Combative Felony Suspect Tangles with Police

Los Angeles: A felony warrant suspect was arrested after he struggled with police in the Westlake area.

On June 30th 2006, around 9:00 p.m., Rampart patrol officers Joel Miller, 48, and Thomas Andreas, 27, were in the area of Commonwealth Avenue and Temple Street in search of Craig Cooper, 52, who was wanted on a felony narcotics warrant for possession of cocaine.

The officers first observed Cooper walking down the street. As they were exiting their vehicle, Cooper saw them and started running. The officers followed and eventually caught up to him. While attempting to arrest him, he became combative and began fighting with the officers. As the fight progressed, Cooper was taken to the ground and continued to resist. After a short time, the officers were able to take him into custody.

During the search of Cooper cocaine, marijuana and other drug paraphernalia were found in his possession

During the struggle Cooper sustained a small laceration to his eyebrow. Paramedics were called and he was taken to the Los Angeles County Medical Center (LACMC) where he was treated. He also complained of neck and back pain and was ultimately admitted to LACMC.

Craig Cooper was booked for possession of narcotics and on the felony warrant.

Forced Investigation Division is investigating the incident. Officer Miller has been with the LAPD for 7 years and Officer Andreas has been and officer for 5 years.

This incident was initially reported as a non-categorical use of force which, resulted in its delayed reporting.