Video

Michael Stowell, the self-appointed Station Manager of ACAT "public access" Channel 12, assaults Charles Douglas, an ACAT Boardmember, when he attempts to exercise his legal rights to enter and inspect corporate property and ensure station compliance with producer contracts. Douglas filed charges for assault and battery against Stowell after police arrived. Later this same month, the City of Arcata dissolved its contract with ACAT, Inc. and took direct control of the station away from Stowell. The charges against Stowell, however, were vacated by former District Attorney Terry Farmer, who was under pressure from Arcata City Attorney Nancy Diamond to avoid further embarrassment for her bosses at Arcata City Hall.