TAUNTON, MASSACHUSETTS – A former crossing guard in Taunton, Massachusetts, is facing an additional charge for allegedly assaulting news professionals who were covering a separate assault case on Monday. Louis Chaves, 68, appeared in court after allegedly striking a mother with the stick of his stop sign, according to prosecutors.
During the incident, Chaves was captured on camera having an altercation with numerous news crews, leading to his arrest by the Bristol County District Attorney’s office. He now faces charges of Assault and Battery with a Dangerous Weapon, Assault and Battery, and Assault with a Dangerous Weapon.
Assistant District Attorney Shawn Guilderson stated, “Chaves assaulted one cameraman, striking him before kicking him in the left side.” Despite these allegations, Chaves did not interact with reporters during his return to court the following day, observed by an NBC 10 news crew.
Chaves’s attorney mentioned that he has no prior criminal history and has a speech impediment that causes him difficulty speaking and interacting with reporters, leading to anxiety. Despite a motion to revoke his bail being denied during a Tuesday hearing, Chaves was ordered to undergo a mental health evaluation while his bail remained at $250.
The incident involving the former crossing guard sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals with speech impediments when dealing with the media or legal matters. This case highlights the importance of considering individuals’ unique circumstances and providing appropriate support and accommodations when necessary.