Father, Son Get Into Tussle With Barrington Police Officers

A Barrington father, 54, and his son, 17, were arrested early last Friday morning, May 31, after an angry and physical confrontation with Barrington police officers in the driveway of their home.

Donald Masi, of 431-B Maple Ave., and his son both face charges of disorderly conduct and obstructing a police officer in executing his duties. The boy also faces a simple assault charge.

Barrington Police Chief John LaCross said the ugly confrontation started when the boy left Barrington High School on so-called “senior prank day” by allegedly spinning the tires on his car and speeding out of the parking lot after almost striking an administrator. A police officer followed him to his home.

Before Patrol Officer John Sgagliardich could get out of his car, said LaCross, Masi came out of his house and began berating the officer for “picking on his son.” 

“The man was infuriated and got into a hysterical rant,” said LaCross, including a wild flailing of his arms and making demands that the patrol officer get off his property.

His son came out of the house soon after the heated verbal confrontation began, LaCross said, and allegedly starting screaming and swearing at the police officer as well. 

At some point, the police chief said, Masi and the police officer began struggling with each other and Masi’s son allegedly jumped the police officer from behind to try to pull him away from his father.

With the help of two other patrol officers who responded, the father and son were eventually handcuffed and brought under control, LaCross said.

Masi complained of pain in the rib area and was taken to Rhode Island Hospital by Barrington EMTs for an examination. He was issued a summons to appear in District Court to face the charges. 

His son was taken to the police station, where he was charged. He was released into the custody of his mother with a court date.