Michigan man charged with assaulting mail carrier over political mailer

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A Michigan man has been charged with assaulting a mail carrier after the delivery of a “Kamala Harris for President” mailer to his mailbox. Russell Valleau, 61, of Farmington Hills, was charged by authorities in Oakland County with one count of ethnic intimidation, a felony, and one count of assault and battery, a misdemeanor.

According to a press release from the Oakland County prosecutor’s office, Valleau became upset upon receiving the political mailer and allegedly threatened the mail carrier, using derogatory language. The situation escalated when the mail carrier used pepper spray in response to Valleau's actions.

Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald emphasized the importance of protecting individuals' rights to express their political opinions, stating that no one should be assaulted or threatened for their race or while performing their job. She reiterated the county's commitment to vigorously pursue cases related to hate crimes.

Valleau is currently being held at the Oakland County jail. If convicted of ethnic intimidation, he could face up to two years in prison and/or a fine of up to $5,000. The misdemeanor assault charge could result in a maximum 93-day jail sentence and/or a fine of up to $500.

Michigan remains a pivotal state in the presidential election, with recent polling indicating a close race between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump.