Wanted felon arrested after Hemet foot pursuit

HEMET – A local man was arrested after he fled from a Hemet Police officer Sept. 2. The officer saw Roberson walking through Gibbel Park in the 2500 block of W. Florida Avenue in Hemet and recognized him from previous contacts. The officer also knew that Roberson was wanted for a parole violation.

The man, who was later identified as Damonte Terrell Roberson, 24, of Hemet, was arrested after first running from and then fighting with officers attempting to take him into custody.

After the arrest Hemet Police Deputy Chief Rob Webb praised his officers, saying, “This is a great example of how a department that is committed to community based policing makes a positive difference. Our officers know the people living in their beat and take great pride and ownership in their assigned areas.”

The incident began at 7:47 a.m. when a Hemet Police officer was conducting extra patrol in the area of the park. The officer immediately recognized Roberson and knew he was wanted for parole violation.

When Roberson saw the officer approaching him he immediately began running through the park towards the nearby Diamond Inn. The pursuing officer broadcast Roberson’s description and direction of travel to other officers in the area.

Another officer saw Roberson climbing a fence between the parking lots separating the Diamond Inn and the Budget Inn.

The officer approached Roberson in his patrol car “but before the officer could even get out of his vehicle, Roberson charged at him with his fists clenched,” Webb explained. “The officer had to use the door of his vehicle to knock Roberson back before Roberson could strike him.”

After knocking Roberson backwards with his door, the officer was able to get out of his vehicle and a struggle between the two ensued. “Ultimately Roberson was taken into custody,” Webb explained.

After his arrest, officers transported Webb to a local hospital for medical clearance required for booking. He was then transported to Southwest Detention Center where he was booked on suspicion of felony resisting arrest, being under the influence of a controlled substance, and violation of parole.

He is being held without bail and is scheduled to be seen at an unspecified court Sept. 7.

 

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