Robbery suspect dives into Public Garden pond
By Globe Staff
A robbery suspect being pursued by police late last night ducked into Boston’s Public Garden and tried to elude officers by diving headfirst into the pond used by the swan boats.
The suspect perched on a small rocky island in the Lagoon, while police surrounded him. He eventually left the pond -- where pedal-powered boats have charmed tourists for more than 120 years -- and surrendered, said Officer James Kenneally, a police spokesman.
Timothy Flaherty, 51, of Lawrence allegedly robbed a woman at about 11:33 p.m. Wednesday on Beacon Hill, then was pursued by police onto Boston Common and into the adjacent Public Garden.
He faces charges that include unarmed robbery, assault and battery on a police officer, and resisting arrest, Kenneally said.
