Newport Man Charged with Felony Domestic Assault

NEWPORT, RI—A 27-year-old Newport man was charged with felony domestic assault with a deadly weapon and domestic disorderly conduct after he allegedly assaulted a woman in a Harold Street apartment early Sunday morning.

Police said Christopher Bryan Watts, of 1 Harold St., Newport, was arrested Sunday after police investigated the alleged assault following a complaint from the victim.

According to a police report, the victim, while at Newport Hospital for treatment for a laceration, told police that Watts became violent after a day of drinking that began at the St. Patrick's Day Parade on Saturday.

The victim said that she was arguing with Watts in the apartment when she decided to go to sleep.

She then was woken up by Watts who was yelling. He also punched the walls, police said, and threw a marble lamp, striking the victim in the head.

Watts then followed the victim into the bathroom where he reportedly ripped down the shower curtain and then shoved the victim to the ground.

The victim said that another person at the apartment took Watts aside for a few moments, which gave her time to get dressed and leave.

By then it was about 3:30 a.m., according to the police report, and police eventually went to the apartment and found Watts, who said he was remorseful for the incident.

Police said Watts admitted to throwing the lamp, which was seized as evidence. He also pointed out holes in the walls and other damage caused by the violence.

Police said that Watts sent several messages to the victim after she left, stating he was being "immature," "I'm sorry" and "we need to talk."

Watts was taken into custody without incident and later released on $2,500 surety bail with a March 16 court date.