A Schuylkill County man was arrested in Pottsville earlier this month after he allegedly engaged in a physical altercation on a city sidewalk, resisted arrest, and kicked a police officer.
State Police say they encountered a group verbally fighting in the 500 block of N. Centre St. at shortly before 1 a.m. on March 14. After police told the group to stop and get out of the street, the individuals engaged in a physical confrontation on a nearby sidewalk.
When police intervened, they identified Shafeek Frazier, 31, of Ashland as the main aggressor. According to police, Frazier walked toward them while continuing to argue with the group. Police say they detected a strong odor of alcohol on Frazier and told him to “relax” multiple times to de-escalate the situation.
When police guided Frazier against a wall and informed him he was being detained, he allegedly tensed up, said “no,” and tried to pull away. A physical altercation ensued, during which Frazier allegedly resisted and ignored commands.
Police say they utilized a “rear body lock ground return” to overcome the resistance. When both men fell to the ground, a Trooper sustained injuries to a hand and knees, as well as damage to a uniform.
Frazier allegedly continued to ignore commands that he was under arrest and to relax while on the ground. Police from Pottsville then responded to the scene and assisted in cuffing Frazier.
While being seated in the rear of a patrol vehicle, police say Frazier continued to be verbally non-compliant and physically resistant. Frazier allegedly laid down across the back seat and kicked an officer in the left thigh.
On Friday afternoon, Frazier was arraigned on a felony count of aggravated assault on a designated individual, misdemeanor counts of simple assault and resisting arrest, and summary counts of harassment, disorderly conduct, public drunkenness, and criminal mischief.
Magisterial District Judge James Reiley set bail at $20,000 unsecured and Frazier was ordered to appear at a preliminary hearing on these charges on April 6.
Subscribe to Coal Region Canary
Get email updates from Coal Region Canary by becoming a subscriber today. Just enter your email address below to get started!Support Coal Region Canary
Like our reporting and want to support truly local news in Schuylkill County? Your small donations help. For as little as $5, your contribution will allow us to cover more news that directly affects you. Consider donating today by hitting the big yellow button below ...