Reelected Missouri lawmaker arrested on assault charges

Missouri state Rep. Anthony Ealy Jr. was arrested in Jefferson City on Nov. 4, a day after winning reelection with 68% of the vote, following reports of disturbances and threats. Police and witnesses alleged that Ealy trespassed at an apartment and threatened a couple, then caused a scene outside a business, mentioned having a gun, lunged at someone and threatened to kill them. He faces misdemeanor assault and disturbing-the-peace charges; reports differ on the precise assault charge. Ealy denied making threats or mentioning a firearm and said he had been pushed and chased by someone carrying a bat. An arrest report described him as possibly experiencing a panic attack or mental health crisis, while Democratic leaders reportedly had previously urged him to address personal issues and step away from politics.