Binghamton Police Chief Joseph Zikuski’s girlfriend has been charged with harassment after an altercation in Johnson City.
The Johnson City Police Department responded to a reported dispute on July 18 at a residence on Ackley Avenue. At the scene, officers determined the complainant’s son, a 16-year-old boy, and his 18-year-old friend were on their porch when a verbal dispute occurred with their neighbor, 44-year-old Susan Rice.
Rice allegedly walked onto the victim’s porch and punched both teenagers before being struck once by the 16-year-old and falling to the floor.
Neither of the teens suffered injuries during the altercation. Rice received medical treatment for her injuries.
On July 21, Rice appeared at the Johnson City Police Department where she was interviewed by detectives and charged with second-degree harassment, endangering the welfare of a child and trespass.
Rice was issued an appearance ticket and will appear in Johnson City Court at a later date.
A video of the altercation circulated on social media over the weekend. On July 20, City of Binghamton Mayor Jared Kraham said Zikuski had been placed on administrative leave after an altercation involving his girlfriend. Zikuski was off duty at the time and was present during the altercation.
This article originally appeared on Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin: After Johnson City altercation, Binghamton police chief on leave, girlfriend charged
Reporting by Jillian McCarthy, Binghamton Press & Sun Bulletin / Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin
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