Trans couple ‘beaten by mob’ arrested instead of alleged attackers
The couple said they were brutally assaulted by a mob outside a public restroom. (Image: Envato)
A transgender couple in Louisiana says they were brutally assaulted by a mob outside a public restroom, only to be arrested themselves while their alleged attackers walked free.
Aurora Rush and Shae Sanders told Erin In The Morning via Substack in a 5 August interview that they were leaving Cypress Black Bayou Park in Bossier Parish on 31 May when they were surrounded by a group of around 10 people after using the women’s restroom.
According to the couple, they were subjected to anti-trans slurs, threats and physical violence.
Sanders says they were knocked unconscious and required four stitches above one eye, while Rush suffered a concussion and multiple other injuries.
Despite their injuries, both were charged by police. Sanders was charged with disturbing the peace, while Rush faces charges including fighting and using offensive language.
Erin In The Morning was unable to find evidence of any other arrests that day regarding the incident.
The couple maintains they never fought back and says they have rejected a plea deal because they want the case fully heard in court. Their next court dates is expected in August, as Erin In The Morning was told by the couple’s attorney.
Trans women taken to men’s jail
Rush also alleges she was taken to a men’s jail despite having a female gender marker on her driver’s license, searched by a male officer and initially booked under the wrong name. The couple’s attorney argues the attack should be treated as a hate crime.
Weeks after the incident on 15 July, Bossier Parish officials unanimously approved a proposal for one of the country’s strictest bathroom ordinances against trans people.
If enacted, the measure would require public employees to remove people from gendered facilities if their sex is questioned and could allow criminal penalties of up to a year in jail for anyone who refuses to leave.
The ordinance’s legal status remains uncertain amid procedural challenges, with another public hearing expected. If the resolution passes, there will be an opportunity for public comments on 2 September.
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