Fight Over Panhandler Spot On Median Results In Summons

NEWPORT, RI — An unidentified woman took over a panhandler's spot in the median on Admiral Kalfbus Boulevard on Sunday morning. Police responded after one of the panhandlers called and complained the woman refused to move. The woman was holding a sign and told police she was demonstrating against panhandling. She told officers she did not think enough was being done to stop the practice. She was not charged in connection with the incident.

However, one of the panhandlers who complained was charged with disorderly conduct. It happened after another panhandler who normally has that spot came by around 8 a.m. Sunday and saw the situation. He spoke to the woman with the sign. The protester indicated she was not going to give up the spot, and he allegedly said he would get his girl friend.

Sometime later, Megan Elizabeth Pember, 27, a homeless Newport woman, went to the median near the Route 138 Eastbound ramp and told the woman to move. When the protester held her ground, Pember allegedly threatened her and said, "I'll break my phone upside your head, bitch."

The protester taped the threat on her phone, police allege. Officers charged Pember with Disorderly conduct and gave her a summons to appear in court later.