A deputy in La Porte County, Indiana was injured and his patrol car was damaged by a teenage girl Thursday.
Deputy James Lear was investigating a complaint regarding a runaway near CR 400 North and U.S. 421 when he encountered a 15-year-old from North Chicago, Illinois, according to a news release.
The deputy found the girl to be in possession of alcohol and was initially taken into custody.
The juvenile gave false information on her identity and as Lear began to transport her to the La Porte County Juvenile Services Center. She was able to slip out of one handcuff and began to fight with the deputy.
During the struggle to maintain control over the juvenile, who was attempting to flee, Lear was bitten several times in the left arm.
Officials said the girl also began to violently kick inside the car, breaking the windshield, knocking the computer off the stand and damaging the in-car camera system.
Lear was able to call for assistance and eventually was able to regain control of the girl. Due to her extremely violent behavior, the juvenile was transported to the emergency room at St. Anthony's Hospital for evaluation.
Once she was cleared by the medical staff, the juvenile was transported to the Juvenile Services Center without further incident and faces charges of Minor in Possession of Alcohol, Battery to a Police Officer, and Criminal Mischief.
Lear was treated in the emergency room for bites and scratches he received and has since returned to work.
Damage to the squad at was estimated at $500 with most of the repairs being completed by Sheriff's Office Mechanics.
