How do we explain the different eyewitness accounts of the alleged incident yesterday at the Capitol?

There's been quite a bit of talk today surrounding what happened or did not happen with the alleged shoving of Rep. Reecy Dickson (D - Macon) by a reported Tea Party member yesterday.  How can so many people who claim to have seen the same event have such different accounts of it?  Here's my crack at an explanation:

EMCL - Eyewitness identification and testimony - Is it reliable?

Audio of Rep. Chuck Espy (D - Clarksdale) on floor speaking about alleged shoving of Rep. Reecy Dickson (D - Macon)

Rep. Chuck Espy (D - Clarksdale) addressing House concerning alleged shoving of Rep. Reecy Dickson (D - Macon)

The HOME website has the audio of Rep. Espy's fiery speech on the House floor yesterday concerning the alleged shoving of Rep. Reecy Dickson (D - Macon) by a reported Tea Party member.  I referenced the speech here before, and recommend that you go listen to it.  Will be interesting to see what happens with Rep. Espy's investigation.

What are the legal implications of simple assault on a legislator?

I've got your answer here.

Photo of State Capitol Police investigating possible assault of Rep. Reecy Dickson

The above photo purportedly shows State Capitol Police investigating reports that Rep. Reecy Dickson (D - Macon) was assaulted after the charter schools vote in the House Education Committee.  The charter schools bill died by one vote, with Rep. Dickson voting against the measure.