Due to financial, social, and health-related concerns, the coronavirus pandemic has been hard on everyone – and for many people, that added hardship comes with heightened emotions. It's hard to accept the “new normal” that characterizes daily life. In some cases, grief and anger related to the new policies and procedures intended to keep us safe can result in outbursts and even violence.

Among the most visible symbols of the pandemic, masks have been a contentious topic since states began issuing mandates in March. In addition to their health, essential employees nationwide now face the added risk of violence associated with enforcing mask mandates and social distancing guidelines. As a result, reports of verbal and physical attacks on retail workers across the country are on the rise – and so is the number of individuals now facing criminal assault charges.

When Anger Turns to Violence

Last month, misplaced ire over a theme park's mask policy permanently altered the lives of those who were involved in the altercation. In Langhorne, Pennsylvania, a man and a woman from New York City were charged in connection to the assault of a 17-year-old staff member at Sesame Place, a children's theme and water park based on the popular show Sesame Street.

The suspects in this case are Troy McCoy, 39, and Shakerra Bonds, 31. They attempted to visit the park without wearing masks, which have been mandated statewide in all public spaces by Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf to help stop the spread of COVID-19.

When the Sesame Place employee reminded McCoy and Bonds about the mask policy, the teen was allegedly assaulted by the suspects. The 17-year-old male employee required surgery for a fractured jaw and injuries to his teeth and spent a week at St. Mary Medical Center receiving treatment. According to police, another Sesame Place employee was also punched in the face by Bonds during the incident.

“We have issued a lifetime ban to the individuals involved for all of our parks across the country,” Sesame Place said in a statement. “The safety of our team members and guests remains our top priority.” But for McCoy and Bonds, being banned from the theme park is the least of their worries.

You Don't Have to Face Your Charges Alone

Assault and battery are among the most common charges defendants face, and convictions often carry significant consequences. Everyone is deserving of fair and knowledgeable representation in court, as well as someone on their side who is well versed in the law.

Being charged with a crime can be overwhelming, but you don't have to go it alone. If you find yourself accused of assault, you need a lawyer who will protect your best interests. Your lawyer will work to analyze evidence, precedent, local laws, and more to ensure that you obtain the most favorable outcome possible.

For unparalleled expertise with defense assistance, you can rely on attorney Joseph D. Lento and the Lento Law Firm. Call us today at (888) 535-3686 or contact us online.