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Boston Police Officer Released On Bail In Alleged Uber Attack

BOSTON (CBS) -- A Boston Police Officer was released on bail Monday after allegedly assaulting an Uber driver early Sunday morning.

But ironically, it was the officer who looked the worse for wear in court. Mike Doherty, 40, had several stitches over his left eye which was blackened and he had his left arm in a sling.

"Your honor, I suggest my client was the victim, not the perpetrator," said Doherty's defense attorney, Ken Anderson.

It was early Sunday morning when Doherty got a ride from an Uber car and he allegedly told the driver to take him to South Boston. Police say when the driver went to the wrong address, Doherty yelled a racial slur at him, and then began punching the driver who got out of the car.

michael-doherty
Michael Doherty (WBZ)

A passing motorist stopped and Doherty took off in the Uber driver's car. But the driver hopped in with the Good Samaritan, and they followed Doherty to Farragut Rd. where all parties got out of the cars, and began fighting.

Doherty fled, but was tracked down using the credit card he purchased the ride with.

Doherty, who has been a Boston police officer for 16 years, is charged with assault and battery and operating a motor vehicle without authorization. He was released after posting $500 bail Monday afternoon.

Luis Blanco
Luis Blanco (WBZ-TV)

At his home in Revere Monday night, Uber driver Luis Blanco didn't say much about his run-in with the police officer.

"I apologize, guys," Blanco said. "You guys will have information soon. I apologize."

Doherty was already on desk duty because of a prior assault on June 8, Boston police confirmed. He's now on administrative leave because of the Uber incident while police investigate what happened.

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