By Jim Clark

Somerville police officers responded to reports of an assault at a Sewall Street apartment building last Saturday evening, only to find the alleged victim outside the residence, behaving in a very animated manner and, in the officers’ opinions, highly intoxicated.

Mark Bowler, 57, complained that another resident of the building had struck him in the face for no apparent reason. Bowler was then advised that it was a matter of simple assault and that he himself would have to file charges at the District Court the next day, police said. Bowler then reportedly began swearing at the police officers, according to their report.

Upon questioning, the man alleged to have hit Bowler said that he did so after being advanced upon by him, according to police. He was then reportedly advised to remain in his residence and to call the police if Bowler should return.

Bowler was once more advised to file his charges against his alleged attacker at a later time, but reportedly became angry and stated that he would handle the situation himself. The officers on the scene once again advised the man against making threats and to stay away from the other man, police said.

The officers left the scene, but a short time later they were called back there on reports of an additional assault incident.

The man who allegedly struck Bowler reported to the officers that he was again confronted by him in his own room and that he had to insist on his leaving, according to police.

The officers then reportedly questioned Bowler again and inquired why he did not wait to file appropriate charges in court instead of confronting the other man again. Police say that Bowler then began swearing at the officers again and made physical contact as well.

The officers then attempted to handcuff Bowler but he resisted and caused both himself and one of the officers to fall to the floor, police said.

He was eventually restrained and placed under arrest for threatening to commit a crime, disorderly conduct, and resisting arrest.