Patient At Westport Mental Health Facility Accused Of Racist Assault

WESTPORT, CT — A 28-year-old North Haven man, who was a patient at St. Vincent's Behavioral Health center, was arrested by Westport police last week in connection with what authorities said was an unprovoked, racial assault on another patient at the facility.

Richard Christiansen was arrested on a warrant Friday in connection with the incident; he was charged with second-degree assault and first-degree intimidation due to bias/bigotry.

The incident began when Westport police were notified of a fight at the Long Lots Road facility on Feb. 29.

"Upon arrival, responding officers determined that the victim and suspect were separated," wrote Westport Police Lt. Eric Woods in a statement. "The victim was receiving medical care and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The investigation revealed that the suspect, identified as Richard Christiansen, allegedly assaulted the victim by punching them in the face and then kicking them in the head while on the ground. Witnesses reported that the attack was unprovoked, and the investigation revealed that the assault allegedly occurred because of the victim’s race."

Christiansen was moved to the Whiting Forensic Hospital, but was transported to Westport Police Headquarters for Friday's arrest.

He is being held in lieu of bail of $275,000, and is scheduled to appear in Stamford Superior Court on May 14.