An Easton woman has been arraigned on a civil rights violation after an alleged racial assault at a Brockton Market Basket.
Gloria Downey, 65, of Easton was arraigned Wednesday in Brockton District Court on two criminal complaints. Downey faces a civil rights violation, malicious destruction of a vehicle, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, and assault and battery to intimidate. A not guilty plea to all charges was entered on her behalf.
This stems from an incident in February, where Downey is accused of using racial slurs toward a Haitian-American woman who was shopping at the Brockton Market Basket.
Family members of Lola Jean-Baptiste – the alleged victim – filled the courtroom in support.
“When we look at the people that showed up today, I consider them to be the congregation of justice for the City of Brockton,” said Bishop Tony Branch, Vice President of the Brockton NAACP chapter. “We’re happy that people showed out. We believe that the criminal justice system will prevail. We will continue to support Lola and her daughter as they go through this.”
Downey did not speak at the arraignment, and followed court officers out at the conclusion.
“I’m very happy to see all the support for my mother,” said Corie Blain. “It shows that strangers can have such compassion for something that didn’t even affect them at the time. I’m happy that more people are becoming aware of what’s happening so it doesn’t happen again.”
Downey was released on personal recognizance and is due back in court on May 8th.
