Recently, a female reporter from the US was physically assaulted by a runner on live television while she was covering a marathon in Savannah, Georgia. The woman, Alex Bozarjian, went on to post footage of the incident and called out the man for “smacking” her “butt” against her consent while she was working. The video went viral and sparked massive outrage online.
Thanks to the outrage, some people were able to identify the man online and now the accused, 43-year-old Thomas Callaway has been arrested, reports The Indian Express. What’s surprising is that he is the Youth Minister.
After being arrested, Callaway admitted to his inappropriate conduct and apologised on television. He said that it was a misjudgement of “character and decision making” and that he will try to do better.
He also said that he didn’t mean to touch her on the rear. He only meant to pat her back. After seeing the video, he alleged that he realised he hit her butt.
Watch his video here:
The reporter posted an official statement online as a response to the man’s arrest. Here’s what Alex tweeted:
— Alex Bozarjian (@wsavalexb) December 14, 2019
People on the internet are glad that the man is facing the consequences of the assault. Many are inspired by how Alex spoke up about the incident and are urging other women to not keep shut and speak about their experiences unafraid.
Alex Bozarjian, Thank You for Standing Up and Speaking Out Loud For All Us Women!!!! You are a True ROLE MODEL for Young Girls and Boys to Look Up to……
— Cathy Roland (@cmroland71471) December 14, 2019
This is for all the women that have been passively assaulted and never felt safe about speaking up about it. Thanks
— NOT Melany Garcia (@NotMelany) December 15, 2019
GOOD FOR YOU! Stay strong! NO ONE has a right to take someone’s body as they please. It is NEVER harmless. NEVER okay! #MeToo
— Ayfkm (@ayfkmnow) December 15, 2019
His was inappropriate behavior and his apology was nothing more than hiding behind an excuse – the same that so many use to excuse much worse violations of a person.
— Dexter (@CubicleDexter) December 14, 2019
https://twitter.com/Jessica29095828/status/1206185358590959616
Thank you for speaking out about this.
It inspired me to talk about what I went through in High School.
This kind of crap needs to stop and I am glad you're taking action! #MeToo
— Jeremy Fuscaldo @ Job Searching! (@JeremyFuscaldo) December 15, 2019
Dear women, if you have been sexually harassed, abused, or assaulted, do not feel afraid to speak about it. Our voices are powerful, and sometimes it’s the only thing that’s needed to punish perpetrators of such crimes.