David Mejias, a Democratic candidate for New York State Senate and former Nassau county legislator, was charged this morning with “second-degree menacing, second-degree reckless endangerment and third-degree stalking” of his ex-girlfriend.
Mejias was arrested Wednesday evening after his ex-girlfriend reported that earlier in the day, in Matinicock, NY, he had followed her in his car. According to a press release provided by the Nassau County Police Department, “the defendant passed her and abruptly stopped causing the victim to stop her vehicle. Mejias exited his vehicle and approached the victim yelling and screaming at her. When the victim drove away from the scene the defendant continued to follow her.”
Mejias is challenging incumbent Sen. Kemp Hannon to represent Nassau County’s 3rd district in Long Island. He has previously served for six years in the Nassau County legislature.
Late Update: Mejias released a statement earlier today, asserting that he “will be completely exonerated of all charges.” Here’s the full text:
As reported, last night I was arrested on misdemeanor charges. As a county legislator, I fully supported the policy in Nassau County that mandates that any person implicated in a possible domestic dispute be arrested immediately regardless of whether the facts have been established.
Even after a night in jail, I strongly support the policy. I have nothing to hide, and have every confidence that when the facts are known and established I will be completely exonerated of all charges. I am fully cooperating with law enforcement in their investigation.
I have spent a lifetime, both as a private citizen and as a county legislator, working for equality for all, regardless of gender, race or sexual orientation. My work as a pro-bono attorney for, and my unwavering support of, the Coalition Against Domestic Violence and the victims they so passionately protect is well documented.
It is my core belief that domestic violence of any kind should never be tolerated.
When I entered the race for State Senate in the 6th district, I did so to continue and expand upon the work I have done to protect Long Island families. The values of equality for all and equal protection and safety under the law have shaped me and embodied all facets of my life, both personal and professional.
Through the actions of Albany politicians, we have seen that they are more concerned about protecting the dysfunctional status quo than protecting these fundamental rights and protections that every New Yorker are entitled to.
My passion to uphold these values has not been diminished by these unfounded allegations. I am grateful for the outpouring of support from friends, family, colleagues and supporters. I will be taking these next few days to develop with them a plan to ensure that the progressive change in Albany that Long Island families so desperately need moves forward.
