Dec. 14--STAMFORD -- Bridgeport man, wanted on a warrant for violating his probation, lashed out at police officers with a knife when they tried to pick him up downtown Tuesday afternoon, police said.
Rafael Enrigue Casas, 42, of 374 Hanover St., Bridgeport, was charged with attempted first-degree assault, attempted assault on a peace officer, carrying a dangerous weapon and violation of probation.
He was held overnight at police headquarters and will be arraigned at the Stamford courthouse Wednesday. He was held in lieu of $100,500 bond.
Police first found Casas inside a Dunkin' Donuts at 450 Main St., just before 2:22 p.m., Lt. Timothy Shaw said.
The officer had been made aware that Casas, who had an outstanding warrant would be in the donut shop, which is currently closed and under construction, Shaw said.
When officer tried to take him into custody, Casas began fighting the officer off. As Casas pulled the officer to the ground, he allegedly pulled a knife and tried to slash the officer with it, Shaw said.
As patrol officers responded as backup, Casas threw the knife under a refrigerator in an attempt to hide the weapon, Shaw said.
Casas has numerous prior convictions for larceny, resisting arrest, drug sales, threatening and assault, according to police.
Although one officer was bruised in the fight, he declined medical attention, Shaw said.
Copyright 2011 - Connecticut Post, Bridgeport
