Democrat Susan Zhuang was taken away in cuffs after getting into an altercation with police at a protest against a planned homeless shelter.
(Bensonhurst, NY) – This morning around 150 residents clashed with police in another protest at the construction site for a new homeless shelter. A total of 8 people were arrested according to the NYPD, one of those being Councilwoman Susan Zhuang. Zhuang was arrested for assault for reportedly biting NYPD Deputy Chief Frank DiGiacomo on the arm.
The latest demonstration is part of a series of numerous protests that have now taken place at 2501 86th St. in Bensonhurst. Back in November 2023, the city unveiled plans to convert the building at the site into a single, male adult shelter outfitted with 150 beds. Locals against the plan are upset over the location choice, with a senior center and school being located nearby.
Video posted on social media shows construction at the site continuing despite the massive protests and community outrage.
