Nashville Metro police are on high alert after two officers were attacked and seriously injured in less than a 24-hour period this week.
Officials say that they are deploying mobile videos cameras and stepping up patrols in an East Nashville public housing development on South Seventh Street after the officers were assaulted while trying to help residents, according to The Tennesseean.
"I want to be clear that Officer Josh Hausman on Monday night and Officer Matthew Cammarn (Wednesday) night had come to that neighborhood to protect citizens from harm and were themselves attacked," Nashville police Chief Steve Anderson told reporters.
The police chief siad that thankfully both officers are going to be OK.
Cammarn was attacked around 6 p.m. Tuesday as he attempted to arrest a man whom he saw assault a woman in the neighborhood. He was transported to Vanderbilt University Medical Center for treatment of a concussion and was later released. He will remain on medical leave for several days.
Hausman was stabbed in the right hand around 9 p.m. Monday while trying to break up a fight between two women and remeains on medical leave after receiving stitiches to his wound.
"Attacks on our police officers are outrageous and completely unacceptable," Mayor Megan Barry said during a press conference. "Our officers put their lives on the line to promote safety and well-being of our citizens. In order to quell further acts of violence, the East Precinct will have an increased presence in the area, and they are working to engage community and faith leaders to work with residents and their guests to resolve disputes."
Anderson said the department has asked local members of the faith-based community to establish a presence in the area to reduce tensions and help settle disputes.
