Patron Struck Bouncer

With Chain, Police Say

ONEONTA – An Oneonta man was arrested at the Sip and Sail Tavern after he allegedly struck a bouncer with a chain wrapped around his hand.

James J. Williams, 34, was arrested after police responded to a call from the bar and reportedly found Williams holding a chain in a threatening manner.   The investigation revealed that Williams had been involved in a fight inside the bar, and when the bouncer intervened, Williams struck him with a chain that was loosely wrapped around his hand.

In addition, Williams provided a false name and identification to members of the police department before his true identity could be confirmed, officers reported.

He was charged with three felonies; criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree, a class D felony, attempted assault in the second degree, a class E felony and criminal possession of a forged instrument in the second degree, a class D felony.

He was also charged with the class A misdemeanors of menacing in the second degree, Reckless endangerment in the second degree, and obstructing governmental administration in the second degree, as well as the class B misdemeanor of false personation and Criminal trespass in the third degree.  If convicted of all charges, he faces 21 years incarceration.