Officer Injured in Struggle with Suspect

March 22, 2007

Los Angeles: A Los Angeles police officer was treated for a broken wrist after he struggled with a narcotics suspect yesterday morning.

On Wednesday, March 21, 2007, at approximately 7:15 AM., 77th Area detectives and police officers were checking the area of 7615 South San Pedro Avenue, for a suspect who had failed to register as a sex offender. During the search, officers made contact with Reginald Williams, 29, of Los Angeles, and began to question him. Williams became uncooperative and attempted to run from police.

Police Officer Perry Griffith, 43, ran after Williams and wrestled him to the ground. During the altercation, Officer Griffith applied a carotid restraint control to subdue Williams.

In the process, Officer Griffith suffered a broken wrist during the struggle to control Williams. Officer Griffith was treated at California Hospital. Williams was not injured.

Officers eliminated Williams as the wanted sex offender, but evidence at the scene prompted a narcotics investigation. Officers found narcotics and a handgun in a search of Williams’ residence.

Protocol requires Force Investigation Division to conduct an investigation whenever an officer uses a carotid restraint control.

Detectives will prepare charges against Williams for the assault on the officers, and narcotics and gun possession.

Officer Griffith has been with the LAPD for 17 years.

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