'I'm Not Guilty' Gay Marriage Mayor Tells Judge
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff

Posted: March 3, 2004 7:18 p.m. ET
(New Paltz, New York) New Paltz mayor Jason West pleaded innocent Wednesday evening to 19 charges that he violated New York State law by performing weddings for same-sex couples without marriage licenses.
Hundreds of supporters cheered as the mayor exited the small courthouse after his arraignment.
Last week West married more than 20 same-sex couples in ceremonies in front of the New Paltz village hall. (story) Since then more than 1,000 others have registered on the village's Web site.