N.J. Councilwoman Faces Charges After Sister Fight

PASSAIC, N.J. (CBS 2) -- A New Jersey lawmaker was facing charges of aggravated assault after, police said, she punched and kicked her sister, causing several broken bones.

Clifton City Councilwoman Mary Sadrakula didn't answer questions as she left court Tuesday morning, moments after pleading not guilty to charges of domestic violence aggravated assault.

Police said Sadrakula got into an argument with her sister late Sunday night, punched her in the face and pushed her to the ground. Her attorney, Jeffrey Simms, said the accusations were untrue.

"It was a bad night out. It was midnight. It was very slippery and when she was walking down the street, I believe she may have injured herself," Simms said. "There may have been some words, but that doesn't necessarily convert to what happened according to her story."

The argument may have stemmed from a disagreement over weight between the sisters, but Simms said his client didn't take it further. He blames the alleged victim for starting the fight.

"She used some expletives, describing her sister and somebody else, and indicated the reason 'you don't like me because I'm thin'," he said.

Sadrakula is a Passaic native, elected to the Clifton City Council last year. She campaigned on open, honest government and holding elected officials responsible.

So far, she has not made public comments herself concerning the incident.

People just learning of the councilwoman's arrest had mixed reactions.

"It's just shocking, I mean it is, ugh" said resident Raymond Hinson.

"I feel as if they're human beings and they have the right to be heard. There are three sides to every story: his, hers and the truth," said resident Maryann Paz.

Sadrakula was due back in court March 16 to face charges of aggravated assault. She was free on $1,500 bail.