Police: Man punched woman, 69, at Asheville Trump rally
ASHEVILLE (WTVD) -- Police have a warrant out for Richard L. Campbell of South Carolina for punching a 69-year-old woman outside the Asheville Donald Trump rally Monday, ABC affiliate WLOS reported Tuesday.
Asheville Police said there was also a warrant out for Thomas Vellanti Jr, who hit three people inside the rally venue.
Asheville police charged Vellanti with disorderly conduct.
Vellanti, of Flat Rock, turned himself in Tuesday afternoon.
The altercation began as several young people were being escorted out by security from the upper deck of the arena.
As they were walking down the steps, a man in the crowd grabbed a male protester around the neck and then lightly punched him. He then slapped at a woman being led out.
Asheville police release the following statement Tuesday:
We are aware of the additional assault that took place inside of the venue during the rally that is depicted in a video being circulated on social media and on several media outlets. During the incident the victim and witnesses were escorted out of the rally by the Secret Service and Trump's private security. This morning the Asheville Police Department followed up on the incident and obtained warrants for the suspect, Thomas Vellanti Jr.
We also responded to a report of an assault that took place outside the rally involving an older female victim. Officers responded to that incident, along with EMS, and took statements from the victim and witnesses. Warrants for the suspect, Richard L. Campbell were obtained last night. Following the report, officers gave the victim a ride to her home.
Upwards of 6,000 filled the U.S. Cellular Center as Trump took the stage to thunderous applause on Monday night.
WATCH: Donald Trump's full speech in Asheville
A handful of protesters were ejected from the rally and a small group was outside the Cellular Center harassing Trump supporters as they were leaving.
