Councilwoman Susan Zhuang Accused of Biting Officer During Bensonhurst Shelter Protest
Councilwoman Susan Zhuang Faces Charges After Alleged Police Bite During Bensonhurst Shelter Protest
According to The City – NYC News, South Brooklyn Councilwoman Susan Zhuang faces serious charges after allegedly biting a police officer during a protest against a new homeless shelter in Bensonhurst. The incident unfolded during a heated demonstration where Susan Zhuang and angry residents voiced opposition to the planned shelter citing concerns over its impact on the community. The protest that was marked by tensions has escalated when Zhuang and others confronted police near the shelter site on 86th Street. Video footage captured Zhuang shouting at officers claiming lack of proper permits for construction. Reports indicate the situation intensified when an elderly woman collapsed prompting activist Kenneth Chiu to intervene. Police responded by attempting to make arrests leading to a scuffle during which Zhuang allegedly bit an officer. City officials clarified that despite the influx of migrants into emergency shelters Bensonhurst itself lacks any dedicated shelter for the homeless. The proposed facility aims to provide critical services like mental health support and job training for 150 individuals.
READ ALSO: First Sitting U.S. Senator Found Guilty: Bob Menendez Convicted On All 16 Counts Of Bribery, Extortion, And Acting As Foreign Agent!
Zhuang Criticized for Alleged Police Altercation Amid Bensonhurst Homeless Shelter Protest
Criticism swiftly followed Zhuang‘s actions from fellow Democrats and Republicans alike. State Senator Andrew Gounardes and Councilmember Justin Brannan condemned her behavior as “deeply disturbing” emphasizing that such conduct contradicts her role as a lawmaker. Republican Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis echoed the sentiment expressing disappointment in Zhuang‘s aggression while reiterating her opposition to the shelter. The Department of Homeless Services had notified the community about the shelter last fall, but opposition has been vocal particularly from the Asian American community in South Brooklyn which has leaned right in recent years. Susan Zhuang, known for her alignment with right-leaning factions on various issues previously campaigned against a migrant shelter in Sunset Park. Her current legal troubles add complexity to the ongoing debate over homelessness and community development in Bensonhurst. For now, Zhuang awaits arraignment on charges that include assault and obstructing governmental administration as community members on both sides of the issue await further developments in this contentious debate.