 participants in a Black Lives Matter protest that blocked traffic in Portland, Maine.
Defense lawyer Thom Hallett requested that the judge recuse himself after a tense exchange in court on Monday. Justice Paul Fritsche granted the request, and the hearing was postponed.
The judge was trying to find a way forward after charges were reinstated against protesters after they objected to terms of a restorative justice meeting with Police Chief Mike Sauschuck.
The group organized the protest in July after two black men were killed by police in Louisiana and Minnesota. The 17 protesters were charged with obstructing a public way.
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