Not all neighbors get along and while sometimes conflict between neighbors may simply lead to verbal disputes or isolation, there may be some scenarios in which disputes could grow out of hand. Should a disagreement turn physical in nature, the outcome of an ensuing altercation could impact the lives of all parties involved. A law enforcement officer in Massachusetts has been placed on leave after a physical altercation with a neighbor left him facing assault and battery charges.
Physical altercation
Law enforcement agents say they responded to reports of a physical altercation on a recent Monday. They claim the incident began when an off-duty police sergeant was walking down the street in a local neighborhood when he suddenly hit his neighbor’s car with a paddle board. Once the driver stepped out of the car, the man allegedly punched him and proceeded to push him down to the ground.
Upon arriving at the scene, authorities say they encountered a man with various injuries to the face and eyes. When questioned about the incident, the police sergeant claimed that the other man provoked the physical altercation by stepping out of his vehicle and raising his hand to strike first. Following an investigation into the incident, the police sergeant was placed on leave from duties and is facing charges of assault and battery.
Assault and battery
A conviction for assault and battery carries serious penalties that could have a significant impact on a person’s life and career. With so much at stake, those who face similar concerns may find it helpful to consult with an attorney as soon as possible for guidance in making informed choices about their cases. An attorney in Massachusetts can examine the incident, provide insight into all of a client’s legal rights and options, and help create a strategy with which to pursue the best outcome achievable regarding his or her future during subsequent court proceedings.
