Officer Russell H. Derricot of the Trenton Police Department was working off duty at the Wachovia Bank on South Broad and Liberty street Saturday.
At around 11:56 a.m., the bank's manager brought to Derricot's attention an unruly customer.
After being approached by Derricot, the customer, later identified as David Nemchik, 48, of Trenton, left the lobby, and walked to the drive in window and demanded service.
Officer Derricot then asked Nemchik to leave the bank's property.
Police say Nemchik then approached Derricot in a threatening manner.
A struggle ensued and Derricot fell backwards, striking his head on the pavement.
The suspect then fled the area.
Nemchik was soon apprehended in the area of Malone and Adeline streets. He was transported to the Capital Health Regional Medical Center to be treated for injuries sustained during the incident.
Officer Derricot was treated at Capital Health System at Mercer for a cut sustained to the back of his head; he was listed in stable condition. It was believed that at one point Officer Derricot lost consciousness; therefore a CAT scan was done, with negative results.
Trenton Mayor Tony Mack stated the following, "We are saddened by this morning's assault on one of our own, Officer Russell Derricot, our public safety personnel will not be intimated by lawlessness or flagrant disregard for order. The Trenton Police Department did a fine job quickly capturing the perpetrator. The events that occurred at the Wachovia Bank are being thoroughly investigated."
The suspect was charged with aggravated assault on a police officer and attempting to disarm a police officer; the suspect attempted to take Officer Derricot's issued "pepper spray" from his hand.
