Westport Police Arrest 'Panhandler' Who Claimed Racism While Blocking Saugatuck Avenue

WESTPORT, CT — A 63-year-old Norwalk man, who Westport police describe as a known panhandler, was arrested on disorderly conduct and reckless use of a highway charges on Nov. 18 after he stood in the middle of Saugatuck Avenue blocking traffic.

Leroy Williams was seen panhandling at the exit 17 off-ramp of I-95 at about 3:30 p.m., and police asked him to leave the area.

"Williams appeared to be complying with the request as he began to gather his belongings and walk from the exit ramp into the intersection of Saugatuck Avenue," police wrote in a statement. "Williams then stopped in the middle of the intersection and began screaming that the officers were racist. Williams was asked to get out of the roadway and he refused. The intersection was congested with traffic, and while Williams stood in the roadway, southbound traffic was unable to pass and northbound traffic had to swerve to avoid hitting him."

Officers repeatedly told Williams to get out of the roadway, but he refused. "Williams was finally advised that if he did not move, he would be arrested. Williams did not move out of the roadway, and continued to yell at the officers saying they were racist."

He was then taken into custody and charged. He was released after posting a $500 bond and is scheduled to appear in Norwalk Superior Court on Nov. 25.

Photo: Leroy Williams. Photo credit: Westport Police Department