Topeka, KS – A protest at the Kansas State Capitol escalated Friday morning when a member of the Satanic Grotto allegedly disrupted Capitol proceedings and was later taken into custody, along with four other individuals.
According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, the group had a permit to demonstrate on the Capitol’s east side from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. However, at approximately 11:28 a.m., Michael Stewart, 42, allegedly entered the building, passed through security, and initiated what officials described as a “dedication to Satan” in the rotunda. An altercation allegedly broke out between Stewart and Marcus Schroeder, 21, before both were taken into custody.
Officials said Stewart was charged with disorderly conduct and unlawful assembly, while Schroeder was charged with disorderly conduct. Jocelyn Frazee, 32, and Sean Anderson, 50, who entered the building with Stewart, were also arrested for unlawful assembly.
Multiple groups were permitted to gather at the Capitol on Friday, including the Rally for Reparations and Catholic Vote. Demonstrators were reminded by officials that activities were restricted to designated areas.
The Kansas Highway Patrol confirmed the case will be forwarded to the District Attorney’s Office for further review.
