Police Say Man Punched Officer

A man who police say was being cited for public drunkenness is now facing an aggravated assault charge after allegedly punching a State College police officer.

At about 1:45 a.m. on Sunday, police responded to a report of two men fighting at Sharkies Bar, 110 Sowers St., and were directed to East Calder Way where one of the suspects was located, according to a criminal complaint.

Police say David Engle, 22, of State College, had dried blood on his mouth and chin but he denied having been involved in a fight. He allegedly tried to walk away once and had a strong odor of alcohol, slurred speech and had difficulty maintaining his balance.

A second officer arrived and EMS was called to evaluate Engle. Police reportedly told Engle he would be transported to Mount Nittany Medical Center for evaluation and that he would receive a citation in the mail for public drunkenness. 

Engle allegedly then attempted to run away, and an officer grabbed him by the arm to restrain him. Engle then allegedly swung at the officer, hitting him in the face.  According to the complaint, the two officers then tackled Engle, who continued to resist by tensing his arms and not putting them behind his back as officers tried to handcuff him.

Engle was charged with felony aggravated assault, misdemeanor resisting arrest and summary counts of disorderly conduct and public drunkenness.

He was arraigned before District Judge Carmine Prestia, with unsecured bail set at $75,000. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Wednesday.