WALTHAM, Mass. (WHDH) -- Waltham Police Chief Thomas LaCroix faced a judge twice in a week.

The second time was Tuesday afternoon. But he was arrested last Thursday following a fight with his wife in which he was accused of assaulting her with a bicycle rack and counter top. She suffered injuries. The allegations surprised his family and his friends who've k own him since grade a school.

“He’s just the same guy he always was. Very nice, decent guy. I was just, you know, really shocked about the allegations,” said his friend, Frank Craig.

His ex-wife Barbara LaCroix can't believe the charges either.

The dangerousness hearing that was supposed to take place Tuesday has been put off until Thursday. In the meantime the defense and the prosecution must agree on a program for LaCroix should he be released.

His family and friends were in court Tuesday. His lawyer said their appearance was very spontaneous.

LaCroix’s waist was wrapped in shackles, and his head was wrapped in a t-shirt, as he left the jail van and headed into court where he hid from a courtroom filled with supporters.

Investigators said he fought with his wife in his Maynard home, that she left, came back with a friend and the two fought again. LaCroix's lawyer said LaCroix should be released.

“He'll be okay. Try to get him released and get him back in the community,” said defense attorney, Peter Bella.

The court took great pains to protect the chief. A court officer partially hid him as he walked across the dock. The judge impounded the paperwork, so details about the chief's wife's injuries are unknown. Details surrounding the fight itself are also unknown.

The chief's friends said they've never known him to be violent, and just want him to know that they care.

“I think it's very unfortunate, and I’m hoping the best for him. But, just wanted to be there to let him know that there's a lot of people that are thinking about him and worried about him,” said Craig.

The chief remains in custody. He is on paid leave until the case against him is resolved. Late Tuesday, the Mayor of Waltham appointed an acting chief.