Officers attempting to pull over a 27-year-old Newark man during a random check was punched in the face after a struggle ensued last night.
According to authorities, Victor Morales, an alleged Bloods gang member, was initially pulled over after a routine patrol. However, once police ran the plates of the Acura sedan, records showed plated belonged to a brown Volvo.
As police attempted to pull Morales over, he crashed into two parked cars in the area of Lake Street, authorities said.
Morales who tried to flee by foot, punched an officer in the face during a brief struggle.
A Taurus Judge 45/410 caliber handgun was seized from Morales's waistband, according to officials. Police also seized a black ski mask, five cell phones, and a small bag of marijuana inside the vehicle.
A K-9 search of the car's exterior indicated there may be additional drugs there, Fontoura said.
Morales was charged with weapons and assault charges, and was issued several driving summonses, authorities said.
During Morales' arraignment, a $100,000 cash bond was set.