TULARE COUNTY, CA (KMJ) – A Visalia man is convicted for trying to kill a police officer
On Monday in Tulare County Superior Court, a jury found Paul Brian Ward, guilty of attempted murder and assault on a police officer, battery against an EMT, resisting arrest, and other charges.
The incident took place back in July of 2017, when the 43-year-old began fighting with officers responding to reports of a disturbance at a home.
According to witnesses, Ward was in the home when he became irate and began to hit people.
Officers arrived to find Ward outside the home completely naked and being restrained by a number of witnesses.
WHen medical personnel attempted to treat Ward, the DA’s Office said he kicked an EMT in the groin and began to attack the officers, punching and kicking them.
During the struggle, Ward punched the officer in the face.
Ward was then able to sweep around the officer with his arm and began to choke him.
According to witnesses, Ward used his free hand to go for the officer’s firearm.
The officer broke free when another officer struck Ward with a baton.
Officers were then able to wrestle Ward to the ground and take him into custody.
Sentencing is scheduled for December. Ward faces life in prison.
