Runner who smacked reporter’s backside on air arrested, charged

SAVANNAH, Ga. -- (WGN) -- The man accused of slapping a news reporter on the backside while she was reporting live in Savannah, Georgia, last week has been arrested and charged with sexual battery, according to her employer, CNN affiliate WSAV.

Thomas Callaway turned himself in at the Chatham County Sheriff's Office on Friday and was released on a $1,300 bond, according to a report by WSAV.

Callaway is accused of hitting Savannah reporter Alex Bozarjian on her backside as she was reporting at the Enmarket Savannah Bridge Run and he was running in the event. The incident was caught on camera, and Bozarjian's reporting was momentarily interrupted by her stunned reaction.

Bozarjian filed a sexual battery complaint with the Savannah Police Department. The report says she “described the smack as a 'smack and grab,' advising that he also grabbed her buttocks in the same motion. She stated she felt a sharp sting after the smack and advised that it caused her to pause during the broadcast.”

Bozarjian's attorney, Gloria Allred, provided a brief statement to WSAV Friday saying, “Alex is looking forward to justice in this case.”

“To the man who smacked my butt on live TV this morning: You violated, objectified, and embarrassed me,” Bozarjian said on Twitter. “No woman should EVER have to put up with this at work or anywhere!! Do better.”