Boston

Dispute Over Mask Policy Leads to Arrest at Chris Rock Show

The man was charged with assault and battery on a police officer, as well as disorderly conduct and trespassing

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Chris Rock's first public performance since he was slapped by Will Smith at the Oscars didn't involve any on-stage violence.

However, one man was arrested at The Wilbur Theatre in Boston following a dispute over the establishment's masking policy, according to city police.

Kaleb Anthony Herd, 26, of Quincy, was arrested at the show and is facing charges including assault and battery, assault and battery of a police officer, disorderly conduct and trespassing.

Prosecutors with the Suffolk County District Attorney's Office said Herd assaulted three people, including a person with whom he attended the show.

"Police and prosecutors deal with crimes that are heartless. They deal with crimes that are tragic. They deal with crimes that are brutal. And then they deal with crimes that are just senseless. This falls in the last category," Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden said in a statement. "Hopefully the next time Mr. Herd attends a public event he'll be smart enough to adhere to the basic rules."

At Herd's arraignment Thursday, Judge Tracy-Lee Lyons released him on personal recognizance. The judge ordered him to have no contact from two of the victims and not to abuse the third, who went to the show with him. He must also stay away from the venue, prosecutors said.

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