Brockton Mayor Moises Rodrigues was released with conditions Friday after being arraigned on a misdemeanor assault and battery charge stemming from an allegation involving a Brockton High School student.
Rodrigues pleaded not guilty during Friday’s hearing. His release conditions require him to stay away from the alleged victim and from Brockton High School.
The charge follows a court hearing in August in which a judge found probable cause to charge Rodrigues. The allegations stem from a May parade, where Rodrigues was seen marching and dancing alongside participants. A Brockton High School student performing with the marching band alleges that Rodrigues touched her in a way that made her uncomfortable.
Rodrigues’ attorney noted that the mayor also serves as chair of the Brockton School Committee, which holds meetings at the high school. The judge recommended that Rodrigues attend future meetings virtually.
Rodrigues’ next court hearing is scheduled for Nov. 6.
Following Friday’s hearing, Rodrigues addressed the allegation and suggested that some people believe the case is politically motivated.
“I am the first minority mayor elected in Brockton and I haven’t seen anyone go through this nonsense,” Rodrigues said. “I am disappointed, to be honest with you.”
According to court documents, the school’s music director is listed as a witness and reportedly saw Rodrigues with his arm around the student, who was a member of the marching band.
Rodrigues previously apologized after being told that his actions had made the student uncomfortable. He has maintained, however, that he does not recall the specific interaction. He also said there is no video evidence of the alleged encounter.
Friday’s arraignment follows earlier court proceedings involving a harassment prevention order sought by the student. A judge later terminated that order.
This report includes information from WCVB NewsCenter 5 reporting.
