Viral video shows Kenosha man arrested during public comment at county board meeting

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KENOSHA, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Viral video shows the moment a man was taken to the ground and arrested at a Kenosha County Board of Supervisors meeting Tuesday night. 

The Kenosha County Sheriff's Office said Joel Trudell was arrested for disorderly conduct and resisting arrest after he became "loud and contentious" during public comment at the board meeting Tuesday night. 

Chairman Gabe Nudo said Trudell was warned repeatedly to stop causing disruptions before being asked to leave.

Video shows Trudell holding onto the podium and door, refusing to leave with the deputies. 

"While I strongly support the right of the public to voice their opinions in citizens' comments at our meetings, decorum must be maintained, and disruptive behavior will not be tolerated," Nudo said in a statement.

The meeting was adjourned shortly after the arrest.

"No business was done last night for the taxpayer," Supervisor Andy Berg said.

People in the room said the disruptions started much earlier in the evening with people in the gallery, including Trudell, talking over others who had the mic.

Berg told CBS 58 Trudell shouldn't have been removed, and instead given time back.

"The favoritism that our chairman was giving by calling some people 'out of order' and not other people 'out of order' is what kindled the situation," Berg said.

Supervisor Brian Bashaw said Nudo was more than fair. 

"I believe the chair gave him more than ample opportunity," Bashaw said.

Both supervisors told CBS 58 that public comment is very important. 

"You can speak and be respectful and still share very strong opinions," Bashaw said.

The Kenosha County District Attorney said Trudell will be summoned by the court in late July. 

CBS 58 tried to reach Trudell but did not get a response.

Watch the full meeting here.

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