Ohio Man Charged With Using Stun Gun Near Salem Bewitched Statue: Police

SALEM, MA — An Ohio man is facing gun and assault with a deadly weapon charges after Salem police said he was accused of brandishing and firing a stun gun during an argument near the Bewitched statue downtown on Tuesday night.

Police said they found two groups in an argument involving one group "preaching" and another group expressing their disagreement in Townhouse Square at about 8:30 on Tuesday.

Police said one member of the group that challenged the one preaching said a man in the other group took out a stun gun at one point and "activated it twice."

"The individual described the action as being 'zapped' and stated that he feared for his safety," police said.

Police said officers were able to corroborate the claim with a witness and soon found the man, who was carrying two stun guns.

In Massachusetts, possession of a stun gun is classified as a firearm.

Police said Paul Shelby, 46, of Mogadore, Ohio, will be charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and two counts of carrying a firearm without a license.

Salem police reminded the public that possession of a weapon of any kind is strictly prohibited during the city's Halloween celebration, and that possession or display of a costume weapon is discouraged.