Hopkinton man arrested after SWAT standoff

October 12, 2014 3:42 pm

By News Staff

Rhode Island State Police arrested a Hopkinton man Saturday afternoon after a domestic dispute and threats to police.

Hopkinton Police responded to the Side Hill Road duplex after reports of a domestic disturbance. Upon arriving, the victim told police that Michael Neugent, 42, held her down and choked her with both his hands before she escaped.

Neugent then threatened officers, saying he had a weapon and would use it if they entered. Rhode Island State Police were called to aid the situation and neighbors were evacuated.

State Police negotiators communicated with Neugent through text message before the SWAT Team responded. They entered the residence at 11:50 p.m. for fears Neugent would harm himself.

Before being taken into custody, Neugent swung a four-foot level at a SWAT member, hitting his shield and cracking the level.

Neugent was taken to Westerly Hospital for evaluation. He was arraigned Sunday morning and charged for Domestic Assault, Domestic Disorderly Conduct, Threat to a Public Official, Assault with a Deadly Weapon, and Resisting Arrest.