A Michigan man is facing felony charges after allegedly attacking a Black female postal worker in what authorities describe as a racially motivated assault. Russell Frank Valleau, 61, of Farmington Hills, is accused of confronting the woman with a knife after she attempted to deliver a political flyer supporting Vice President Kamala Harris. According to police, Valleau hurled racial and sexist slurs at the postal worker, telling her he did not want that “Black b—ch” in his mailbox.

Valleau was arraigned on charges of felony ethnic intimidation and misdemeanor assault and battery, to which he pleaded not guilty. He is being held on a $25,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court for a preliminary hearing on October 27. If convicted, Valleau could face up to two years in prison and a $5,000 fine. The postal worker, who managed to defend herself with pepper spray before fleeing to safety, was unharmed. Police apprehended Valleau shortly after in a neighbor’s yard.

The incident occurs amid heightened political tensions as the 2024 campaign season ramps up. Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald condemned the attack, emphasizing that no one should face violence for their race or political beliefs. “Hate crimes impact all of us, and we will vigorously pursue all such cases,” McDonald said. Farmington Hills Police Chief Jeff King also reiterated the department’s commitment to addressing attacks rooted in hate, ensuring that the community remains safe and inclusive for all.