Brian X. McCrone

Philly Streets Commissioner Faces Charges for Assault: DA

A top official in Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney's administration was charged Friday with assault in an alleged attack in December that left a person with broken ribs, according to law enforcement officials.

Streets Commissioner Donald Carlton, 45, allegedly punched someone multiple times in the face and body, the Philadelphia district attorney's office said Monday. An official with the DA said the alleged attack took place at a party back on December 6 last year on American Street.

Sources close to the investigation told NBC10 the alleged victim is a longtime friend of Carlton's wife. Carlton began arguing with the man and accused him of kissing his wife, according to sources. Carlton allegedly dragged the man out of the front door of a home, threw him into metal porch furniture and then repeatedly punched him.

"I just heard a loud noise and people screaming," said Lesha Marmorejos, Carlton's neighbor. "I looked out the window and saw someone falling over the steps."

The person attacked suffered fractured ribs and a bruised left eye, according to the DA's office. He told NBC10 he suffered permanent eye damage after the incident.

Kenney spokeswoman Lauren Hitt said Carlton is now on leave of absence.

“Donald Carlton is on a leave of absence until further notice. Deputy Commissioner Mike Carroll will serve as Acting Commissioner effective immediately," Hitt said.

Carlton posted $2,500 bail and is scheduled for another hearing June 7, according to court records.

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