Taunton Mayor Charged in Domestic Assault

Taunton Mayor Shaunna O’Connell has been arrested and charged with domestic assault and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon following a marital dispute. The incident, which occurred on July 19, involved O’Connell allegedly biting her husband's arm and striking him with a gasket scraper. Her husband, Edward O’Connell, called the police during the altercation, expressing regret for involving them. O’Connell appeared in court where not guilty pleas were entered on her behalf, and she was released with restrictions against contacting her husband. Both the mayor and her husband have acknowledged challenges in their 27-year marriage and are requesting privacy as they navigate this personal matter. The Bristol County District Attorney’s Office is assigning a special prosecutor to avoid a conflict of interest in the case.