A television reporter in Kentucky chastised a man who interrupted her live broadcast at the Louisville Bourbon and Beyond Festival to kiss her on the cheek.
“OK!” Sara Rivest exclaimed, dodging the stranger’s lips and nervously laughing before continuing her broadcast. “That was not appropriate,” she continued through giggles.
A few days after the incident, Rivest appeared in a studio segment to discuss the experience. “I’m sure he thought this was harmless fun,” she said. “I personally didn’t know how to react. I was shocked.”
While revisiting the brief incident during a studio segment she continued to explain how uncomfortable it made her feel. “This is not OK,” she said before describing the incident, which included the man pretending to smack her bottom.
“I think it’s important to tell people who don’t know, what a violation, and all-too-common occurrence this is,” Rivest continued in a serious tone. “If you want to act like an idiot behind me in a live shot, that’s your choice … but when you put your hands on me, or anyone else without their approval, that is wrong.”
Regarding whether she thought the incident was an assault, Rivest said she had spoken to police, who told her the video showed “harassment with physical contact,” and that they would arrest him if they were able to identify him. “It’s not funny,” Rivest said in conclusion. “I wouldn’t come to anyone’s workplace and harass them … please let me do my job too.”
UPDATE: The man who kissed Rivest was revealed to be Eric Goodman, 42, who was charged Thursday by the Jefferson County Attorney with harassment with physical contact, which is a misdemeanor. Goodman wrote an apology to Rivest, writing in part, “I sincerely apologize and deeply regret my actions where I allowed immaturity to humiliate you, myself, and many others.”
