Landlord charged in assault

Jersey Journal -- March 28

A Jersey City landlord was arrested yesterday after assaulting a city fire inspector who was investigating complaints of an illegal boarding house, officials said.

Just after 10 a.m., Anthony Harris, of 14 Bergen Ave., was charged with aggravated assault and obstruction of a governmental function in connection with his alleged attack on Fire Prevention Specialist Matt Barrett, officials said.

Barrett said he and another inspector responded to Harris' buildings at 12 and 14 Bergen Ave. and were told by Harris they could not enter. The inspectors called police and were waiting for them to arrive when the tenant who called in the complaint opened the door and let them in, Barrett told police later.

Harris ran up behind the woman and pushed her aside before elbowing Barrett in the chest, Barrett said, adding that Harris then slammed the door on Barrett's arm three times.

The two buildings belonging to Harris should have a total of six units, but inspectors found 26. Harris faces numerous housing, fire and zoning violations, Barrett said.

Barrett refused medical attention, but his arm hurt later in the day and he said he would see a doctor.

-- MICHAELANGELO CONTE