Just to play devils advocate a bit. Do you think it is possible that he knew he would not be welcomed and that in all likihood he would be asked to leave, casting a negative image for COTA and a more sympathetic view for him and his case? I think the whole situation is a bit out of sorts. Professional curtisy would say, even if invited one would decline as to not "force" this exact situation. This could, and should have been avoided.