Former school board member ordered to anger management

FAIRFIELD — A former Fairfield City Schools Board of Education member who unsuccessfully ran in the Nov. 8 election has been ordered to pay court costs and complete an anger management course.

Arnold Engel, 56, was convicted of criminal mischief Thursday in Fairfield Municipal Court stemming from an incident with David Kozak of Palm Springs Drive over campaign fliers.

In October, Kozak, 51, said he was fed up with Engel’s campaign literature “littering his street.” He collected several fliers from his neighborhood, drove to Engel’s Firestone Drive home and tossed the fliers in the front yard while Engel was outside. Kozak said Engel then kicked his Audi S4, causing damage, and Fairfield police were called.

Engel was cited into court on a charge of criminal mischief, a third-degree misdemeanor, for which he was convicted on Thursday.

“Although I really don’t feel like I should have to take the class, I’m kind of anxious to see how they can help me deal with people like Mr. Kozak. This stuff happens to me on a regular basis,” Engel said.

Engel said he’s looking into filing a citizen complaint against Kozak, but will consult with his attorney before he decides to do so.

Police have said Kozak would not face charges.

Contact this reporter at (513) 483-5237 or Kelsey.Cano@coxinc.com.

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