WATERVILLE, Maine (NEWS CENTER) -- One man was arrested Sunday morning at Colby College's commencement ceremony while protesting during a speech made by former British Prime Minister Tony Blair.
Waterville Police said at the beginning of commencement at 10 AM, a handful of protestors set up outside a roped-off area of seating reserved for graduates, faculty, guests, and friends and family of graduates.
Police said the protestors had a number of signs proclaiming that Blair was a war criminal. The protestors were approached by Colby College security staff and were told they could stay as long as they didn't disrupt the graduation ceremony.
When Blair's speech began, several protestors began screaming and were escorted from campus. A short time later, another protestor began screaming and was also escorted away. After being warned, police said 53-year-old Lawrence Reichard from Bangor continued to disrupt the graduation. He was arrested and charged with disorderly conduct.
Waterville Police said Reichard was released from the station after being processed. He's due to appear in Waterville District Court in August.
NEWS CENTER