COLUMBIA— Police shocked a man with a Taser after he reportedly assaulted a Columbia police officer during an incident at Lakota Coffee Co. on Ninth Street on Thursday afternoon.
Jared Hoft, 24, was arrested on charges of third degree assault and resisting arrest. Graham Bailey, 26, was arrested on charges of resisting arrest and posting bills or painting government signs, and Jonathan DuCharme*, 21, was issued a summons to appear in court in connection with third-degree assault.
Earlier that day, Hoft, Bailey and Ricco Marshall, who hasn't been charged with anything, were repeatedly entering the establishment and writing “Free Crowley”* on newspapers and in the bathroom, said Officer Jessie Haden. Haden said she didn't know what "Free Crowley"* refers to.
DuCharme, an employee of Lakota Coffee Co., told the men to leave and knocked Ricco Marshall’s cell phone out of his hand, Haden said.
Initial responding Officer Tamera Adams called Officer Chad Craig for assistance upon arriving at the scene, Haden said.
Hoft walked by Craig and “punched him in the head,” Haden said.
Adams shocked Hoft with a Taser and, after a short struggle, he was handcuffed and arrested.
Craig was treated at an urgent care center for cuts to his eye and scratches on the back of his neck, Haden said. The officer has been released from the center.
Supervising officers were then called and, upon arrival, identified Bailey as a suspect for placing stickers saying “Free Crowley”* on government signs. When confronted, he ran away but was caught on Paquin Street by police.
Hoft is being held in Boone County Jail on a $1,000 bond. Bailey to posted bond immediately.