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An apparently loony, lefty political worker handing out campaign leaflets for a DSA candidate in Brooklyn was arrested after allegedly punching and beating a 98-year-old man with a broomstick and metal chair in a crazed dispute over the reelection flyers, police said.
Tashara Abel was stuffing reelection flyers into mailboxes in the lobby of a building at Maple Street and Rogers Avenue in Prospect Lefferts Gardens when the nonagenarian walked in around 4 p.m. Thursday, cops said.
The two began beefing over the handouts for candidate and Democratic Socialists of America member and New York State Committee Member Anthony Beckford’s June 23 primary run, cops and neighbors said. Beckford is running for re-election as a Democratic district leader.
Abel, 27, allegedly repeatedly punched and kicked the older man before striking him with the broomstick and chair polices aid.
The victim was treated on the scene for minor head injuries and declined to go to the hospital.
Abel was charged with three counts of assault, burglary and criminal possession of a weapon, cops said.
Her arraignment before a judge was pending Saturday.
She has no prior arrests, a police source said.
Beckford’s campaign was reviewing the incident, he said in a statement.
“I am currently reviewing the situation to better understand the full circumstances, and I have personally reached out to the voter involved to ensure he is doing well and has the support he needs,” according to the statement shared with CBS NY.
“While volunteers may operate independently, anyone associated with my campaign is expected to conduct themselves with respect and professionalism at all times, and if it is determined that an individual connected to my campaign acted inappropriately, appropriate action will be taken,” the statement reads.
“We will continue to monitor this matter closely and remain prepared to cooperate with the appropriate authorities as needed, as our priority is maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all residents.”
“While volunteers may operate independently, anyone associated with my campaign is expected to conduct themselves with respect and professionalism at all times, and if it is determined that an individual connected to my campaign acted inappropriately, appropriate action will be taken,” the statement reads.