Boston Man Charged After Polling Place Food Dispute

UPDATE: A dramatic incident unfolded at a Dorchester polling place on September 26, 2023, when Richard Futrell, 46, was charged with assaulting a police officer amid a chaotic dispute over food. The situation escalated after Futrell confronted a poll worker about a buffet intended for voting officials, claiming he was “entitled to” the food due to changes in his SNAP benefits by former President Trump.

Around 12:45 p.m., Boston Police, monitoring the polls at Metropolitan Baptist Church, intervened after Futrell verbally berated a poll worker who informed him he could not take food from the official spread. The worker described feeling “intimidated” as Futrell stepped into her space, leading to alarm among other voters.

According to an incident report obtained by the Herald, Futrell’s agitation grew as he continued to rant about his government assistance being cut. This outburst reportedly shocked and alarmed voters, prompting officials to demand his exit from the polling location.

Futrell did not comply and allegedly blocked a doorway, hindering other voters from entering. Officers, witnessing this disruption, ordered him to leave. However, he became combative, even recording the officers as tensions escalated.

During the confrontation, Futrell allegedly yelled aggressively at officers, with one claiming he felt spit from the suspect. He then pushed an officer attempting to direct him out, which led to a struggle and ultimately his arrest. Futrell was handcuffed after resisting police efforts to maintain order.

Prosecutors from the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office requested a $1,000 bail for Futrell, who now faces multiple charges, including assault and battery on a police officer and interfering with an election official.

Judge Rebecca Figueroa has ordered Futrell to stay away from the poll worker involved in the altercation. This incident highlights the heightened emotions surrounding voting and public resources, especially in an election year.

As authorities continue their investigation, this unfolding story serves as a reminder of the tensions that can arise at polling places and the need for strict adherence to election laws. Keep an eye on this developing situation for further updates.