An Emporia High School physics teacher was arrested after interrupting a public meeting over plans for a proposed data center.
Lux Claridge, 37, was one of several people warned during the July 22 Emporia City Commission meeting, but authorities said those warnings were ignored and the situation escalated.
The meeting focused on zoning amendments tied to the proposed Flint Hills Digital Campus data center in Kansas, a project that has become a flashpoint in Emporia as residents debate its possible impact on water use, local infrastructure and the community’s future. Earlier steps in the review process had already drawn large crowds, lengthy public comment and strong opposition from some residents.
As opponents of the project addressed commissioners, Claridge and others applauded in support of those speakers.
Officials then issued what was described as a final warning. When Claridge continued, officers stepped in, according to WOWT.
Claridge had reportedly been waiting for a chance to speak about the proposal, but was not able to do so after the arrest.
According to New York Post, the physics teacher told cops to ‘drag me out’ of the meeting while also declaring that they had ‘the right to clap’.
Emporia Police Department said in a statement following the ordeal: “On July 22, 2026, the Emporia City Commission held its regularly scheduled meeting. During the course of the meeting, several individuals in attendance were issued verbal warnings by the City Commission regarding disruptive conduct that was interrupting the proceedings.
“One individual, Lux Claridge, male, 37 years of age, continued this behavior and was directed to leave the meeting. Claridge did not comply with law enforcement’s efforts to remove him from the premises, requiring officers to physically carry him out of the meeting.
“Claridge was subsequently arrested and booked into the Lyon County Jail on charges of interference with law enforcement and disorderly conduct.”
Police also said they are committed to ensuring public meetings are ‘conducted safely and in an orderly manner, while also respecting the rights of all citizens to participate in the civic process’.
After posting bail, Claridge was released from jail and later spoke to KWCH about the experience.
“I’m glad to be out — but this is an inconvenience, really. It’s not really deterring me from speaking out or I guess, clapping,” the teacher said.
Claridge’s wife, Jessica Danford, was also in attendance at the July 22 meeting and described watching officers remove her partner.
“Seeing them carried out like that was a lot to handle,” she said.
Claridge is due in court in September and intends to plead not guilty.
Their brother, David Claridge, said he does not believe the case will stand and added that the family is exploring efforts to recall city officials.
“This isn’t going to hold up in court. Lux is going to fight them on that. I’m looking at avenues to get these people recalled. This is insane to me,” David said.
Emporia High School has been contacted for comment.