Judge determines flare gun shooter isn't dangerous

Judge Cindy Brackett ruled against a motion filed by prosecutor Zachary Mercer to have Chardonette deemed dangerous.

FALL RIVER – Rajheem Chardonette moved one step closer to freedom Friday. A District Court judge declined to find him too dangerous for bail following a 2-day hearing.

Judge Cindy Brackett ruled against a motion filed by prosecutor Zachary Mercer to have Chardonette deemed dangerous.

Chardonette remains in custody. He will face a hearing Monday in Plymouth County Superior Court to determine if his arrest violates his probation on an earlier charge in that court.

If Plymouth County declines to pursue the probation violation trial, Chardonette will be released on personal recognizance on the Fall River charge.

Chardonette, 24, of 866 Broadway, was arrested at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday by officers responding to 42 Tecumseh St. Joshua Oliver, 23, of that address, was bleeding from cuts and burns to his forehead and face.

Witnesses told police Oliver had been shot in the forehead with a flare gun by Chardonette, officers report.

Defense lawyer Marc Roberts called five witnesses during the dangerousness hearing. They all testified that someone other than Chardonette fired the flare gun.

Chardonette remains charged with assault to maim and with assault with a dangerous weapon resulting in serious injury.

Email Kevin P. O’Connor at koconnor@heraldnews.com.