By: Tracie Carter
Image Credit: Jersey Shore Online
An Ocean County resident is facing multiple criminal charges after allegedly assaulting several police officers during a New Year’s Day encounter in Lacey Township, according to a statement released online by the Lacey Township Police Department.
Officials said 44-year-old Matthew Hawthorne, of Forked River, was taken into custody and charged with resisting arrest, aggravated assault on law enforcement, and obstructing the administration of law.
Police also issued several motor vehicle summonses, including improper use of a horn and reckless driving.
The incident occurred Thursday at approximately 7:15 a.m., when officers were in the area of Sarasota Drive conducting a follow-up investigation in which Hawthorne had been identified as a suspect.
Authorities did not release additional details regarding the nature of that investigation.
According to police, officers approached Hawthorne after he arrived at the location and informed him that he was under arrest while he remained seated inside his vehicle.
Hawthorne allegedly exited the car and struck an officer in the head multiple times, prompting a struggle.
Police reported that a Taser was deployed several times during the confrontation but was initially ineffective as Hawthorne continued to resist and assault officers.
He was eventually subdued and placed under arrest.
Hawthorne was transported to the Ocean County Jail, where he is being held pending a court appearance, authorities said.
Three officers sustained non-life-threatening injuries during the incident, according to police. No additional information was immediately released as the case remains under review.