By Jim Clark

Police officers were dispatched to the Mt. Vernon restaurant on Broadway last week on reports of an intoxicated individual who was refusing to leave.

Upon arrival, the officers encountered the manager of the restaurant and its owner, along with the customer in question, later identified as John Delaney, of Charlestown.

According to reports, Delaney appeared to be agitated and was arguing with the restaurant management staff.

The manager reportedly told police that Delaney had been barred from the restaurant some time earlier. The officers were also told that Delaney had gone into the kitchen area, which is a restricted access area to employees only. Delaney then mock punched the manager in the gut, after which was told to leave the restaurant, but refused to do so.

As the officers attempted to speak with Delaney, he started pacing back and forth while yelling profanities at them and the restaurant personnel. He reportedly stated, “I don’t like people who call the cops!”

The officers advised Delaney that he was causing a disturbance and that he should calm down. After a few minutes, the officers were able to calm Delaney’s belligerent behavior. he reportedly told them that he was waiting for a friend to pick him up, then would be leaving.

After a short period of time, while waiting to see if Delaney would be picked up, the officers noted that the restaurant manager and owner came outside and exchanged words with Delaney.

The officers could not hear what was said, but it agitated Delaney and he began shouting and walking along the sidewalk.

The officers followed from a distance to ensure public safety due to Delaney’s agitated state.

Delaney was yelling while walking in and out of the street. At the time, it was rush hour, and Broadway was busy with heavy traffic, along with heavy foot traffic on the sidewalk, according to reports.

Delaney suddenly stopped and turned around to face the officers. He reportedly punched his fist against his hands several times, then pointed at the officers.

The officers noted that a pedestrian scrambled to walk around Delaney as he flailed his arms in the air.

The officers called for backup, then informed Delaney that he was under arrest and placed him into handcuffs. Due to Delaney’s large physical stature, they had to use two sets of cuffs.

Delaney was subsequently transported back to the station for booking on a charge of disorderly conduct.