In an incident during the Boston Pride parade, three individuals have been arrested and identified by the Boston Police for their alleged involvement in causing disruptions and obstructing the parade route. The arrests took place at the intersection of Berkeley and St. James streets, an area where additional police presence was assigned due to the presence of pro-Palestinian protesters on the sidewalk.

Jake Zawalich, one of the suspects, was apprehended by Boston Police officers and now faces charges of two counts of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon for allegedly throwing a full water bottle at a police officer. Zawalich also faces a charge of disorderly conduct. The other two individuals, Owen Woodcock and Jorma McSwiggan-Hong, were arrested and charged with disorderly conduct.

According to the police report, the incident occurred around 11:30 a.m. on Saturday when a group of protesters walked past officers on Berkeley Street, disrupting the flow of the parade. The report states that many of the protesters interlocked their arms in an attempt to prevent officers from removing them without physical contact.

This maneuver made it difficult for law enforcement to disperse the protesters non-violently, resulting in officers having to physically remove individuals who were interlocked. The blockage caused a temporary halt in the parade, affecting its free flow.

The Boston Pride parade, a significant event celebrating and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, draws a large crowd each year. While the incident caused a disruption, it is important to note that the majority of attendees at the parade had gathered to support the LGBTQ+ community and its causes peacefully.

The Boston Police Department has not released any information regarding the potential motivations behind the protest blockade or the affiliation of the individuals arrested with any specific organization or cause.

The three suspects were taken into custody and are scheduled to make their initial court appearances, where they will face the charges brought against them. The incident highlights the complex dynamics and challenges faced by law enforcement during public gatherings and protests.

The Boston Police Department continues to investigate the incident, and additional details may emerge as the investigation progresses.