BLUEFIELD, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A woman in police custody allegedly fled from an ambulance, attempted to grab an officer’s firearm and bit him during a struggle in Bluefield.
According to the Bluefield Police Department, Tonya Stafford was being held at the Bluefield City Jail on city charges when she complained of chest pain and requested medical attention Friday, September 11.
Stafford was placed inside an ambulance for transport to WVU Medicine Bluefield Regional Medical Center while a police officer followed in a patrol vehicle.
At the intersection of Highland Avenue and Cherry Street, the ambulance came to a stop. Police allege Stafford opened its rear doors, climbed out and ran after being ordered to get back inside.
The officer chased Stafford and took her to the ground while attempting to place her in handcuffs. During the struggle, Stafford allegedly grabbed the officer’s firearm holster and then attempted to remove ammunition magazines from his duty belt.
The officer reported pulling Stafford’s hand away from the weapon and securing one of her wrists in handcuffs. Stafford then allegedly bit the officer’s right index finger as he attempted to gain control of her.
A paramedic helped the officer secure Stafford’s other wrist before another Bluefield officer arrived to assist.
Stafford was returned to the ambulance and transported to the hospital without further incident.
She has been charged with attempt to disarm, felony escape, and assault on a police officer.
