Two people have been arrested in connection with a road rage incident that occurred Monday evening on Thames Street, according to a press release issued Thursday by the Newport Police Department.
The incident took place Aug. 11 at approximately 9:44 p.m. near America’s Cup when a motorist reported being followed and surrounded by four motorcyclists who revved their engines and caused damage to the victim’s vehicle, police said.
Newport police officers Michael Maggiacomo and Nathaniel Whipple responded to the scene as the motorcycles fled the area. Officer Whipple located one motorcyclist and conducted a motor vehicle stop while Officer Maggiacomo arrived to investigate with the victim.
Detective Justin Vachon of the traffic unit conducted a follow-up investigation the next day, obtaining statements and gathering evidence to identify the motorcyclists involved.
Two suspects turned themselves in Tuesday and Wednesday, police said. Both were charged with disorderly conduct, with one also receiving motor vehicle citations. The investigation remains ongoing for the other two motorcyclists.
“This arrest and continued ongoing investigation demonstrate the commitment of the Newport Police Department’s swift enforcement towards motor vehicle laws and public safety on the streets,” said Sergeant Jason Head, traffic unit supervisor, in the release.
The department said it “does not tolerate behavior that endangers or intimidates other motorists or the public and will continue to work with the community on enforcement to keep our streets safe for all.”
The names of those arrested were not released by police.
