Cop's Plea Deal Over Metallica Gig Assault

7 months ago 11th Apr 04:40

A Massachusetts cop who urinated over fans at a Metallica concert has pleaded guilty to a series of charges in connection with the incident.

Joseph Houston was accused of exposing his privates and harassing a family after downing several beers during the gig in Boston in January (09).

He was discharged from the police force following the incident, and faced charges of assault and battery, open and gross lewdness, and trespassing.

But in a plea deal this week (begs06Apr09), Houston agreed to admit to certain facts and a finding of guilty on the trespassing charge and the assault and battery charge.

If he abides by those conditions for the duration of the continuance, the cases will be dismissed. If he doesn't, then they go to trial. Houston's attorney, Thomas Drechsler, said the ex-cop has now put the matter behind him

He avoided the felony charge of open and gross lewdness, pleading guilty to a lesser charge of assault and indecent exposure.

As part of the deal, Houston must undergo alcohol treatment and cannot contact the family he terrorised.

He must also repay his victims the $2,631 (£1,800) they spent to attend the concert.

Jake Wark, spokesman for Suffolk District Attorney Daniel Conley, says "If he abides by those conditions for the duration of the continuance, the cases will be dismissed. If he doesn't, then they go to trial".

Houston's attorney, Thomas Drechsler, said the ex-cop has now "put the matter behind him".