A chaotic scene unfolded at the Kansas State Capitol on Friday after a controversial “black mass” demonstration, which was met with strong resistance from Catholic protesters.
The leader of the demonstration, Michael Stewart, was arrested shortly after the event when he punched a protester in the face inside the Capitol building.
A Clash of Beliefs
Footage from local news station WIBW shows Stewart, leader of the Satanic Grotto, raising his arms and chanting in the Capitol rotunda.
Surrounded by protesters, one of them, a young man named Marcus Schroeder, tried to grab what appeared to be papers from Stewart’s hands.
The situation escalated quickly when Stewart, in response, punched Schroeder twice in the face.
Police Step In
After the altercation, a group of police officers quickly intervened, tackling Stewart and escorting him out of the building.
A video shared on social media captured the tense moment, showing the chaos as Stewart was taken away by law enforcement.
Background to the Protest
Earlier, Stewart had been warned by authorities that while he was free to enter the Capitol, he was not allowed to hold any demonstrations inside.
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly had previously issued a ban on protests within the building.
However, Stewart had publicly stated that he intended to defy the order, including in a Facebook Live video where he mentioned his plan to enter the Capitol and “read prayers.”
The Aftermath
Following the incident, two other members of Stewart’s Satanist group tried to continue the demonstration but were also taken into custody by authorities.
At this time, it remains unclear what charges, if any, will be filed against those involved in the confrontation.