Norwalk City Councilman Travis Simms appeared in court Friday for his arraignment on assault charges in connection with a fistfight two weeks ago.

Simms, who is also a former world champion boxer, is accused of assaulting another man at a birthday party.

Simms' lawyer says his client was breaking up a fight involving other people.

Police accuse Simms of threatening officers during the arrest.

His lawyer says he has yet to talk to witnesses and see a full, unedited video of the arrest, but floated the idea of filing a civil rights case against the Norwalk Police Department if he suspected wrongdoing on its part.

Three years ago, Simms was charged with another assault, although he was cleared in that case.

Simms' next court appearance is set for next month.