Lincoln man arrested for stomping on Cape Verdean flag and disrupting East Providence ceremony

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. — East Providence police arrested a 27-year-old Manville, Lincoln man on Wednesday following a disturbing incident outside East Providence City Hall during a Cape Verde Independence Day celebration.

Officials say the suspect, identified as Joey Marsden, arrived at the event on a moped and was seen pulling down both the American and Cape Verdean flags positioned at the entrance. Witnesses reported that Marsden stomped on the Cape Verdean flag in front of bystanders. The entire incident was caught on surveillance video.

Police quickly tracked down Marsden a short distance from City Hall. During his arrest, officers say they found him carrying a 6-inch knife and a large Nazi flag.

Marsden is facing multiple charges, including:

• Vandalism

• Disorderly Conduct

• Possession of a Prohibited Weapon

Authorities are now working with the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office to determine whether hate crime charges will be added.

Mayor Bob DaSilva issued a strong statement condemning the act, saying East Providence is a city that welcomes all and has no tolerance for hate. Acting Police Chief Michael Rapoza also emphasized the department’s commitment to pursuing hate crime charges when appropriate.

Marsden is scheduled to appear in court on today.