Virginia student whose arrest sparked protest makes court appearance

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (AP) -- A University of Virginia student whose arrest by state alcohol regulators has sparked protests and a state police investigation will be back in court in on May 28.

Martese Johnson appeared in General District Court on Thursday to face charges of public intoxication or swearing and obstruction of justice. The 20-year-old Chicago man's attorney has said he'll plead not guilty.

Johnson's arrest March 18 outside a bar has drawn wide attention because images of him with a bloody face spread quickly on social media. He also accused Alcoholic Beverage Control officers of racism. Johnson is African American.

Gov. Terry McAuliffe has ordered a state police investigation of the incident. He also signed an executive order Wednesday requiring more training for ABC agents. The training would include lessons in cultural diversity.

Many young people gathered outside of the courthouse Thursday in a show of solidarity with Johnson.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.