The Marlboro Township Police Department is reviewing body camera footage and anticipates filing charges following a violent encounter during a mental health emergency on Sunday.
Shortly before 4 p.m. on June 15, Chief Ron Devies and Officer Martincic responded alongside the Marlboro Fire Department to a residence for a report of an attempted suicide. Upon arrival, first responders encountered an agitated individual who quickly became combative, police said.
The subject refused to comply with police and EMS orders, leading to a physical struggle. During the altercation, the individual attempted to grab Chief Devies’ duty weapon. Devies was able to break free, and the subject was eventually subdued and transported to a hospital for further evaluation.
Chief Devies sustained a bite wound and scratches and received treatment at a local hospital. Officer Martincic was not injured. One firefighter was kicked during the incident but did not require medical attention.
In a statement, the department acknowledged the individual was experiencing a mental health crisis but emphasized the importance of safety for those responding.
“While we are sympathetic to the fact that the subject was suffering from a mental crisis, the safety of our First Responders will remain our #1 priority,” the department said.
No names have been released, and the incident remains under investigation.
