Hugs, handshakes when Thomas, Hagan meet in court

YOUNGSTOWN — A physical altercation between an area politician and a college student has come to an end with one year probation, a fine, and hugs and handshakes throughout the courtroom.

Dorian Thomas, 30, of Youngstown, was set to appear for a preliminary hearing today before Judge Elizabeth Kobly of Youngstown Municipal Court on a felonious assault charge.

Thomas ultimately pleaded to a misdemeanor charge of assault with a recommendation of probation from prosecutors. The plea followed the Feb. 6 incident at the Lemon Grove Cafe in Youngstown in which Thomas punched state Rep. Robert F. Hagan after a confrontation.

Judge Kobly sentenced Thomas to a one-year probation and ordered him to pay a $100 fine.

After Hagan and Thomas addressed the court, the men took a moment to shake hands and exchange pleasantries at the rear of the courtroom. Thomas also hugged Hagan's daughter, who was knocked down during the altercation at the downtown bar.

For more on this story see Wednesday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com.