Providence firefighter accused of punching police officers at Johnston bar
Jan 06, 2025
JOHNSTON, R.I. (WPRI) — A Providence firefighter was arrested over the weekend after he allegedly assaulted two police officers at a Johnston bar.
Officers responded to The Ave Bar and Grille on Hartford Avenue around 11:50 p.m. Saturday for reports of a man causing a disturbance.
Police said the man, later identified as 42-year-old Patrick Brearley, appeared "extremely intoxicated and disoriented." Despite requests for him to leave and offers to take him to the hospital, Brearley refused to comply, according to police.
As the officers started to escort Brearley outside, he allegedly resisted, pulling away and clenching his fists, which prompted police to take him to the ground.
Police said he then punched one officer in the face and, during efforts to handcuff him, struck a second officer.
The officers were eventually able to gain control and take Brearley into custody. After being discharged from the hospital, he was charged with simple assault, resisting arrest, and disorderly conduct.
Brearley is scheduled to be arraigned on Friday. Police said the officers involved were not seriously injured.
12 News has confirmed that Brearley is still an active firefighter and the department is investigating the incident.
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