17 Arrested in After-Hours Biker Clubhouse Melee With Providence Police

17 Arrested in After-Hours Biker Clubhouse Melee With Providence Police

Seventeen people were arrested in Providence early Sunday morning in what was called a "complete melee" between police and people at an after-hours bikers hang out.

The incident occurred at 403 Charles Street shortly after 3 AM, when an officer was there to ticket cars parked illegally on the street.

According to Providence police, the location is a known after-hours clubhouse used by bikers. 

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Police say that as the officer was having one of the vehicles towed, an individual got into the passenger side of the vehicle and attempted to retrieve an unknown item.

The individual was given a command to get out of the car, and when he refused, he pushed the officer, according to Providence police. 

When the individual was placed under arrest, other officers on the scene said a large group of people began to circle -- and outnumber -- the officers on location. 

Large Scale Altercation Ensues 

Police say when they attempted to disperse the crowd, another officer was shoved and denied entrance to the parking lot of the club. 

At this point, police reported that there was yelling and agitation among the crowd with "violent" tones -- and one member of the group began to threaten officers. 

That individual was reportedly going to be taken into custody for disorderly conduct before he fled to the back of parking lot, at which point officers pursued and subdued the individual with OC spray. 

Police reported being outnumbered at this time, and placed an assistance call for backup units to clear the parking lot, including a transport van.

Seventeen people were ultimately arrested, and face a range of charges including simple assault and obstruction, resisting arrest, disorderly conduct, and threats against public officials. 

Police say a firearm was found in the parking lot and seized.