A library assistant at the Belfast (Maine) Free Library has been charged with assault after allegedly striking a patron during a July 10 dispute over library computers. Mark Burns, 41, a part-time employee, is accused of punching David Geoffrion, 48, after Geoffrion expressed his intention to use a floppy disk in the computer, which is against library regulations.
Belfast Police Chief Allen Weaver said that during the argument, “Mr. Burns struck Mr. Geoffrion in the face twice with his fist.” The men began to wrestle on the floor, where Burns continued to punch Geoffrion until bystanders intervened, the Associated Press reported July 12.
Burns had been scheduled for promotion to full-time status by the Belfast City Council that evening, but the appointment was tabled and his employment status is under review. Interim Library Director Steve Norman would not comment on the incident.
Posted July 16, 2001.