By Jim Clark

Members of the police Gang/Anti-Crime unit observed a group of individuals reportedly smoking marijuana in Edward Leathers Park last week and called for backup as they approached them to investigate.

The plainclothes officers showed their badges as they approached and one of the individuals in the group fled the area.

A short time later, police heard a loud banging noise nearby and upon investigating reportedly found a man, later identified as Jeff Banos, 34, who appeared to be causing damage to a parked police cruiser.

Officers pursued Banos as he left the area. After looking back and seeing that he was being followed he reportedly began to run, at which time the officers gave chase to apprehend him.

Banos reportedly tripped and fell as he was running. A pursuing officer said that he heard the sound of a metallic object hitting the ground as he fell.

Banos rose from the ground and continued to run, according to reports, and when officers caught up with him he struggled with them, resisting their efforts to restrain him.

The man was eventually handcuffed and placed under arrest.

Inspection of the damaged cruiser showed that the rear window had been smashed and there were several gouge marks on one of the doors.

A large flashlight was found near the area where Banos fell.

Blood spots were reportedly found on pieces of the police cruiser’s smashed window. During booking, police noted that Banos had cuts and blood on his hands.

He has been charged with resisting arrest, destruction of property over $250, and disorderly conduct.