MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — A homeless man engaged in a lawsuit against the city of Morgantown claiming his First Amendment rights have been violated is caught police body cam video saying his attorney told him he needs more citations.
The exchange happened in October of 2024 in the middle of Route 119 at the intersection of Hornbeck Road.
“This is a citation for disorderly conduct in violation of city code 509.01, subsection G,” Morgantown police officer Matt Starsick said.
Andrew Rowand fired back that he had been waiting for a citation because his attorney from Mountain State Justice told him he needs “a couple of them.”
During the dialog both agree the attorney Rowand is working with at Mountain State Justice is Leslie Nash.
“So you and her are conspiring to violate city code 509.01.G?” Starsick asked.
“No, she doesn’t think it’s right for you guys to be targeting us,” Rowand answered.
Starsick told Rowand said anyone standing in the middle of a five-lane intersection would be targeted by police.
Starsick continued,” You’re telling me that she’s telling you to come out here and knowingly violate the law in order for her to try to cash in?” Starsick asked. “Ask her the next time you talk to her if she cares if you get hit by a vehicle?” Starsick asked.
As Starsick pointed out the dangers standing in the middle of the road Rowand responded.
“Yeah, maybe you’re right about that,” Rowand said. “Maybe it’s the cha-ching she’s seeing.”
As the conversation continues Rowand admits that since his lawsuit was filed in April of 2024 there have been no efforts to help him find a place to live, a job, or any services he may need.
Starsick then refers Rowand to the Morgantown Police Department Social Worker Kelly Rice for additional services.
Leslie Nash has been given a copy of the exchange, but said the context was not clear and refused comment.