New Bedford Courthouse Fight Tally Grows

The number of disturbance and assault-related arrests inside or near the New Bedford District Court continues to grow.

The latest involves a group of teens who allegedly attacked two other teens after they left the courthouse on foot on Nov. 19. The victims, aged 19 and 18, were chased down Kempton Street and punched and kicked in the parking lot of Danny's Auto Body, according to court documents viewed by SouthCoast Today. One of the assailants also allegedly drew a knife.

Two New Bedford teens were arrested. Police nabbed Kenny Gedeon, 18, and Kenny 19. At a subsequent pretrial hearing, a judge ordered the two suspects held without bail for up to four months while awaiting trial. A third New Bedford suspect, Tyler J. Thomas, 19, remained at large, according to the New Bedford newspaper. The fight was described by police, who were able to view surveillance video of the incident, as "suspicious gang activity."

The courthouse this year has seen more than two dozen reported disturbances or assaults within the courthouse or on its grounds. Trial Court officials are currently working with New Bedford police to improve security protocols at the facility.