Michigan Man Convicted for Racist Attack on Postal Worker Over Political Ads

In Farmington Hills, Michigan, a jury found 62-year-old Russell Frank Valleau guilty of assault on a federal employee following an incident last October. Valleau confronted a Black postal worker delivering mail to his home, angered by political advertisements featuring Kamala Harris. While intoxicated, Valleau aggressively approached the postal worker's vehicle, shouting racist slurs and offensive comments directed towards both Harris and the mail carrier herself. Reports indicate Valleau explicitly expressed his disdain for receiving materials featuring Harris, using crude and racist language.

The situation escalated rapidly as Valleau pulled out a knife and attempted to attack the postal worker. In self-defense, she used pepper spray to repel him, prompting Valleau to flee the scene. Authorities located and arrested him shortly thereafter in a nearby neighbor's yard.

Even while in police custody, Valleau continued his verbal attacks, repeatedly using racial slurs against the victim and refusing officers' warnings to modify his behavior. Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald stressed that political differences and opinions must never lead to violence or threats against anyone due to their race or professional duties. She emphasized the severe effects hate crimes have on the entire community.

Ultimately, though Valleau was acquitted of charges related to using a dangerous weapon, the jury unanimously determined the attack was explicitly racially motivated, intentionally targeting the postal worker because of her race. After the verdict, Acting U.S. Attorney Julie Beck condemned Valleau's behavior and stated firmly that such hateful actions have no place in society.

Valleau is scheduled for sentencing on May 27 and could face up to one year in prison.