An 18-year-old man was allegedly assaulted by another 18-year-old man on Spring and Second streets May 17 about 8 p.m.

Sheriff’s deputies are investigating whether the alleged assault was racially motivated; the alleged victim is African American.

Injuries were unknown. There were several witnesses, Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Charlie Silverman said.

The suspect was arrested, charged with fourth-degree assault, and later released. He has pleaded innocent, Undersheriff Jon Zerby said Thursday.

If the alleged assault is determined to have been racially motivated, the suspect could be charged with malicious harassment, Silverman said.