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MISHAWAKA, Ind. — REAL News Michiana has learned the Vice Chair of the St. Joseph County Republican Party violently attacked Republican County Councilman Dan Schaetzle during the party’s monthly meeting on Saturday morning. In what was supposed to be a celebration of GOP wins this election cycle, some party members and party leaders instead used it to attack fellow conservatives both verbally and physically. Now, RNM has confirmed the Mishawaka Police Department is investigating the incident.
According to 20 different witnesses who spoke to RNM, the incident started when County Councilwoman Amy Drake took to the podium during the meeting to lambast fellow Republicans who do not agree with her platform (which includes defunding the St. Joseph County Police Department). Drake took direct aim at Schaetzle, who worked diligently to make sure our county officers got the raises they deserve. According to witnesses, Schaetzle called out Drake during her speech, attempting to correct several lies she was telling the audience of GOP members.
Schaetzle then took to the podium, where he passionately defended himself and a large faction of the party who has not been happy with the direction of the GOP’s leadership. After two minutes, Schaetzle was told his time was up. Schaetzle told the GOP leadership team that he was going to continue. At that point, GOP Vice Chair Joe Layne stood up and ripped the microphone out of Schaetzle’s hand, breaking it. Schaetzle then turned to speak to the audience without the microphone. At that point, Layne physically shoved Schaetzle.
According to witnesses, a well-known local MMA fighter (who RNM will not name) jumped into the middle of the two men, telling Layne to back off as it appeared he was going to continue his physical assault. Schaetzle said a few more words before leaving.
“It all started because of Amy Drake.” One witness told RNM. “Everyone was stunned. We were supposed to be celebrating, uniting under the wins. Drake just wanted to fight.”
“Adults should be able to disagree without violence.” Another witness told RNM. “Joe (Layne) should resign. I hope he’s charged with a crime, he definitely committed one.”
According to sources at the Mishawaka Police Department, the case will be referred to an MPD detective. From there it will be sent to the St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office for consideration of a Misdemeanor Battery charge.
It’s important to note, there were more than 100 people who attended the meeting. Meaning there are more than 100 witnesses to the attack.
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