Suspect accused of using umbrella during assault

LOWELL >> told police he was fearful of Caron and needed to defend himself against the assault.

Police said they learned the two other residents who were outside the apartment building at the time helped put an end to the fight, but after a couple minutes, Caron is accused of going after the alleged victim, once again allegedly punching him in the face.

Caron provided his account of the story to police as well. According to the report, Caron’s story has a similar beginning as the alleged victim’s, with the dog barking at him as he exited the apartment building. Caron explained to police that he and the alleged victim have been involved in multiple arguments about the dog in the past.

Caron claimed to police that when the dog barked at him this time, “he used his umbrella to push the dog away from him.” He said this resulted in the dog’s owner yelling at him and a scuffle broke out.

The police report states that Caron told officers that he believes the 68-year-old man used the dog’s leash to hit him in the face. Police reported Caron’s face had cuts on it.

Despite Caron’s story, police said the two witnesses corroborated the alleged victim’s account of what happened. Caron was taken into custody, while the umbrella was tagged and submitted as evidence.

Caron was arraigned on the charges in Lowell District Court by Judge John Coffey on Monday. He was released on his own recognizance with a return date scheduled on Jan. 4.

As part of Caron’s release, he was ordered to avoid contact with the alleged victim.