New York City Council member Susan Zhuang, who was arrested last year for biting a police officer during a protest against a homeless shelter, had her case dismissed on Tuesday. The Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office stated that Councilwoman Zhuang has completed a Restorative Justice program and reached a settlement with the officer.
The incident took place in July 2024 when Zhuang participated in a protest against the construction of a homeless shelter in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn. It was reported that she bit Officer Frank DiGiacomo’s arm during a confrontation with the police, causing him to bleed. She was subsequently charged with assault, obstructing governmental administration, and resisting arrest. Zhuang claimed she was in conflict with the police while protecting an elderly woman.
The Restorative Justice program was facilitated by Brooklyn Justice Initiatives and the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office, which arranged a dialogue between Zhuang and the injured officer. A spokesperson for the District Attorney’s Office stated: “This is an approach that focuses on dialogue, accountability, and healing. It embodies the essence of Restorative Justice – addressing harm, fostering understanding, and moving forward.”
Zhuang, a conservative Democrat, is a member of the Common Sense Caucus in the City Council and has close ties with law enforcement. She received endorsement from the police union in 2023. Her lawyer told the media that settling the case in this manner was the most reasonable outcome for both parties.
Despite not having the case sealed, there will be no criminal record left for Zhuang. She is expected to run for re-election later this year, with no challengers from major parties such as the Conservative Party, Republican Party, and Working Families Party.
After the case was dismissed, Zhuang expressed gratitude on social media for the community’s care and support. She said, “Looking back, together we made history with the American protest and also set the record for the longest protest in New York history! I deeply thank the residents of 86th Street and people from all walks of life for their steadfast commitment, efforts, and dedication!”
Zhuang stated that although her legal battle has ended, she will continue to fight alongside everyone until the homelessness issue on 86th Street is completely resolved. She pledged, “I will always stand with our community and resist unfair and unjust policies to the end!”
Community advocate Ling Fei welcomed the outcome, posting on X platform: “For the sake of the community’s warmth, we must not let them freeze in the storm. As of now, the nine individuals who were arrested on 7/17 last year for protesting the 86th Street homeless shelter have all landed safely with no criminal records.”