NYPD: Man Assaulted Police Officer, Eluded Arrest In Manhattan
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Police are searching for a man who they said assaulted a police officer while being placed under arrest and then fled the scene.
Authorities said officers were called to DSW Shoes at 40 East 14 St. in Manhattan around 4 p.m. on Friday for a reported shoplifting incident.
After store officials told the responding officers the suspect tried to steal several items from the store, police said the officers tried to place the suspect under arrest.
Police said that's when the suspect began to fight with the officers, punching one of them in the face. A struggle ensued and the suspect was able to get to his feet and flee the store, police said.
Both officers were taken to Lenox Hill Hospital. One of the officers suffered bruising to the face and the other had complaints of pain to the body from falling into a clothing rack, police said.
Authorities described the suspect as a black male with short braids. He was last seen wearing a yellow plaid shirt, brown hat and glasses.
Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS (8477). You can also submit a tip by logging onto Crime Stoppers website or text a tip to CRIMES (274637), then enter TIP577.