MIAMI SPRINGS, Fla. – A man wanted by police tried to make a quick stop at a Pollo Tropical in Miami Springs but left with a lot more than he could chew, according to authorities.
Miami Springs police said they responded to Pollo Tropical, located at 4211 NW 36th St., in search of 49-year-old Tommy Chavez, who had an active bench warrant out of Miami-Dade County for petit theft from a separate incident.
Following his arrest, authorities said Chavez was transported to a Miami Springs police station for processing on Jan. 16.
Upon arrival, police said Chavez began to kick the rear driver-side window of the police vehicle.
To prevent any damage to the vehicle’s window, authorities said they attempted to escort Chavez into a holding cell located inside the police station.
After opening the rear door of the police car, police said Chavez began kicking his legs and struck one officer in the thigh.
Chavez also snapped one of the hinges off his handcuffs, which allowed the free movement of his hands, according to his arrest report.
While attempting to place another set of handcuffs on the suspect, police said Chavez grabbed the arresting officer by the neck and would not let go after multiple orders.
During this altercation, police said the officer was struck below his left eye socket by Chavez’s elbow, which caused bruising to the area.
Moments later, backup officers were able to handcuff Chavez, but those were eventually snapped loose and replaced by new ones.
After being escorted to the back of another police car, authorities said Chavez spit in his arresting officer’s face.
According to jail records, Chavez is facing one count each of battery on a police officer, resisting an officer with violence and criminal mischief.
Local 10 News spoke with Miami Springs Police Officer Janice Simon who shared why it’s important that officers make sure that the handcuffs are secure when making an arrest.
“It’s more dangerous than it’s ever been,” she said. ”The main reason we put handcuffs on is not only for the safety of the subject but for the safety of the officers because the hands and the feet are what can kill us.
As of Wednesday, he remained at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center where his bond was set at $4,400.