REVERE, Mass. (MyFoxBoston.com) -- A Wakefield man is accused of violently attacking several police officers in Revere while making references to the events of Ferguson, Missouri.
Police say that the first officer was hurt early Tuesday morning while working a detail on Revere Beach Parkway at Mill Street. Officials say that a man later identified as 34-year-old Joseph Parker of Wakefield, allegedly became combative toward officers.
According to police documents officers were stopping traffic when the Parker allegedly sped at the officers then stopped quickly. He rolled down window and started yelling at the officers “I know why you stopped me” along with profanities and references to the events in Ferguson.
After that Parker allegedly exited his car and punched an officer in the face, knocking him unconscious and sending him to the hospital. Police say the attack was unprovoked.
“Sucker punched him if you will. He went down, he hit either a piece of equipment or the ground,” Revere Police Chief Joseph Cafarelli said.
Police say a second officer working the detail was also assaulted at the scene before other witnesses were able to help get the man under control.
When backup arrived officers said Parker was combative while they were putting him in the back of a cruiser and a stun gun was used to help subdue him
Once at the station, police say Parker continued to be violent and attacked three more officers.
Parker was arraigned at Chelsea District Court and was held on $25,000 bail. Parker was charged with assault and battery, assault and batter on a police officer (four counts), disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, attempting to injure a police officer and malicious destruction of property over $250.
Parker had recently been released from prison after being convicted on drug trafficking charges. His lawyer says Parker's behavior may have been medication related.
Cox Media Group
