Black Lives Matter New York co-founder surrenders to police on Harlem felony assault charges

Black Lives Matter Greater New York co-founder Hawk Newsome on Monday surrendered to the police over felony assault charges that stem from a local feud in Harlem that allegedly turned violent last week.

The co-founder is accused of punching Democratic District Leader William Allen and throwing a megaphone at him during a rally outside of Council Member Yusef Salaam’s office. He faces second-degree assault charges, per Am New York. 

Newsome believed he was surrendering on misdemeanor charges, the outlet reported, but the charges were upgraded to a felony because the victim was a senior over the age of 65. 

“This is a political attack," Newsome said while being escorted out of the stationhouse in cuffs. "I am not even thinking about the charges, I am thinking about Al Sharpton and Yusef Salaam using the same justice system they promised to fight against, against me. You can’t blame [President] Trump for weaponizing the justice system when you do it yourself."

Dozens of his supporters gathered to watch Newsome surrender to the authorities, including his sister Chivona Newsome, who also co-founded Black Lives Matter Greater New York. 

The Black Lives Matter movement surged to prominence in the summer of 2020 after the death of George Floyd spurred protests against alleged police brutality nationwide. 

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.