DIXON, Ill., July 8, 2003
L'affaire De Water Balloon
House Speaker Gets Wet - Attacker Charged With Felony
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Dennis Hastert (AP)
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John S. Allen, of Dixon, posted his $25,000 bail on Monday. He was arrested Sunday after throwing the balloon during the Dixon Petunia Festival parade. The balloon broke on an antique fire truck driven by Hastert, who got wet but was not injured.
Hastert did not immediately return telephone calls from The Associated Press.
Allen said in court he didn't know the Yorkville Republican was driving the truck. Lee County Judge Tomas Magdich reprimanded Allen for not recognizing Hastert.
“He is third in line to the presidency of the United States. You won't forget it next time, will you?” Magdich told Allen.
Lee County Assistant State's Attorney Norm Raffety did not return calls seeking comment. Allen's telephone number was not in service Monday.
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