A flag football match that ended in a double stabbing has led to attempted murder charges in Fall River, according to the Taunton Gazette.
Justin S. Farland, 20, was arrested Wednesday night and charged with two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon and two counts of attempted murder. Farland is being held in the Bristol County House of Correction on $50,000 bail. Erika DeSousa, 20, was released on $5,000 bail and is charged with four counts of being an accessory after the fact. Farland is accused of stabbing two victims at Teamworks, an indoor sports facility on Lees River Avenue, and handing the knife to DeSousa.
The charges against DeSousa illustrate how friends of someone accused of a crime can also face criminal charges. Such charges result when authorities allege a friend was involved in a crime in any way. It is likely that authorities hope charging her will induce her to cooperate and testify against Farland. The pair should consult an experienced Fall River criminal defense attorney right away.
The fight broke out between the Fall River Beavers and the Taunton Terrors and sent two men to the hospital with stab wounds. Both men were transported to Rhode Island Hospital, where one was treated for wounds to the lungs and liver and the other suffered a punctured lung.
Police report that Farland fled in a white van and was picked up shortly after the incident. He was released a few hours later because of a lack of evidence. Police report they interviewed more than 30 people and watched videotape taken by Teamworks management. They contend that the tapes show Farland coming off the bench to join a 20-man brawl that erupted with about eight minutes left in the game.
Investigators say videotape shows him fleeing the building and putting the knife in a car driven by DeSousa. The knife has not been found.
If you are facing criminal charges in Fall River, including assault charges, weapons charges, drug charges or OUI, contact Fall River Criminal Defense Attorney Michael DelSignore to discuss your rights.
The Law Offices of Michael DelSignore are conveniently located in Stoughton and Attleboro. Call (508) 455-4755 for a free consultation, 24 hours a day, including weekends and holidays.
