Man tries to put chemical-soaked handkerchief over teen’s mouth, MA officials say

A man was arrested after being accused of trying to place a chemical-soaked handkerchief over the mouth of a 14-year-old, Massachusetts officials said.

On July 28, a man, later identified as 69-year-old Willie Cowart of Dorchester, approached a 14-year-old boy who was waiting to be picked up by his brother at around 12:20 p.m., according to an Aug. 4 news release from the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office.

Cowart is accused of trying to place a red liquid-soaked handkerchief over the boy’s mouth.

The boy was able to flee the bus stop, officials said, and contacted the police.

Later, officials said Cowart denied having any interaction with the victim and officers searched his car.

After finding chemical cleaning agents in his car, Cowart was arrested, officials said.

He was charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and is scheduled to appear in court on Oct. 29.

Suffolk County, in the eastern part of the state, includes Boston