Jared Steverson talks to media in January after his brief encounter with Mayor Rahm Emanuel outside of Malcolm X College. View Full Caption DNAinfo/Stephanie Lulay

CHICAGO — Jared Steverson, a prominent activist in Chicago's anti-police brutality movement, is in police custody on the South Side, according to fellow activists, who are rallying support for him.

Steverson, 28, was arrested at a protest at the Taste of Chicago in July, and hit with a battery charge.

Fellow activist Ja'Mal Green said Steverson was taken into custody at court Friday to face upgraded charges. Friends said he's in custody at the police station at 51st and Wentworth, which also holds a courthouse.

"I need everyone to meet me at 51st and wentworth at 3:30pm to demand the release of Jared," Green posted on Facebook. "An officer from the taste over a MONTH and Half ago now claiming he spit on him! SMH Meet me down there!"

When asked about Steverson, Chicago Police spokeswoman Michelle Tannehill would only say a 28-year-old man was in custody and charges were pending.

Activist Lamon Reccord also posted on Facebook in support of Steverson Friday: "FREE Jared Rizzy Steverson!!!!!!"

Supporting Democrat Cook County State's Attorney candidate Kim Foxx, Steverson was one of many black activists who fought to unseat Anita Alvarez in the March primary. The activists donned tees proclaiming: "Bye Anita."

In January, Steverson confronted Mayor Rahm Emanuel after a closed appearance at Malcolm X College.

Jared Steverson yells at Mayor Rahm Emanuel in January. (DNAinfo/Stephanie Lulay)

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