Council Member Susan Zhuang’s Court Appearance
Supporters Rally Around Council Member Amid Legal Battle
Council Member Susan Zhuang made a brief court appearance on Tuesday as part of her ongoing case for allegedly biting a police officer during a protest last summer.
Protest and Arrest
Zhuang was arrested on July 17 during a raucous protest against a planned homeless shelter in Gravesend. She has claimed she was protecting an 80-year-old protester who was trapped against a police barricade when officers attempted to arrest her, pulled her hair and put her in a chokehold. During the altercation, Zhuang allegedly bit one NYPD officer, leaving a visible mark.
Support from Constituents and Politicians
Since her arrest, Zhuang has received an outpouring of support from her constituents. Dozens of community members greeted her at a press conference when she returned to the district after her arraignment in July, and hundreds marched from Manhattan to Brooklyn in support of the council member later that month. Local politicians, including Brooklyn Democratic Party boss Rodneyese Bichotte Hermelyn and Assembly Member William Colton, have also spoken out in support of Zhuang, with Colton stating, "In Asian culture, protecting an elderly person is a very high principle. It’s a very high moral command. And the council member was trying to protect an elderly woman who was down."
Ethics Investigation and Legal Battle
The City Council opened an ethics investigation into Zhuang’s behavior, but the probe is on hold as her case plays out in court. Charges from the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office were still pending as of October 16. Zhuang pleaded not guilty to charges of assault, resisting arrest, obstructing government administration, and disorderly conduct, and was released without bail.
Conclusion
As the case continues to unfold, supporters of Council Member Susan Zhuang remain resolute in their backing for the council member, with many believing that police actions were excessive and that the council member was justified in her actions. While legal proceedings may take time, it is clear that the council member’s constituents, as well as local and national politicians, will continue to stand by her side.
FAQs
Q: What are the charges against Council Member Susan Zhuang?
A: Zhuang is facing charges of assault, resisting arrest, obstructing government administration, and disorderly conduct.
Q: What is the City Council’s position on the ethics investigation?
A: The City Council opened an ethics investigation into Zhuang’s behavior, but the probe is on hold as her case plays out in court.
Q: What is the status of the proposed homeless shelter in Gravesend?
A: The shelter has been met with opposition from local residents, and proposals to relocate the site have been delayed due to ongoing protests and community backlash.
Q: What is the current response from the police department regarding the allegations?
A: The police department has expressed surprise at Zhuang’s arrest, given her previous support for the police.
