Alderman Ricardo Munoz arrested for domestic violence incident, police say

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Alderman Ricardo Munoz has been arrested in connection with a domestic violence incident, Chicago police said.

The alleged incident occurred at his home in the 3000-block of South Lawndale on New Year's Eve. Police said Munoz got into a verbal argument with his wife and it escalated and became physical.

His wife told police the alderman pushed and struck her throughout her body. Police said Munoz left the home after his wife called police.

Munoz was taken into custody Wednesday at his 22nd Ward office in the 2500-block of South St. Louis Avenue in the Little Village neighborhood.

Munoz has represented the 22nd Ward for 25 years. Throughout this time, he has hit some rough patches - struggling with alcoholism and the arrest of his estranged father for a fake ID ring.

Munoz announced last summer that he was not going to run for another term, putting his support behind 22nd Ward Committeeman Michael Rodriguez.

Neftalie Gonzalez, who is running to replace Munoz, said he finds the accusations troubling.

"Well this is a black eye to the community. What we need is positive news, something that helps this community," Gonzalez said.

22nd Ward Aldermanic Candidate Lisette "Liz" Lopez, who is a domestic violence survivor, said in a statement: "If the allegations are true, Alderman Munoz should be held accountable for his actions and his position in city council should not be a factor here. This situation should not be taken lightly."

Munoz' wife did suffer some injuries, but refused treatment, police said. Munoz is set to appear in court on Thursday morning.