Conviction In Punching, Slapping Offense At OC Political Rally

HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA — A Sacramento woman was found guilty of slapping a man at a political rally at the Huntington Beach area Bolsa Chica State Beach two years ago, the Orange County District Attorney's office announced.

Jessica Aguilar, 23, of Sacramento was convicted on Aug. 14, 2019 of one misdemeanor count of battery for slapping a man in the face twice at a March 2017 "Make America Great Again" political rally.

The attack was captured on video, showing a flurry of sand and fists during the heated exchange.

Aguilar will serve 10 days Cal Trans work and three years probation, along with 20 days in jail if her road work is incomplete within an allotted time.

“The Orange County District Attorney’s Office does not condone random acts of violence,” said Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer. “With political dissension on the rise across the country, it is important to remember that right to protest is afforded to everyone; no one has the right to commit an act of violence against someone because they don’t agree with their views. If someone chooses to commit violence, they will be prosecuted.”

According to Spitzer, the increase in political demonstrations has been accompanied by an increase in professional protesters who travel the country inciting violence by baiting demonstrators into attacking them.

Even still, all violence, regardless of whether or not it was instigated, will be prosecuted by the Orange County District Attorney’s Office.