NYC Councilwoman Susan Zhuang Arrested After Biting Police Chief During Protest

New York City Councilwoman Susan Zhuang, 38, was arrested Wednesday evening following a heated protest against a proposed men’s shelter in the Bensonhurst, Brooklyn, neighborhood. The altercation occurred at the intersection of 25th Avenue and 86th Street, where tensions over the shelter plan have escalated for months.

Zhuang, a first-term Democratic councilmember, faces multiple charges, including second and third-degree assault, resisting arrest, obstruction of governmental administration, unlawful assembly, disorderly conduct and second-degree harassment. She was arraigned later that evening and released on her recognizance.

The incident reportedly began when Zhuang attempted to intervene in an altercation involving an 80-year-old woman being pushed against protest barriers. During the confrontation, Zhuang allegedly bit Brooklyn South Deputy Chief of Patrol Frank DiGiacomo on the arm. DiGiacomo was subsequently treated at NYU Langone Hospital-Brooklyn for the bite wound.

A spokesperson for Zhuang claims she was defending the older woman and has shown bruises on her arms to the media. Her attorney indicated that Zhuang would refrain from making public statements and expressed confidence that the charges would be dropped once all facts were revealed.

The incident has left NYPD Chief of Patrol John Chell confused. “Councilwoman Zhuang has been a great partner with the NYPD for a long time,” Chell said. “But her actions today, including assaulting a deputy chief by biting him, are inexplicable.”

In addition to DiGiacomo, three other officers sustained injuries during the protest. One officer suffered injuries to both knees and another to his neck. Nine individuals, including Zhuang, were arrested for their involvement in the demonstration.

The proposed shelter has been a contentious issue in Gravesend. Residents are concerned about its proximity to schools, daycare centers, and senior centers. Opponents argue that the shelter, which will accommodate 150 men, poses risks of increased crime and instability in the area.

Local leaders and residents are calling for a reassessment of the city’s approach to the shelter. The City Council has not decided on any disciplinary actions against Zhuang and is awaiting further information as investigations continue.

A council spokesperson emphasized the importance of respecting city workers and maintaining peace. “We have seen the public footage of the incident and will be seeking more details,” the spokesperson said. “The Council will respect the NYPD and Brooklyn District Attorney’s processes as this matter unfolds.”