The New Black Panther Party member who sparked national outrage and a federal investigation in 2008 after he was captured on video brandishing a billy club at a Philadelphia voting poll has been arrested in New York.
King Samir Shabazz, a national field marshal for the NBPP who in the past has called for the extermination of white people, was taken into custody in Harlem a few days ago after police noticed him wearing a bulletproof vest and carrying a fully loaded, unlicensed handgun, the Philadelphia Daily News reported. His real name is Maruse Heath, and he was in New York to help plan an event set for September to recognize the 15th year of the Million Youth March, Fox News reported.
He was transported to jail for illegal gun possession and the illegal wearing of body armor, Fox News said. He faces from 3½ to 15 years in jail.
Meanwhile, NBPP heads say Mr. Shabazz is a “political prisoner” and they’re planning to rally in his support in Harlem next week, the Daily News said.
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
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