Police Arrest Man With Gun at Festival Field Apartments

Two people were arrested Tuesday around 1 a.m. after Newport police responded to Festival Field Apartments for a report of a man with a .22 caliber pistol.

Nels Berghman, 21, of 140 Van Zandt Ave. Apt 12, was charged with a license required for carrying a pistol, a felony. Christianna Walmsley 19, of 90 Girard Ave. Apt #144, was charged with obstructing an officer in the execution of duty.  

Police met at the Mainstay parking lot and developed a plan of action, according to the police report. Police said they quickly surrounded people standing near the front of the building, and ordered them to remain inside.

Police identified Berghman and found a gun on his waistband. 

Walmsley allegedly ignored directions and continued to walk towards the exit. She allegedly swore at the officers and said she was “pissed off.” 

She reportedly said, “I can do what I want. I pay the bills to live here.” Police said the other five people in the area were cooperative. 

Newport Police arrested Berghmam in March on charges of drug possession, vandalism and weapons other than firearms. On Tuesday, he was presented as violating the bail conditions of that previous arrest and is currently being held at the ACI without bail, according to state records.