Taunton man arrested for using mop as weapon, disabled person as human shield

October 28, 2016 1:37 pm

By: News Staff

news@abc6.com

TAUNTON, MASS. — A Taunton man has been arrested on multiple charges after using a mop as a weapon, and a disabled person as a shield against a Taunton police officer.

Police say on Wednesday, around 11:50 a.m. police responded to a call from the Taunton Housing Authority at 30 Onley St, for reports of an unwanted person running from floor to floor, screaming and yelling, and causing a disturbance.

Upon arrival, police found 73–year–old Frank Silva, of Winthrop St, and kindly informed Silva that he was requested to leave the property.

According to Patrolman John Munise, Silva was also offered transportation to a location of his choosing, but he refused.

Munise says after refusing to leave Silva placed a disabled tenant seated in a wheelchair between himself and Munise as a human shield.

Silva then armed himself with a mop and began swinging the mop in an aggressive manner.

Munise quickly contacted dispatch to request assistance due to people beginning to congregate in the hall.

Two additional officers arrived and were able to arrest Silva on charges of assault with a dangerous weapon, disorderly conduct, disturbing the peace and resisting arrest.