A man from Massachusetts has been officially charged after reportedly attacking a supporter of former President Donald Trump. The victim was clad in an inflatable costume resembling Trump during a political protest over the weekend, according to police reports.
The altercation unfolded on Saturday at a “No Kings” rally held at King’s Beach in Swampscott, a town located just outside Boston.
Footage captured on a cellphone shows the suspect, identified as 36-year-old Michael Curll, approaching the costumed man, Jonathan Silveira, from behind and allegedly kicking and tackling him.
The video was recorded by Angela Mazariegos, Silveira’s girlfriend, who was present during the incident.
Jonathan Silveira, dressed as an inflatable Donald Trump, was tackled at King’s Beach in Massachusetts during the “No Kings” rally on Saturday, October 18, according to Angela Mazariegos.
Silveira, who carried an American flag while wearing the inflatable suit, shared with Boston 25 News that his intention was merely to express support for Trump, not to provoke a confrontation.
“I love Donald Trump. Go Trump,” he added.
Swampscott police said Curll “hooked Silveira’s legs” and wrapped his arms around his neck, knocking him to the pavement, according to a police report obtained by Boston 25.
A man dressed as former President George Washington displays a sign during a “No Kings” protest in Boston Saturday. (Brian Snyder/Reuters)
Swampscott Police Department Sgt. Brendan Reen confirmed to Fox News Digital that Curll pleaded not guilty Monday to assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and was released on personal recognizance.
A pretrial hearing is scheduled for December.
Silveira posted the jarring video to Facebook writing, “My costume is ruined by a liberal lunatic.”
Protesters gather in Washington, D.C., for a “No Kings” rally Saturday. (Fox News Digital/Emma Woodhead)
Silveira said he will continue showing his support for Trump “unapologetically, even if others may not like it.”
Fox News Digital requested a copy of the incident report from police.
Silveira did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.
