UPDATE: A Boston judge has just released Richard Futrell, a 46-year-old man charged with assaulting a police officer during a chaotic incident at a Dorchester polling place over food. The confrontation occurred around 12:45 p.m. on September 26, 2023, when Futrell claimed he was “entitled to” a buffet provided for voting officials due to the loss of his SNAP benefits under former President Trump.
Boston Municipal Court Judge Rebecca Figueroa has mandated that Futrell stay away from the poll worker involved, who reported feeling “intimidated” during the outburst. The situation escalated when Futrell confronted the worker after she informed him he could not take food from the buffet at Metropolitan Baptist Church, leading to a disturbance that alarmed other voters.
According to an incident report obtained by the Herald, Futrell allegedly “stepped in her face and continued to verbally berate her,” prompting onlookers to feel unsafe. A voter waiting to cast her ballot described having to “stand back” as Futrell became increasingly agitated, insisting he deserved the food due to his financial struggles.
As tensions rose, voting officials asked Futrell to leave the premises. However, he reportedly blocked a doorway, preventing others from entering. The police officers on duty intervened, but Futrell became combative, refusing to comply with their orders. He began recording the confrontation and allegedly yelled at officers, one of whom felt he was being spat upon during the exchange.
The situation escalated further when Futrell pushed an officer trying to escort him out. Officers eventually subdued him after a struggle, placing him in handcuffs. The Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office has requested a bail of $1,000 for Futrell, who now faces multiple charges, including assault and battery on a police officer and interfering with an election official.
This incident sheds light on the heightened tensions surrounding voting locations and the emotional strain many feel due to financial hardships. As authorities continue to address the fallout, all eyes will be on the upcoming court proceedings to see how this case unfolds.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as the implications for local elections and community safety are significant.
