Crime & Safety

Two Arrested After Car Does 'Doughnuts,' Rolls Over At Playground

The following arrest information was supplied by the Portsmouth Police Department. It does not indicate a conviction.

Two men were arrested early Wednesday morning after allegedly lying about a rollover car crash on Anthony Road. No injuries were reported. 

were called to Anthony Road near the Common Fence Point Playground. A vehicle had apparently rolled over near the playground around 1:30 a.m. Witnesses told police they saw two men leave the scene of the crash. 

An investigation led police to 25-year-old  of 87 Dighton Ave., who had been given the vehicle to operate, police said. 

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Officers went to Sanford's house to check on his well-being and the other man's condition after the crash. However, when officers arrived, Sanford allegedly began to act disorderly. 

"Upon arrival, Sanford was upset at the officers' presence," said Lt. Brian Peters. 

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Sanford allegedly struck an officer in the chest with his hand. He then allegedly continued to resist arrest while being placed into handcuffs, police said. Sanford allegedly began to yell and swear at the officers. 

Sanford was charged with simple assault, obstruction of an officer in the execution of duty, resisting arrest, vandalism and disorderly conduct. 

Police also arrested 21-year-old Matthew Botelho of 97 Massasoit Ave. Botelho was charged with obstruction of an officer in the execution of duty. 

Police say Botelho denied any involvement in the crash at first, stating he was in Tiverton at the time. Botelho later admitted to being the passenger, police said. 

The investigation later revealed the vehicle did "doughnuts" in the park area before it rolled over, police said. 

Both men were held overnight at the police station. 


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