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Manatee County Boy, Sister Acquitted In Blown Kiss Case

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By DALE WHITE

Sarasota Herald-Tribune

Published: September 18, 2008

MANATEE COUNTY – A juvenile court judge today acquitted a teenage boy who faced misdemeanor and felony charges after he was arrested last spring for blowing a kiss at a police officer.

Lance Lewis, 14, was acquitted of charges of disorderly conduct and felony battery on a police officer Thursday in the incident.

"It's been a horrible nightmare," said Clarence Lewis, father of Lance Lewis. "But the law was on our side."

In April, Lance jokingly blew a kiss at Bradenton Beach Police part-time officer Timothy E. Matthews at Coquina Beach. Matthews confronted the boy. During questioning, Lance reportedly cursed at Matthews.

According to reports: Matthews decided to arrest the Tampa boy for disorderly conduct because children nearby may have heard the profanity. The officer put Lewis, who had a cast on his right arm, into a headlock and wrestled him to the ground.

Matthews also arrested Lance's 18-year-old sister Veronica for stepping between him and her brother and pushing the officer.

On Tuesday, Judge Diana Moreland dismissed a felony charge of battery on a police officer against her.

Alex Hajaistron, Lance's attorney, argued that the officer overreacted and did not follow protocol.

"My son is not a bad kid," Clarence Lewis said. "He's a goofy kid; I'm thrilled my children were vindicated."

Hajaistron said he intends to file a lawsuit against Bradenton Beach Police for unspecified damages. "There are going to be many claims."

"My son's civil rights were violated," Lewis said. "They need to be held accountable."

Lewis said he wants to sue to recover legal fees.

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