Peabody Teens Among Those At West Newbury Drinking Party: Police

PEABODY, MA — Peabody teens were among 26 people West Newbury police identified who were at a party where one boy said he was attacked and there was property damaged when a large fight occurred.

West Newbury Police Chief Jeffrey Durand said the party on Ash Street Saturday night involved underage drinking. When police responded to a report of a large fight they found several vehicles parked around the residence, with some attempting to leave as cruisers arrived.

Police said one boy claimed he was attacked at the party. He was treated at an area hospital.

Police said they found broken windows and furniture, smashed picture frames, objects thrown into the pool and other damage outside the house.

A 17-year-old girl who lives in the house was at the party, but the adult owners were not.

Attendees identified from Lawrence, Lynnfield, Middleton, Newburyport, Peabody, West Newbury and Dover and Plaistow, New Hampshire, were summoned to appear in court for malicious destruction of property, with those under 21 charged with possession of liquor by a person under 21.

Police said no fines were yet issued for violating the state's coronavirus social gathering order that provides for a $500 fine for those attending a private event where there are more than 25 people indoors, or 50 people outdoors.

However, police said it is probable that additional charges will be added, and the West
Newbury Board of Health has been notified.