A Tamaqua man is facing multiple charges after an incident that occurred on May 19. Marshall Matthew Barker, 24, has been charged by Tamaqua police with assault, recklessly endangering another person, terroristic threats, tampering with physical evidence, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, public drunkenness and similar misconduct.

Police were dispatched to Lincoln Street for a reported disturbance of two men fighting. A witness stated the fight was between Barker and another man. Both men were separated, out of breath and bleeding. Troopers noticed a large knife with a silver blade lying next to Barker. Both men refused EMS treatment.

Police attempted to collect information from Barker but they noted he was screaming and highly under the influence of narcotics. Records displayed that Barker had an active warrant for his arrest and he was taken into custody.

The victim stated that the argument was in the backyard as Barker does not live there and is constantly causing issues. He also noted that Barker was doing drugs outside. He asked Barker to leave but Barker grabbed a large knife from the picnic table and told the victim that he was going to kill him. He said he felt threatened for his life and that he defended himself against Barker.

While police took Barker to the station, Barker said the police had no right to conduct a vehicle stop.

At the station, Barker told another officer that “he ate it.” Police noticed that inside the toilet was a clear blue baggie is typically used for storing narcotics. Police asked Barker to open his mouth, which was all white and still had a small amount of particles on his tongue. Barker said it was methamphetamine.