Lawmaker faces assault charges

Rep. Bob Filner (D-Chula Vista) has been summoned to court on assault and battery charges after an incident at Dulles International Airport where he allegedly pushed a United Airlines baggage claim worker.

Airport authorities said Filner attempted to enter an employees-only area, pushed aside the worker’s arm and wouldn’t leave when asked. The employee, whom United declined to identify, decided to press charges.

Filner disputed the account in a brief statement issued by his office, calling the charges “ridiculous.”