Mayor Shaunna O’Connell of Taunton is facing domestic assault charges after an altercation with her husband, Ted O’Connell, on Friday night. Court documents revealed that the mayor allegedly bit her husband and hit him with a small gasket cleaner during a heated argument over marital issues. Shaunna pleaded not guilty to assault and battery charges in court on Monday.
Following the incident, Ted O’Connell called the police, leading to Shaunna’s arrest. However, he later told reporters that it was a mistake to involve the authorities and apologized to his wife and the people of Taunton. The couple released a joint statement expressing that they have been working through marital issues and asking for privacy as they handle the matter.
Shaunna O’Connell, a former Republican state representative, began her third term as mayor earlier this year. She had served in the Massachusetts House of Representatives from 2010 to 2020 before being elected as mayor. The mayor was released on bail and is scheduled to appear in court again in September.
The news of the mayor’s arrest has sparked controversy in Taunton, with residents expressing shock over the allegations. Mayor O’Connell’s political career may be at risk due to the charges, and the situation has raised concerns about her ability to effectively lead the city. The case continues to develop, and residents are closely following the legal proceedings.
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