Demonstrators sue Trump after sidewalk scuffle with security team

NEW YORK, Sept. 9 (UPI) -- Five protesters filed a lawsuit against Republican presidential hopeful Donald Trump after an alleged assault by the billionaire businessman's security detail.

The lawsuit, filed by protesters Efrain Galicia, Florencia Tejeda Perez, Gonzalo Cruz Franco, Johnny Garcia and Miguel Villalobos, alleges Trump's security team "violently attacked" them at a Sept. 3 demonstration on the sidewalk outside Trump Tower, where Trump was speaking to reporters about his bid for the 2016 election.

Galicia was holding up a large blue sign that read, "Trump: Make America Racist Again" and a fight ensued when a security guard ripped the sign in two. Galicia chased down and grabbed the security guard, who then struck Galicia in the face, The New York Times reported.

Following the scuffle, Trump's campaign said the security guard was "jumped from behind" and indicated it may file charges against the protesters.

The demonstrators allege the security team destroyed their property "for the express purpose of interfering with their political speech while they were lawfully and peacefully assembled." They are demanding Trump refrain from interfering with future protests. The demonstrators are alleging assault, civil theft of property and interference with political speech.