Three officers injured while arresting Mass/Cass robbery suspect - two from the pepper spray they used to try to control him - police say

Boston Police report a man who robbed and spit on a woman at the intersection of Massachusetts Avenue and Melnea Cass Boulevard Sunday afternoon did not go easily when officers spotted him nearby on Southampton Street.

The suspect initially refused to comply with the officer’s verbal commands to stop and show his hands but then quickly turned around, pointing his hands at the officers and making a gesture as if to imply he was shooting at the officers. As the officers approached the suspect, he began to throw numerous items towards them, including a water bottle. When the officers attempted to gain control of the suspect, a violent struggle ensued, leading one of the officers to deploy his department issued OC spray as the officers continued to attempt to place the suspect in custody. The violently resistant suspect was eventually placed in custody with the assistance of additional responding units. Officers were then able to safely recover a number of items which belonged to the female victim.

Police say one officer suffered an arm injury during the scuffle, while the other two needed treatment for the effects of the pepper spray they used in the incident, shortly before 3 p.m.

Marshall Burton, 38, was charged with unarmed robbery, unarmed assault with intent to rob, receiving stolen property, three counts of assault and battery on a police officer, resisting arrest, disorderly conduct and disturbing the peace, police say, adding he was already wanted on warrants out of Boston Municipal Court on several breaking-and-entering-charges.

Innocent, etc.