1 Count: VCO POSSESSION OF DANGEROUS WEAPONS

Narrative: 

On Friday, April 17th, 2026, I, Detective John Howe was assigned to the City Hall detail as well as inspectional services liaison for the police department. While removing illegal posters that were posted on City Of Somerville property in the Davis Square area per section 9-48 of the City Of Somerville City ordinance, utilizing a small razor blade to remove the posters, a group of 8-10 unhoused individuals walked up to me and surrounded me.

I identified myself as a Somerville Detective as well as provided my badge and Police ID to the individuals. At this point Mr. James Howard brandished a 3.5 inch black folding knife and I ordered him to drop the knife approximately 3-5 times to which he refused to do so. At this point numerous other marked Somerville Police cruisers arrived and we were able to use de-escalation techniques and the knife was retrieved from Mr. Howard's person. We then placed Mr. Howard in handcuffs and told him he was under arrest for the following charge:

-1 count of a City of Somerville Ordinance violation 9/96: VCO Possession of a Dangerous Weapon

Mr. Howard was transported back to Somerville Police Headquarters by Unit 200, Officer Timothy Sullivan and booked in the usual manner by Lieutenant Paul Anderson.

I would like to note that the black knife that was located inside of his jacket pocket was approximately 3.5 inches. Per Somerville, MA City Ordinance (Chapter 9, Section 9-96) prohibits carrying knives with blades exceeding 2.5 inches in public, unless used for work, hunting, or innocent purposes.

Respectfully submitted,

Detective John Howe