SMITHTOWN, NY — Smithtown Deputy Supervisor Thomas McCarthy said he agreed to the dismissal of an assault charge against fellow Councilman Thomas Lohmann, saying he hopes the resolution will allow town officials to move forward after an alleged altercation earlier this year.
"In the best interest of the Town of Smithtown, I have agreed to a dismissal in the case," McCarthy said in a statement.
The statement comes after a Suffolk County First District Court disposition certificate showed that the third-degree assault charge against Lohmann was dismissed this week.
The charge stemmed from an April 7 incident during a closed-door executive session at Smithtown Town Hall.
Lohmann was arrested April 8 at his Smithtown home and issued a field appearance ticket for third-degree assault, a misdemeanor, Suffolk County police previously told Patch.
Police said at the time that Lohmann struck a 68-year-old man in the shoulder with an open hand and punched him in the jaw. The man suffered minor injuries, police said.
Newsday identified the man as McCarthy, who told the outlet that Lohmann struck him multiple times during a heated discussion in executive session.
"While the events that gave rise to this matter were difficult for my family and I, I believe there comes a time when healing is better served by looking forward rather than looking backward," McCarthy said. "My decision is rooted in choosing a path that promotes understanding, respect, and the opportunity for everyone involved to move forward."
McCarthy also emphasized the responsibility of elected officials to work together despite disagreements.
"Public service is ultimately about serving others," he said. "As elected officials, we are entrusted by our residents to work together for the good of our community, even when disagreements arise."
McCarthy said he bears no ill will toward those involved and hopes the resolution will help restore trust and civility.
"I hope this resolution allows us to put this chapter behind us and refocus our attention on the responsibilities that matter most to the people we represent," he said.
In his own statement, Lohmann thanked his colleagues and Smithtown residents for their support.
"With this matter conclusively closed, my focus remains exactly where it has always been," Lohmann said. "I am energized and entirely dedicated to delivering strong, uninterrupted, and results-driven representation for the people of Smithtown."
McCarthy said he hopes the resolution brings peace to those involved and allows town officials to move forward with renewed professionalism and a shared commitment to the community.
"I am grateful for the support, encouragement, and understanding I have received throughout this process, and I look ahead with optimism toward a more positive future for everyone involved," he said.
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