EVERETT — Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan and Everett Chief of Police Paul Strong announced that John Thomas McNeil, 41, of Everett, has been arraigned on hate crime charges following an alleged assault that began with a traffic dispute.
McNeil faces charges of assault and battery to intimidate based on race, a civil rights violation, reckless operation of a motor vehicle and operating with a suspended license.
According to investigators, on March 16, the victim and McNeil were stopped at a red light at the intersection of Route 16 and a local street.
When the light turned green, McNeil’s vehicle reportedly remained stationary, prompting the victim to honk his horn.
Authorities say McNeil then followed the victim, driving aggressively and blocking him from turning into his driveway when he reached home.
McNeil allegedly exited his vehicle while shouting racial slurs at the victim.
When the victim stepped out of his car, McNeil reportedly assaulted him, pushing and striking him in the face while continuing to yell racial slurs.
McNeil fled the scene but was later identified by police.
At his arraignment yesterday in Malden District Court, McNeil’s bail was set at $500.
His next court appearance is scheduled for May 28.
