(File Photo of an Ambridge Police Badge)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Ambridge, PA) Two lawsuits were recently filed in federal court that claimed that Ambridge police violated the rights of two people who were observing and protesting arrests outside the police department, believing the arrests involved ICE, before they were arrested themselves. This incident occurred on July 31st, 2025 in Ambridge and a video, provided by the attorney of the plaintiffs, shows a large presence of police before you hear a voice, which an attorney, Christine Elzer, stated is from her client, Isaac Elias, who was arrested for carrying a sign and causing a disturbance by screaming. Elzer, who also represents plaintiff Katherine “Katie” Melson, confirmed Melson can be seen in the video questioning the actions of the officers before she was arrested. The lawsuits name Beaver County, Ambridge Borough, and two Ambridge Borough police officers. The lawsuit also states that representation was denied for both Elias and Melson, who spent the night they were arrested in prison. According to Beaver County Assessment Solicitor Joe Ascar, while the case is now in the hands of the insurance company, he will be discussing it with the council next week.