Roanoke Police Department posted body-cam footage to a video of a viral arrest
By: -----
Roanoke, VA - On May 10, at 1:35 p.m., an officer with RPD responded to the 2000 block of Carvin Street NE for a report of trespassing. When the officer arrived, he reportedly found a man, later identified as 34-year-old Ronnie Lee Reed, of Martinsville, getting out of a large U-Haul.
According to the department, the officer began speaking with Reed and determined that he had active warrants. Officials said the incident occurred as the officer attempted to take Reed into custody.
"The officer attempted to take Mr. Reed into custody by grabbing his wrist, and he then swung a fist at the officer," explained the department. "They both fall to the ground, and the officer lands on top of Mr. Reed. He produces a knife in his right hand and begins threatening to kill himself and stab the officer."
RPD stated that the arresting officer told Reed to drop the knife multiple times and then struck him in the face.
"The officer tells Mr. Reed multiple times to drop the knife and delivers closed fist strikes to his face," said RPD. "Once Mr. Reed drops the knife, the officer takes him into custody."
According to the department, Reed was arrested on the outstanding warrants and additionally charged with assault and battery on law enforcement, attempt to intimidate or impede law enforcement and resisting arrest.
Authorities said he was treated for non-life-threatening injuries at the detention center.