On Wednesday, a Brooklyn City Council member found herself at the center of a dramatic scene when she was arrested for allegedly biting a police chief during a heated protest.
The protest took place at a proposed site for a new men’s homeless shelter in the Gravesend neighborhood.
Susan Zhuang, a 38-year-old Democrat from Brooklyn, was detained as the protest turned chaotic.
Video footage and images shared on social media captured police and protesters clashing from early in the morning.
In one clip, a woman in a bright pink top—believed to be Zhuang—is seen struggling with police over a barricade while an officer attempts to handcuff her.
Another video shows Zhuang being escorted away by police in handcuffs.
A photo circulating online shows a significant bite mark on the arm of Deputy Chief Frank DiGiacomo from the Brooklyn South precinct.
DiGiacomo, who described the bite as “pretty nasty,” was taken to NYU Langone Hospital-Brooklyn for treatment.
Charges and Reactions
According to the police, Zhuang was preventing officers from reaching a woman on the ground and used the barricade to push them away before allegedly biting DiGiacomo.
She faces charges of assault, resisting arrest, and obstruction.
NYPD Chief of Patrol John Chell expressed his disbelief, noting Zhuang’s history of cooperation with the NYPD.
“Councilwoman Zhuang has been a great partner with the NYPD for a long time,” Chell said.
“But today’s actions—assaulting a deputy chief by biting him viciously—are inexplicable.”
In the melee, three other officers sustained injuries, including one with knee problems and another with a neck injury. Overall, nine people were arrested, including Zhuang.
Social Media and Legal Proceedings
Early Wednesday, Zhuang posted a video on X (formerly Twitter) showing her arguing with an officer, accompanied by a caption criticizing the lack of permits for the shelter construction.
Later that day, a spokesperson for the Brooklyn district attorney announced Zhuang’s arraignment, noting that she was released on her own recognizance.
Zhuang’s office claimed she was trying to protect an 80-year-old woman from being pushed against barriers when she was arrested.
The Patrolmen’s Benevolent Association (PBA) President Patrick Hendry expressed shock and condemned the violence against police officers, emphasizing that no one is above the law.
Community Concerns and Official Statements
The protest erupted over the city’s plan to build a homeless shelter for 150 men.
Opponents voiced concerns about the shelter’s proximity to schools, daycares, and senior centers, fearing it might increase crime and disrupt local businesses.
Protesters carried signs with messages like “Help the homeless by creating jobs, not building shelters!” and “No shelters near playgrounds or schools!” Some, like Penny and Winnie Chan, expressed worries about safety in the community.
Democrat William Colton criticized the city for not communicating with the community and for choosing a location he deemed unsuitable.
He pointed out the shelter’s proximity to a church and several schools.
Mayor Eric Adams’ office defended the shelter, stating it would provide much-needed resources to help homeless individuals transition to permanent housing.
The statement also highlighted the importance of community engagement and support for vulnerable populations.