How To Get Arrested 101

As with so many great arrests, this one begins with a simple infraction. William Bernard, 38, of Edgartown was issued a parking ticket yesterday afternoon. According to police, his truck was one of several work vehicles ticketed along High Street in Edgartown. In the How Not to Get Arrested version, he pays the ticket.

Bonus Feature: What not to say to a cop, "when I get out of work, I am going to come find you."

What fun would that be? Rather than challenging the ticket in court or paying the fine, Mr. Bernard proceeded to threaten the traffic officer, allegedly calling him a b*%@#, telling him that he will "kick his ass." Line drawn, line crossed.

The traffic officer reported the altercation to other officers on duty who responded to the scene only to become victims of more viscous taunting. The good thing about local, small town law enforcement is that they will usually put up with a little good natured ribbing. In this case, however, the accused became irate and was causing a disturbance by drawing a crowd with his poor behavior. Even as the officers attempted to walk away, Mr. Bernard followed them, continuing his rant. Another line drawn and crossed. At this point Mr. Bernard's behavior became inexcusable and he was placed under arrest and charged with  Disorderly Conduct (talking trash), Threats to Commit a Crime (talking smack), and Assault (gettin' up in it).

Now, don't think that this was the beginning or the end of this episode for our inspired subject. Earlier that day he had been pulled over for Erratic Operation. He told the officer he was eating a sandwich. Mr. Bernard was later released on $1,000 bail. But, when he showed up late to court today he forfeited that bail, was rearrested and is now being held without bail until Thursday, when class will resume.