Woman Accused Of Spitting On Black Teen Tests Negative For COVID

SHOREWOOD, WI — The Shorewood attorney who is facing hate crime charges after she was accused of spitting on a black teenager during a George Floyd-related protest march has tested negative for COVID-19, a local attorney says.

According to information forwarded to Patch by attorney Michael Maistelman, Stephanie Rapkin had the test administered to her on Saturday. Maistelman is representing a local student who was confronted by Rapkin in front of her house the day after the reported spitting incident.

Speaking before reporters two days after the spitting incident, Shorewood High School student Eric Lucas said he was "mentally and physically shaken" by the events.

"I feel disappointed in feeling unloved by individuals who I have done no harm to," he said. "Our family does not hate, but does request that justice be prompt and appropriate."

According to state law, Stephanie Rapkin could serve up to 18 months prison if she's convicted of the disorderly conduct-hate crime charge against her, which is considered a misdemeanor. She could also serve up to three years behind bars if convicted of the battery charge against her, which is considered a felony crime.

Rapkin, 64, was arrested twice within 24 hours after police say she spat on a teenage protester June 6 during a protest march, shoved a protester the next day on June 7 in front of her home and later kneed an officer in the groin before she was taken to jail.

Authorities say Rapkin, who works as an estate planning and probate attorney with an office in Mequon, was booked into the Milwaukee County Jail after she was arrested the second time. She now faces criminal charges, and a complaint with state law regulators.