Brawl Erupts at Board Meeting in Thornton Township
Violence Breaks Out During Public Comment
A board meeting in the south suburbs of Chicago turned violent on Tuesday night when a brawl erupted during public comment. The meeting had been a feisty one from the start, but things took a dramatic turn when activist Jedidiah Brown’s comments against Township Supervisor Tiffany Henyard ended with him calling her an expletive. Brown walked away from the podium and towards where Henyard was sitting, before pivoting towards the back of the room, where people jumped in and fists started flying.
Fight Spills into the Back of the Room
The fight spilled into the back of the room, with people scrambling to get out of the way. During the brawl, punches were thrown, and at least one television monitor was damaged. At one point, Henyard was seen in the middle of the fight.
No Arrests Made
As the crowd was ushered out by private security, officers from the South Holland Police Department responded to the scene. However, those involved in the fight had already left before the police arrived, so no arrests were made.
Meeting Cut Short
Despite the dramatic turn of events, the meeting was not without its usual business. Before the brawl, the board approved several items, including accepting insurance on property and equipment, auto, public officials and employment practices liability, and general liability. These policies had been lapsed since the start of December, prompting the township to temporarily shutter many of its services.
Services to Resume
According to Henyard, services will resume on Wednesday, including the township’s buses. Even during the lapse, buses were spotted shuttling people to Henyard’s “Big Bingo” event.
Power Struggle Continues
The meeting also showcased the ongoing power struggle between Henyard and several trustees, including Chris Gonzalez and Carmen Carlisle. The board approved placing two of Henyard’s allies on paid administrative leave, a move she called “political retaliation.”
New Trustee Takes a Stand
New trustee Stephanie Wiedeman, who replaced Jerry Jones, made it clear that she would not bow down to Henyard. Wiedeman expressed her distrust of the supervisor and her ability to take accountability for the township’s actions.
Conclusion
The meeting was marked by violence and drama, but it was just the latest development in the ongoing power struggle in Thornton Township. As the township tries to get back to normal, it remains to be seen what the future holds for Henyard and her allies.
FAQs
* What happened at the board meeting in Thornton Township?
A brawl erupted during public comment, resulting in a fight that spilled into the back of the room.
* Were any arrests made?
No, those involved in the fight had already left before the police arrived.
* What was the outcome of the meeting?
The meeting was cut short, but the board approved several items, including accepting insurance policies that had been lapped since December.
* What is the current situation with township services?
Services will resume on Wednesday, including the township’s buses.
* What is the latest development in the power struggle between Henyard and trustees?
The board approved placing two of Henyard’s allies on paid administrative leave, a move she called “political retaliation.”
