Boston Man Charged After Polling Place Disruption Over Food

UPDATE: A Boston man has been charged after a chaotic scene unfolded at a Dorchester polling place on September 26, 2023, where he allegedly assaulted a police officer amid a dispute over food. Authorities confirm that Richard Futrell, aged 46, was arrested around 12:45 p.m. after an altercation with a poll worker regarding a buffet intended for election officials.

Witnesses report that Futrell became irate when informed he could not partake in the food prepared at the Metropolitan Baptist Church. According to an incident report obtained by local news, he confronted the poll worker, declaring he was “entitled to” the food due to the loss of his SNAP benefits under former President Trump’s administration.

The situation escalated quickly as Futrell allegedly “stepped in her face” and verbally berated the worker, leaving her feeling “intimidated” and fearing for her safety. Other voters at the polling location expressed concern for their own well-being, with one woman stating she had to “stand back” as Futrell confronted the worker.

As tensions mounted, Futrell reportedly blocked the entrance, disrupting the voting process. “At this point,” the report notes, “the suspect had willfully and without lawful authority interfered with, as well as delayed, the voters’ ability to access the poll location.” Authorities attempted to remove him from the premises, but Futrell refused to comply, further agitating the situation.

The chaos culminated when police officers intervened, leading to physical resistance from Futrell. He allegedly yelled aggressively at officers, with one claiming he felt spit from Futrell during the confrontation. After a struggle, officers managed to place him in handcuffs.

Prosecutors from the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office requested a bail of $1,000 for Futrell, who now faces multiple charges including assault and battery on a police officer, disturbing a public assembly, interfering with an election official, interfering with a voter, and resisting arrest.

Judge Rebecca Figueroa has ordered Futrell to stay away from the poll worker involved in the incident, highlighting the serious nature of his actions during a critical democratic process.

This incident raises significant concerns regarding voter safety and the integrity of polling places. Authorities are urging the public to remain calm and respectful while exercising their right to vote. As this story develops, further updates will be provided.

Stay tuned for more details as the situation unfolds. The implications of such disruptions on the electoral process are profound, and community leaders are calling for immediate action to prevent further incidents.