MARION, AL (WSFA) – Police in Marion say a 31-year-old man assaulted Mayor Tony Long in the mayor’s office at city hall Tuesday.
Investigators say Lionel Hinton walked into Long’s office and allegedly struck him on the head twice with a land line telephone.
Police say the assault happened Tuesday morning around 11:30. They say it appears Hinton was upset over an argument Long had with Hinton’s wife, who is the city clerk. The argument between the mayor and Mrs. Hinton reportedly happened before Monday’s city council meeting and centered around an administrative issue.
Marion police say Hinton faces one count of second degree assault, which is a felony. Perry County Jail records show Hinton posted property to make his $50,000 bond.
Long declined to address the incident Wednesday, but part of his office was still in disarray Wednesday.
The mayor told police he planned to see a doctor Wednesday to get checked out. Long has been the mayor in Marion for 10 years.
Lionel Hinton referred all questions to his attorney who has yet to return our call.