NEWPORT, R.I. (WPRI) — An investigation is underway after a traffic aide was reportedly assaulted while on duty in downtown Newport earlier this week.

Police said an individual became angry about a parking issue and confronted the city employee, but the situation soon escalated into a physical assault.

Officers responded and took the suspect into custody. They were later charged with simple assault and disorderly conduct.

According to police, the employee was not seriously injured and did not need medical attention, but is receiving "appropriate support."

"I want to be clear," Police Chief Ryan Duffy said. "Physically assaulting any city employee — regardless of the circumstances — is absolutely unacceptable and will not be tolerated."

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