Brooklyn City Councilman Arrested for Biting NYC Police Chief During Homeless Shelter Protest
A Brooklyn city councilman, Councilwoman Susan Zhuang, was arrested for biting the New York City police chief during a protest against the construction of a homeless shelter in Bensonhurst. The incident occurred during a 6 a.m. protest that drew about 200 demonstrators to the location, resulting in Zhuang being charged with assault, resisting arrest, and obstructing government administration. Another protester, Thanh Nguyen, was also charged with assaulting a police officer.
Protests and Arrest at the Homeless Shelter Site
Protests erupted early in the morning as workers began preparations to demolish existing buildings to make way for the shelter. Demonstrators waved American flags and held signs advocating for job creation over shelter construction. Councilwoman Zhuang, in a video posted online, claimed that the homeless shelters were being built without proper permits, leading to her arrest.
Community Concerns and Support
Community members expressed concerns about the safety and impact of the shelter on local schools and senior centers. Protesters argued that the shelter’s construction was approved without proper permits and voiced their opposition to its location. Despite the controversy, the mayor’s office defended the shelter as a much-needed addition to the community, citing services such as medical assistance and employment programs for residents on site.
Overall, the incident at the homeless shelter construction site in Bensonhurst has sparked heated debate and raised questions about community engagement and decision-making processes.
