DC's deputy mayor charged with assault and battery over parking lot fight

Authorities have charged Washington, D.C., Deputy Mayor Chris Geldart with assault and battery in connection with an incident at a parking lot Saturday.

Geldart allegedly hit another man's car door with his car door, resulting in an arguing that led to the Gelbert allegedly grabbing the other man by the throat, according to The Hill newspaper.

The office for Mayor Muriel Bowser, a Democrat, said it was taking steps to examine the incident but expressed hope for a quick end to the matter.

"We take any accusations seriously and are reviewing the matter," a statement from Bowser's office read, per the outlet. "Unfortunately, it sounds like something that happens to a lot of people — a dispute over something minor — and we hope it is resolved quickly."

Bowser appointed Geldart in January to serve as deputy mayor for Public Safety and Justice. He previously led the District's emergency response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Geldart is on leave, pending review, The Hill also reported.