Security footage captured an Alabama councilman punching Tarrant mayor Wayman Newton in the face after a meeting.
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According to TMZ, Councilman Thomas Bryant was arrested on Monday after punching Newton in the face in the parking lot of City Hall. Witnesses, including Tarrant Police Department officers, stated that the incident occurred after the two allegedly engaged in a heated disagreement inside City Hall. Bryant allegedly demanded that Newton quit as mayor during the alleged argument.
Tonight I was assaulted by Councilor Tommy Bryant for simply being a voice for the people I was elected to serve. I stand steadfast in my purpose and desire to move the City of Tarrant forward. pic.twitter.com/uR3BqAXblc
— Wayman Newton (@WaymanNewton) November 8, 2022
In the video, when Bryant approached him again, Newton came to his car. A short while later, the councilman hit Newton in the face.
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Bryant was previously accused of using racial slurs after he called another council member a “house n*****” during a town hall meeting. After learning about the incident, Twitter users expressed concern for Newton’s well-being and called Bryant’s actions unacceptable.
@WaymanNewton it’s people like Bryant that makes me want to put a bag over my head, I hope he gets to spend some time behind bars with the brothers. That’s what he needs. Hope you and your family are ok. 🙏😩
— Eric (@RickyandLilly) November 10, 2022
“One of the items that was set for tonight’s council meeting was a resolution authored by Bryant to reinstate the city’s fire chief who was fired in 2021 after he was charged with pulling a gun an Atlanta realtor.” pic.twitter.com/EcA4daBcDo
— quinn hendley (@hendley_quinn) November 8, 2022
“Bryant was arrested and taken to the Jefferson County Jail, where he was booked on a #harassment charge. Newton said he believes the charge should be #assault.” ~ #Yes
“Bryant and Newton have been at odds since Newton was elected as the city’s first Black mayor.” #ThereItIs
— quinn hendley (@hendley_quinn) November 8, 2022
According to AL.com, Bryant was arrested and booked at the Jefferson County Jail. He was charged with harassment, but Newton believes he should be charged with assault. The two political members were reportedly at odds since Newton was elected as the town’s first Black mayor.