A New York man has been arrested after allegedly assaulting a Trump supporter inside a grocery store because the victim was wearing a “Trump 2024” hat. The suspect, identified as 60-year-old Robert Yott of Bath, New York, reportedly attacked the victim, causing broken teeth and a bloodied mouth, police said.
The Village of Bath Police Department stated that the incident occurred on the morning of November 1 at Tops Friendly Markets. According to a press release, Yott confronted the Trump supporter over the hat and became aggressive, punching the victim multiple times in the head and face. Police report that the two men did not know each other, and the assault appeared to be random.
Trump supporters can't even wear a hat, they might be assaulted…
BREAKING: Man arrested for violently assaulting Trump supporter at New York grocery store: policehttps://t.co/qe2y5UO7r5
— The C-Span Review (@CSpanreview) November 3, 2024
Yott has been charged with assault in the second degree, a Class D felony, and criminal mischief in the fourth degree, a Class A misdemeanor. He was taken to the Steuben County Jail, where he awaits arraignment, according to police.
The attack adds to a pattern of reported violence against Trump supporters. In previous incidents, Trump supporters have been assaulted for expressing their political views. In June, an 82-year-old man in Massachusetts was reportedly attacked for holding a Trump sign. Earlier this year, a 64-year-old New Jersey man known for displaying pro-Trump messages was allegedly attacked with a sledgehammer, resulting in serious head injuries.
Trump supporter assaulted at grocery store for wearing 'Trump 2024' hat: Police https://t.co/lJ95C0eHeA
— BR why are you following me (@br2723) November 3, 2024
Bath police are urging the public to report any information related to similar acts of political violence. As Yott awaits arraignment, the incident underscores ongoing concerns about politically motivated violence across the country.
