New Bedford man released after being arrested for allegedly spitting at Freetown officer’s face

A New Bedford man was arrested Saturday morning after allegedly spitting on an officer.

According to Chief Carlton Abbott, at approx. 10:30 a.m., a Freetown police officer stopped a car on South Main Street after determining that the driver was operating with a suspended license. Fearing that the driver was about to flee, the officer ordered him to step out of the car.

According to the officer, the driver became uncooperative and subsequently resisted attempts to place him under arrest.

Abbott stated that after being placed in handcuffs the driver continued to resist and spat at the officer’s face.

Leo A. Dutra, 40, of 1052 ½ Leroy Street, New Bedford, was charged with operating after license suspended, assault and battery upon a police officer, and resisting arrest.

Dutra was released on personal recognizance and will be arraigned in the Fall River District Court at a future date.

Due to information brought to the department’s attention, the officer has been placed on quarantine.