COLUMBUS — A Bartholomew County sheriff’s deputy was injured Tuesday, March 12, in an altercation with a domestic battery suspect during a traffic stop.
According to a news release, deputies were dispatched to the 12000 block of County Road 425 East for an alleged domestic battery investigation just before 6:30 p.m.
Responding officers from Hope Police Department told deputies that the suspect, 29-year-old Bradley Bates, had beaten up a male acquaintance at the home. The male received injuries to his face.
Police say Bates had fled the area in a silver Honda passenger car. The Honda was later located, and deputies initiated a traffic stop near the intersection of Poshard Drive.
Bates refused to get out of the vehicle and was assisted by Deputy Tyler Cooper. Police say that Bates exited the car, became combative with officers, and hit Deputy Cooper multiple times in the head.
Cooper was able to separate himself from Bradley, and he was able to deploy his Taser.
Due to the physical altercation, Cooper could not use his radio to call for assistance.
Deputy Cooper was transported to Columbus Regional Hospital for treatment. He suffered a minor concussion as a result of the altercation.
Bates was taken to the Bartholomew County Jail on preliminary charges of battery on a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest, and domestic battery.
“First off, I am glad that Deputy Cooper only suffered minor injuries,” said Sheriff Chris Lane in a release. This situation could have been much worse, and I am proud that my deputy relied on his training and experience to handle it.”
