The leader of a union representing Boston police officers expressed concerns about a recent street takeover in the city, describing participants as being “determined” to confront law enforcement.
The Boston Police Department reported that more than 100 individuals participated in the takeover, which involved street racing just after 2 a.m. on October 5.
Law enforcement discovered more than 100 people attempting to target police vehicles using fireworks, traffic cones, poles, and other materials.
One police vehicle was set ablaze and needed to be towed from the scene, according to officials.
Larry Calderone, president of the Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association, stated in an interview with Fox News Digital that those involved in the street takeover were intent on attacking police officers.
“They were aware of their intentions, and they were determined to confront police officers. However, this is not something that happens regularly,” Calderone commented.
Calderone noted that the street takeover spanned four different locations before concluding in the South End of Boston.
“What transpired last weekend escalated quickly, moving through several neighborhoods before culminating in a couple of spots in Boston. Each location they visited seemed to witness an increase in aggression,” he remarked. “By the time they reached the downtown South End area, it appeared to be a coordinated effort.”
“If you are coming from outside Boston to disrupt, assault police officers, or cause chaos, we don’t want you here,” Calderone emphasized.
He added that this was the first street takeover he could recall in over a year, highlighting how different it was.
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“This incident is significant due to the blatant attack on police officers. Loud revving and tire spinning is one thing, but directly assaulting officers and endangering public safety is absolutely intolerable,” Calderone stated.
Simran Nalhatra, a witness to the street takeover, described the scene to 25News, stating, “It felt like a riot.”
“We saw someone being arrested, and when we looked over, there was a cop car on fire,” Nalhatra recalled. “It was genuinely frightening. I was puzzled by the loud noises, and there was chaos for an hour or two.”
During the street takeover, two individuals were apprehended: Julian Bowers, 18, from Cumberland, Rhode Island, and William Cantwell, 19, from Warwick, Rhode Island.
They face charges of assault and battery on a police officer, resisting arrest, disorderly conduct, and malicious destruction of property valued over $1,200.
Bowers is accused of throwing objects at both police officers and vehicles, while Cantwell allegedly used a pole to strike a police cruiser.
The two defendants have pleaded not guilty. The judge set bail at $500 for Bowers and $1,000 for Cantwell. Both were observed celebrating with fist bumps after hearing the bail amounts, according to CBS News.
Prosecutors had sought $15,000 cash bail for Bowers and $20,000 for Cantwell.
