Renewed push to strengthen police/community relations in wake of Prov. brawl

In the wake of a massive brawl in Providence on Tuesday night, police and community advocates say improving relations is vital.

"There might have been some miscommunication there. They might not of known why he was in the police car, maybe some false facts were brought out. This was a man that was in possession of a loaded weapon,” said Maj. David Lapatin.

Seven people were arrested and two officers were hurt in the melee described in police reports to involve around 100 people.

The situation started with police noticing a group of people hanging outside of a house known for gang activity. It ended with dozens of people screaming and pushing while police tried to arrest 18-year-old Andrew Brown.

"My initial reaction is one of sadness and concern,” said PJ Fox the Executive Director of the Rhode Island Institute for Non-Violence.

Fox says the current national climate has brought a lot of distrust when it comes to community/officer relations.

"We need to get to the root causes,” said Fox. “We have to solve this emotional problem. And, it’s going to be a long hard journey that we have to get to that point. And, I think the best way to do that is coming from a place of I want to solve this."

Providence police were back in the Broad Street neighborhood on Wednesday trying to strengthen those relationships.

"We really don’t want to disconnect with the community over one incident. We have a very good relationship with the community,” said Lapatin. “So, we’re back there today trying to heal some wounds from last night."

(C) WLNE 2016