On Wednesday, a dramatic scene unfolded in Gravesend, Brooklyn, where a New York City Council member was detained amidst a heated protest.
The demonstration was centered around a planned men’s homeless shelter, and it took a shocking turn when Councilwoman Susan Zhuang, 38, found herself in handcuffs.
The protest started early, with footage on social media capturing intense clashes between police and demonstrators from 6am.
In one video, a woman in a bright pink top, identified as Zhuang, was seen trying to pull a barricade away from police.
As officers attempted to restrain her with zip-ties, the situation escalated.
Another video showed Zhuang being escorted away in handcuffs.
The protest resulted in injuries, including a noticeable bite mark on the arm of Brooklyn South Deputy Chief of Patrol Frank DiGiacomo. DiGiacomo was treated at NYU Langone Hospital-Brooklyn for what he described as a “pretty nasty bite.
” According to police, Zhuang obstructed their efforts to aid a woman on the ground, pushed officers with the barricade, and ultimately bit a cop.
She now faces charges of assault, resisting arrest, and obstruction.
NYPD Chief of Patrol John Chell expressed his disbelief, noting Zhuang’s previous positive relationship with the police. “Councilwoman Zhuang has been a great partner with the NYPD for a long time,” Chell said.
“But the actions today, by assaulting one of our police officers, a deputy chief, by biting him viciously in the arm, I can’t explain it right now.”
In the chaos, three other officers were injured, with one suffering knee injuries and another a neck injury. Zhuang was among nine people arrested during the protest.
Zhuang took to social media to share her side of the story, posting a video with the caption: “There are no permits.
Mayor’s office allowed construction at 5 am in our neighborhood.” Later that evening, she was arraigned and released on her own recognizance.
Zhuang’s office claims she was trying to protect an elderly woman who was being pushed against barriers.
PBA President Patrick Hendry expressed shock at the incident, stressing that there is no excuse for assaulting a police officer.
He called for full accountability after a thorough investigation.
City Council’s Response
The city council is considering disciplinary actions against Zhuang, but they are waiting for the investigation’s outcome. A spokesperson emphasized that violence is unacceptable and that city workers deserve respect.
They promised to cooperate with the NYPD and the Brooklyn District Attorney.
Manhattan Councilman Keith Powers condemned Zhuang’s actions, stating, “There’s no reason anyone, elected official or otherwise, should be acting in this manner.”
He expressed hope for the officer’s swift recovery.
Community Concerns
The tensions in Gravesend stem from the city’s plan to build a shelter for 150 men.
Protesters voiced concerns about the shelter’s proximity to schools, daycares, and senior centers.
“People are not going to feel safe here because it’s a big building and it’s not safe for the community,” said Penny, 35. Another protester, Winnie Chan, echoed these concerns, citing the presence of schools and senior centers in the area.
Democratic leader William Colton criticized the city’s lack of communication with the community, arguing that the shelter was placed in the worst possible location.
Mayor Adams’ Response
Mayor Adams’ spokesperson defended the shelter, highlighting its necessity and the support it would provide to the homeless. The statement assured that the city had followed proper permitting procedures and committed to ongoing community engagement to address local concerns.
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