Keizer man arrested for firing cannon to celebrate Trump
While some critics of President-elect Donald Trump have caused disruption in Portland by marching in the streets, one of Trump's Oregon supporters caused his own disturbance — but with gunpowder.
Keizer resident Michael Dingle, 45, was arrested and cited for disorderly conduct Wednesday evening after firing a cannon in his backyard in celebration of Trump's victory. The cannon apparently caused a "loud explosion" and left "a large plume of smoke" hanging in the air, according to Keizer police.
Two others were arrested as police investigated the incident.
Authorities originally got a call that an explosion had occurred at the intersection of 7th Avenue NE and Kestrel Street NE. Officers arrived and tried to figure out if anyone had been injured.
They eventually began interviewing 20-year-old Velda Housley, who was standing in the driveway of the house where smoke was lingering. Her boyfriend, 21-year-old Triston Poteet, confronted the officers and grabbed one, according to police. He was arrested and charged with harassment and interfering with a police officer.
"He was in need of a trip to the jail because of his actions and also to sober up," Keizer Police Deputy Chief Jeff Kuhns said of Poteet.
Housley was also arrested and with interfering with a police officer. She was later released at the scene.
Police said that Dingle, the cannon operator, cooperated with their investigation. Authorities said he told them that no projectiles were fired from the cannon, which was made by Dingle's father. He was cited and released.
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