NEW YORK (1010 WINS) – A judge on Tuesday dismissed charges against Council Member Susan Zhuang, who was arrested last summer for biting an NYPD officer during a protest.
In a statement, the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office said, “This case was resolved through a restorative justice process that created space for dialogue, accountability, and healing.”
“It was based on the wishes of the victim and the defendant’s willingness to make amends,” the statement continued. “This is exactly what restorative is meant to do—address harm, foster understanding, and support a path forward.”
The restorative justice process brought Zhuang and the officer, NYPD Deputy Chief Frank DiGiacomo, together for a conversation on March 26. They signed a joint statement saying they're "ready to move forward," prosecutors said.
Zhuang, a conservative Democrat who represents a slice of South Brooklyn from Sunset Park to Gravesend, was arrested July 17 as residents protested a proposed homeless shelter at on 86th Street in Bensonhurst.
About 150 people were participating in the rally when Zhuang allegedly bit the officer on the arm. She pleaded not guilty to second-degree assault and other charges, saying she was helping an older protester at the time.
Zhuang won her seat in 2023 with the support of the city's largest police union. After last year's incident, NYPD Chief of Department John Chell said she was a "great partner" of the police department.