An Evanston 12-year-old was arrested, put in a police wagon and taken to the police station after officers saw him riding on the back of a bicycle that went through a red light, the boy’s father said.

“I realize and recognize we need police. But why are we arresting a 12-year old?” said Robert Bady, whose son, Iain, 12, was arrested in downtown Evanston after riding on the back pegs of his friend’s BMX bike July 14.

Bady spoke at the Evanston City Council meeting Aug. 14, telling aldermen he was upset his son, who is African-American, faced such serious consequences over something so minor.

“What did he do that was so egregious?” asked Bady.

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