MANCHESTER, NH – A bar patron who was flagged from being served by a bartender at McGarvey’s Pub was arrested after he allegedly pulled out a handgun and loaded it in front of the bartender.
Joseph Riley, 22, of Manchester, was charged with felony criminal threatening.
At about 1 a.m. on May 6, Officer Max Rahill was patrolling Elm Street when he was flagged down by Richard Baker, 29 of Manchester. Baker told police officers he was threatened by Riley, who allegedly made the threat while holding a handgun.
According to the police affidavit, Riley and a friend were attempting to enter McGarvey’s Pub. However the bartender, Justin Murphy, 37 of Manchester, engaged in a brief argument with the two men due to the fact they appeared intoxicated and were not allowed to enter the bar.
Baker told police he felt his presence may help avert an altercation, so he stood near Murphy. It was at this time Riley allegedly pulled out a handgun, pulled the slide back and loaded a round into the chamber. Baker felt threatened by this behavior and fortunately was able to flag down a patrol car.
Officer Rahill stopped to investigate and discovered Riley was in possession of a Glock .380 caliber handgun. He ultimately gathered enough probable cause to arrest Riley. The weapon was seized and Riley was transported to police headquarters. He was released on $2,000 personal recognizance and will appear in the 9th Circuit Court-Manchester on June 9.
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