Food Not Bombs co-founder Keith McHenry is facing three misdemeanor charges in Santa Cruz Superior Court as a result of his work to defend the rights of the poor. The original case stemmed from an action where McHenry replaced 33 "blue artist boxes" on Pacific Avenue that had been removed by the city.

On December 8, Santa Cruz District Attorney Archie Webber told the court that a warrant had been issued for Mr. McHenry's arrest in a new case where he has been charged with "offensive words" under California Penal Code 415(3). The other new misdemeanor was 'Failure to obey a police officer' who claims he told McHenry to use a cross walk at City Hall at midnight during a Freedom Sleepers protest.

The next important court hearing will be held on Tuesday, January 26, 2016 at 10:00 am.

Tuesday, January 26: Food Not Bombs Co-Founder Keith McHenry Faces New Criminal Charges for His Work to Defend the Rights of the Poor

See Also: Defending Public Space - More on why driving artists off of Pacific Avenue in Santa Cruz is a crime | Court Hearing for Food Not Bombs Cofounder, Arrested for Spray Painting Blue Squares in SC | SCPD celebrates their big arrest in keeping downtown safe! | OPEN CITY for Performers and Artists: A Brief Period with no Rules! | Unpermitted Blue Boxes Appear Overnight on Pacific Avenue | Alex and Jeff "Freedom Painters" Go to Court Hearing | Artists Return After Arrest | Food Not Bombs website