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Last updated on Friday, November 23, 2012
(SALEM) - A Salem woman who allegedly tried to stop a school bus, cursed out a school superintendent and attacked a police officer was arrested last Thursday.
Stephanie Taylor Ferriell, of the Leader-Democrat reports, 37 year old Melissa Speckman, faces a felony charge of battery on a police officer and two misdemeanors; one for resisting law enforcement and the other for disorderly conduct.
The incident began Wednesday when Salem Community Schools Superintendent Dr. Lynn Reed called police to tell them about a situation involving Speckman earlier that day. Reed said Speckman became upset with the bus driver who dropped her child off. She allegedly followed the bus, then stood in front of it, cursing and making a rude hand gesture toward the driver. The driver reported several students on the bus were scared. Speckman said she was coming to the superintendent's office so Reed asked Detective Scott Ratts to be present.
In his report, Ratts said he heard Speckman admit the allegations involving the bus. Reed told her the school could no longer offer service to her house due to safety concerns.
Speckman then began to scream and curse. Ratts told her to calm down, that it was time for her to leave. She refused. Ratts continued to try to persuade her to leave the building. As he reached out for her arm to guide her, Speckman began pushing and hitting him in the stomach and chest, the report says.
Ratts then attempted to handcuff her, but Speckman dug her fingernails into his hand and scratched it. Ratts called for backup, for fear he could injure Speckman if he forcibly arrested her.
Once another officer arrived, Speckman was arrested and transported to the Washington County Detention Center.
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