Rock singer arrested for diving into crowd

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel - September 4, 1996

The lead singer of local funk rock group Citizen King learned Monday that authorities weren't kidding when he "body surfed" his way into jail after ignoring warnings not to jump into the crowd following the band's performance at Maritime Days.

Matthey Sims, 21, was arrested Monday for endangering safety by conduct regardless of life after he jumped into the crowd, Sheriff's Department Lt. David Iushewitz said.

Citizen King recently signed a national record deal with 510, a subsidiary label of MCA, marking the end of a three-year period in which the band was the Milwaukee area's biggest unsigned alternative band, the band announced two months ago.

Iushewitz said the arrest was made after authorities had warned band members not to jump into the crowd.

The Sheriff's Department arrested 10 people for disorderly conduct, some for "body surfing." During the festival's run Friday through Monday at Veterans Park on the lakefront, several other people were arrested for underage drinking, possession of drugs and other infractions, authorities said.

Jeff Castelaz, the group's manager, said he had warned band members that they could be arrested and fined $200 for jumping into the crowd.

"He jumped into the crowd but people passed him back onto the stage," Castelaz said.

"We were here to entertain. Cab Calloway jumped into the crowd before. Why couldn't we? Give me a break."

Castelaz said the band was not approached by authorities or festival officials about concert rules and regulations.

However, June Lehman, a spokeswoman for Maritime Days, said officials talked to the band members before their performance.

"The do's and don'ts were discussed with the band," Lehman said. "He (Sims) told the crowd it would cost him $200 if he jumped in, and he did."

The district attorney's office was expected to complete a review of the case by the end of the week. Sims was released on bail Tuesday.

Julio V. Cano