Brooklyn Councilwoman Susan Zhuang accused the NYPD of “brutality” and “Asian hate” after being arrested for allegedly biting a cop during a protest over a planned homeless shelter in her district.
Zhuang (D-43) addressed her constituents and reporters, stating, “Police brutality is wrong, the misuse of enforcement is wrong, the act of violence against innocent citizens is wrong.” She added that many Asian community members have experienced mistreatment by the NYPD.
She was arrested in Gravesend during a protest against a men’s shelter being constructed in the area. Zhuang claims she was trying to help an elderly constituent who was stuck under a barricade when the altercation with the police occurred.
An elderly woman, Yu Xin Chen, supported Zhuang’s actions, stating that the councilwoman saved her life by intervening.
During her speech to supporters, Zhuang played videos from the confrontation, which elicited strong reactions from the crowd.
Zhuang emphasized her support for the NYPD, citing her family connection to a slain NYPD detective and her previous stance on law enforcement legislation.
Mayor Eric Adams called Zhuang’s arrest “complicated” and expressed his intention to reach out to her due to her new role as a council member.
Zhuang faces multiple charges, including assault and resisting arrest, and is scheduled to appear in court on Oct. 15.
The proposed homeless shelter in Gravesend has sparked controversy among residents, with concerns about noise, permits, and community consultation.
The site has active demolition permits issued by the Department of Buildings, and the new shelter would be constructed as a hotel with a community center.
— Additional reporting from Haley Brown.
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