Man accused of attacking Rep. Zeldin speaks publicly
[anvplayer video=”5165399″ station=”998131″]
ROCHESTER, N.Y. — David Jakubonis, the man accused of attacking Congressman Lee Zeldin at a campaign event in Perinton, says he’s grateful for the treatment he’s received for his alcohol addiction.
The army veteran spoke publicly at his federal court hearing on Wednesday. A judge sent Jakubonis to an in-patient alcohol treatment center in October. Now, he has finished his stay at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Bath and is under house arrest at a local recovery home.
The judge called Jakubonis’ progress a “positive report”. Here is the video of his pre-prepared statement:
“I simply want to say that I’m greatly appreciative for the opportunity that the court, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Bath VA have given me to successfully complete the initial steps of recovery,” he said.
Jakubonis is accused of pulling Zeldin by the arm to the ground as Zeldin was speaking during a campaign event in July for the race for governor. Zeldin was not injured.
Jakubonis didn’t apologize to Zeldin. His lawyer says Jakubonis regrets what happened but can’t make any admissions of guilty while charges are pending.
We might learn about a possible plea deal at the end of March.
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