Deputies in North Carolina say a man tried to light a crack pipe in front of a deputy and tried to get the deputy’s gun during a struggle.
A Columbus County deputy was on routine patrol in the Green Acres community of Tabor City when he reportedly observed a vehicle parked near a wood line, according to a press release from the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office. While checking on the vehicle, the occupant, identified in the release as Alton Maurice Graham, reportedly told the deputy he was changing a tire.
The deputy then reportedly checked Graham’s information, returned to the vehicle, and gave Graham’s license back to him, the release said. Graham allegedly then pulled out a crack pipe and tried to light it.
“The deputy advised Graham to exit the vehicle and Graham did not comply,” stated the release. “The deputy assisted Graham from the vehicle and attempted to handcuff him. At that time, Graham pulled away from the deputy and a struggle ensued.”
Graham allegedly “struck the deputy numerous times in the face and head area” during the struggle and tried to get the deputy’s gun, “while verbally threatening to kill him.”
The deputy was able to handcuff Graham, the release also said. The deputy was treated for injuries and released from Columbus Regional Hospital.
Graham’s charges include: possession of schedule II controlled substance, assault inflicting serious injury, damage to government property, assault with a deadly weapon on government official, and resisting public officer.
Graham was given a $51,000 secured bond.
