Full Breakdown
District 5 Councilor Etel Haxhiaj's Legal Challenges Continue
11/20/2025, 3:35:14 AM
Overview of the Charges
District 5 Councilor Etel Haxhiaj is facing legal challenges stemming from her actions during a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrest on May 8, 2025, on Eureka Street in Worcester. Haxhiaj has been charged with assault and battery on a police officer and interference with police. On November 19, 2025, a Worcester court denied her motion to dismiss these charges, allowing the case to proceed to trial, which is scheduled for February 10, 2026.
Court Proceedings and Reactions
During the hearing, Haxhiaj expressed her disappointment with the judge's decision, stating, "I am profoundly disappointed by the judge's decision to move the charges forward." She has consistently maintained her innocence, emphasizing her commitment to protecting a constituent during the ICE arrest. Haxhiaj's attorney, Elizabeth K. Halloran, indicated plans to file a motion to sever her case from that of Ashley Spring, a former School Committee candidate facing similar charges related to the same incident.
Haxhiaj's case has garnered national attention, including coverage from The New York Times, particularly following her unsuccessful bid for reelection on November 4, 2025, where she lost to Jose A. Rivera. Rivera's term is set to begin on January 2, 2026.
Legal Context and Defense
The presiding judge, Janet J. McGuiggan, noted that the offense of assault and battery requires "a touching, however slight," and stated that Haxhiaj is free to argue her defense at trial. Haxhiaj's defense centers on her assertion that any physical contact was unintentional, a point she plans to contest in court.
In a related case, Ashley Spring's motion to dismiss was also denied. Spring's attorney, Carlton E. Williams, argued that the evidence presented was distorted, particularly regarding an incident where Spring allegedly sprayed officers with an "unknown liquid" from a baby bottle. Williams contended that the officers were aware the liquid was water but chose to mischaracterize it. Judge McGuiggan rejected this argument, stating that the alleged distortion did not warrant dismissal.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of the charges argue that they are politically motivated and stem from Haxhiaj's advocacy for immigrant rights. Haxhiaj has publicly stated, "I will not trade truth for lies," reinforcing her position that her actions were in defense of a vulnerable community member.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I am profoundly disappointed by the judge's decision to move the charges forward,” — Etel Haxhiaj, District 5 Councilor
- “A few months ago, I rejected a deal that required me to admit to an action I did not commit,” — Etel Haxhiaj, District 5 Councilor
- “Justice is on our side," Williams said.” — Carlton E. Williams, Attorney for Ashley Spring
What's Next
Haxhiaj is scheduled to return to court on December 15, 2025, for further proceedings. The upcoming trial in February will be critical in determining the outcome of the charges against her and may have implications for her political future and community advocacy efforts.
