Elementary school teacher chokes friend at bar in fight over politics, Illinois cops say
An Illinois teacher was arrested after authorities said he strangled a man during a discussion about politics.
Michael Belden, 52, was charged Feb. 18 with aggravated battery involving strangling and aggravated battery of a person over 60, court records show. Attorney information for Belden was not available.
Winnebego sheriff’s deputies responded Feb. 17 to reports of a fight at a brewery, WIFR reported, citing court filings.
A 65-year-old man told investigators he was discussing politics with Belden, who he said was his friend, when Belden lunged at him and choked him, the outlet reported.
Surveillance video shows the men talking for about two minutes before the 65-year-old man flipped Belden off, WTVO reported.
Belden then grabbed the man by the throat, telling police he acted in self-defense, according to the outlet.
Belden is listed as a teacher at Jean McNair Elementary School in Winnebago, according to the school district’s website.
In a letter to families obtained by WREX, the Winnebago Community Unit School District said it will “conduct its own investigation into the alleged situation and will take any necessary actions.”
District officials said they “cannot comment on the law enforcement investigation, potential criminal prosecution, or related legal procedures.”
Winnebego County is about a 95-mile drive northwest from Chicago.
