Martin Gugino is the 75-year-old protester who made headlines recently. Earlier this month, Gugino was shoved by cops during a peaceful protest. His lawyer issued a statement about the man’s injuries.
In recent weeks, a video of a cop shoving Gugino has been circulating. In it, Gugino falls backward onto the sidewalk and cracks his head after the shove. His head begins bleeding. Unfortunately, the officers walk by and ignore him.
As a result, the officers involved face second-degree assault charges. Officers Robert McCabe, 32, and Aaron Torgalski, 39, have pleaded not guilty. Officials released them without bail.
The initial police statement said that Gugino simply tripped and fell. However, videos of the incident prove that incorrect. Police later amended the statement.
The officers are under suspension without pay. An investigation is underway.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo spoke out after viewing the video. He called the incident “wholly unjustified and utterly disgraceful.”
However, other politicians are skeptical. One America News Network pushed a conspiracy theory involving Gugino. President Donald Trump spread the theory on Twitter, suggesting that Gugino is an “ANTIFA provocateur,” and that the injury “could be a set up.”
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In a statement to CNN, Gugino’s attorney revealed that the elderly man suffered a skull fracture. As a result, Gugino can no longer walk.
“I am not at liberty to elaborate at this time other than to confirm that his skull was fractured,” Gugino’s attorney said. “While he is not able to walk yet, we were able to have a short conversation before he became too tired. He is appreciative of all of the concern about him but he is still focused on the issues rather than himself.”
Kelly Zarcone, Gugino’s attorney, passed along a message from the elderly protester:
“I think it’s very unnecessary to focus on me. There are plenty of other things to think about besides me.”
Gugino’s main focus right now is getting better. He remains in rehabilitation. His attorney expects things to be stable for the time being.
“Barring something unusual and unforeseen, I don’t expect much change this week,” said Zarcone. He may also need arthritis pain treatment.
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