Middletown Man Arrested in Newport for Fighting

NEWPORT, RI—A 19-year-old Middletown man was arrested by Newport police on Monday for allegedly fighting with another man on Thames Street.

Police said Rajae Messam, of 192 Rogers Lane, approached the victim and started the fight at around 10:30 p.m.

According to a police report, Messam shoved three girls out of the way to confront the victim, who threw a punch to defend himself but missed. The two men then grappled for a few moments and ended up falling into a window at 433 Thames St., causing it to shatter. Messam ran off but was captured by police a short time later without incident.

Police said they viewed video surveillance footage that showed the incident unfold.

Messam is being charged with disorderly conduct and vandalism. He was held overnight for arraignment Tuesday.