Two Boston Police officers were injured on Friday night while placing a man in custody on Boston Common.
Police said the officers were on foot patrol near Tremont and Park Streets at 5:39 p.m. when they saw the man smoking in the park, which is a violation.
After speaking with the man, who was identified as Joseph Demaio II, 31, of New Haven, Connecticut, the officers learned he was wanted on an outstanding warrant for a parole violation in Connecticut.
While attempting to place Demaio in custody, police said a violent fight broke out. At that time, a crowd had gathered around and some people began filming the incident on their cellphones.
Police said additional officers arrived on scene and Demaio was placed in custody.
The two injured officers were taken to an area hospital to be treated for head and knee injuries. They were later released.
Police said Demaio received minor lacerations during the incident.
U.S. & World
Demaio is scheduled to appear in Boston Municipal Court on two charges of assault and battery on a police officer and disturbing the peace before he answers his parole violation in Connecticut.
