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The suspect in the assault of Congressman Lee Zeldin, RN.Y., was arrested Saturday afternoon on federal assault charges, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York said.
David Yakubonis is scheduled to make an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Marion W. Payson on Saturday. Zeldin is running for governor of New York as a Republican.
Yakubonis, 43, of Fairmont, N.Y., is charged with attempted second-degree assault at the state level. He was arraigned in Perrinton Town Court and released on bond after Thursday’s attack.
CANDIDATE LEE ZELDIN OF NEW YORK VRIES TO FIRE OFFICERS WHO REFUSE TO ENFORCE LAW AFTER ATTACKER RELEASED WITHOUT BAIL
Congressman Lee Zeldin stands on stage during his speech before an alleged attack on him in Fairport, New York, United States, July 21, 2022. (Ian Winner/Handout via REUTERS)
Prior to Yakubonis’ release, Zeldin predicted the suspect would be released. Zeldin has promised to fire district attorneys who don’t enforce the law.
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Zeldin was giving a speech Thursday about bail reform at the Veterans of Foreign Wars post when the alleged attack happened.
WITNESS REcounts ATTACK ON LEE ZELDIN DURING NEW YORK CAMPAIGN: ‘HOME CRAZY’
Yakubonis was holding a black, hardened plastic key ring with two sharp points designed for self-defense, police said.
A man allegedly tried to attack Congressman Lee Zeldin while campaigning in New York City Thursday night. Pictured above is the weapon. (Zeldin Campaign)
Bree Stimson of Fox News contributed to this report.
Maria Paronic is a field producer in the Fox News Northeast Bureau.
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