NEW BEDFORD, Mass.- A priest was taken to a hospital for further evaluation after being injured during an alleged assault at Mount Carmel Church in New Bedford Monday evening.
Just after 5:15 p.m., officers responded to the church on Bonney Street for a report of a man arguing with a priest, according to the City of New Bedford Police Department.
Police identified the man as Jose Nascimento, 59, of Purchase Street. Officers said they observed Nascimento involved in a physical altercation with the priest and a bystander who was assisting.
According to police, Nascimento had entered the church and began knocking over items on the altar. A physical confrontation then occurred as the priest escorted him outside.
Police said the priest sustained a minor facial injury after being punched and struck with a beer can. He was transported to a hospital for further evaluation.
Nascimento was arrested and charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, assault and battery, threat to commit a crime, disturbing the peace and disorderly conduct.
Subscribe to The Shrewsbury Post Updates
