Tensions are so high over a casino proposal in Foxboro that one man in town who wants the casino threatened the life of a selectman who voted against it. Michael Viscardi, 40, of Foxboro, was arraigned today and he was still riled up in front of a judge.
Viscardi was blurting things out to the judge as he faced charges, but the selectman he is accused of threatening is just one of three who is against the proposed casino. There are 5 selectmen total and the last vote was 3-2.
Police say Viscardi started harassing town selectman Mark Sullivan after he voted against the resort style casino that could land in Foxboro. Viscardi told Sullivan to, "change your position or you're a dead man.
Sullivan claims it is the third time he's been targeted. Viscardi is also accused of driving around the neighborhood wielding a hatchet and looking in Sullivan's direction. Tuesday, before Viscardi's arraignment on the threat, Sullivan asked the judge for a restraining order.
"I object," Viscardi screamed. "I am a town resident and I want to be able to go to town meetings."
Sullivan got the restraining order and quickly left the courtroom, but did agree to let Viscardi attend the town meetings. The two men are neighbors, making the order difficult for Viscardi to digest.
"I walk my dog on the street and fish on the lake that is relatively close to his house," Viscardi interrupted.
"Walk your dog somewhere else," the judge responded.
Viscardi has a lengthy criminal record including an assault and battery charge in another state. He is currently receiving counseling for anger management.
Sullivan, his wife and their four children will be staying at a location other than their home for the next few days.
