WhistleDowne

WhistleDowne
Inside The Box: Where the Truth Lives and the Streets Talk
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 LAWSUIT: Mount Vernon Mayor Accused of Tipping Off Friend Before Child Molestation Arrest

Serious allegations have surfaced against Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard in a newly filed lawsuit that accuses her of alerting a close friend that he was about to be arrested for allegedly molesting a 12-year-old girl — giving him a two-week head start before his eventual arrest.

The legal complaint, filed by Mount Vernon resident and community conduit Gabriel Thompson, claims the mayor used her political influence to shield the man, delaying justice for the child victim and potentially interfering with an active criminal investigation.

“This isn’t just unethical — it’s dangerous,” Thompson stated. “No public official should ever obstruct the pursuit of justice, especially when it involves the safety of a child.”

According to the lawsuit, Mayor Patterson-Howard allegedly tipped off the accused prior to law enforcement’s attempt to detain him, allowing time for him to potentially destroy evidence or flee. The suspect was eventually arrested, but the delay has prompted outrage within the community. Calls for an independent investigation are intensifying as citizens demand accountability and transparency from city leadership.

The mayor’s office has not yet responded to requests for comment. If the claims are substantiated, this case could lead to both civil and criminal consequences — and further shake the trust between Mount Vernon residents and their elected leadership.

In The Box Media will continue to investigate and provide updates as more information becomes available.