By Jim Clark

A Myrtle St. residence became the center of activity for several police officers late last Saturday night, as reports of a loud party in progress brought them to the scene.

Upon arrival, several individuals were gathered in the backyard of the residence occupied by Dale Harding, 26, who was reportedly known to police for having past incidents of loud partying at his home. At this time loud music was coming from the basement of the residence, according to police.

Harding was advised that the party should be taken inside and his guests reluctantly agreed to follow Harding into the house.

Police then cleared the scene but were called back a short time later as the noise had resumed and there were reports of fighting going on outside the home.

Police officers broke up the fighting and then advised Harding that the party was over for the night and that he should send all of his guests home.

Harding reportedly ignored this and ushered his guests back inside his residence, whereupon new fighting broke out among the guests.

Many more police officers – some 25 to 30 according to reports – had to be called in to break up the party, and two were injured while scuffling with the revelers, some of whom reportedly assaulted the officers and resisted arrest.

As the situation came under control, Harding was placed under arrest and charged with having a noisy and disorderly house.

Jamie Martis, 20, was charged with assault and battery on a police officer and resisting arrest, after a reportedly violent episode with police came to an end.

Joshua Foote, 22, was placed under arrest on a charge of disorderly conduct.