Suspect Assaults and Attempts to Disarm Officers During Arrest

ARLINGTON, Va. – The Arlington County Police Department is announcing charges against a suspect who assaulted and attempted to disarm officers during his arrest. Jack Witherell, 25, of Arlington, Va was arrested and charged with Assault on Police (x5), Attempted Disarming of a Law Enforcement Officer (x3), Felony Destruction of Property and Assault and Battery. He is being held without bond in the Arlington County Detention Facility.

At approximately 8:42 p.m. on April 1, police were dispatched to the 2100 block of N. Culpeper Street for the report of a fight. The preliminary investigation indicates the male suspect and male victim became involved in a verbal dispute inside a community center. The suspect then exited the community center and struck the victim's parked vehicle with objects, causing the front and back windows to shatter. The suspect then began walking to his vehicle when the victim approached. The suspect made threatening statements implying a firearm and assaulted the victim resulting in minor injuries.

Responding officers located the suspect inside the passenger seat of a parked vehicle, issued commands and attempted to take him into custody. The suspect was combative and non-compliant, made threatening statements and attempted to grab three officers' firearms. With the assistance of additional arriving officers, he was taken into custody. During the incident, the suspect assaulted five officers including kicking and spitting at them. The five officers sustained minor injuries with one seeking medical treatment at an area hospital. The suspect was evaluated at an area hospital before being transported to the Arlington County Detention Facility.

“The officers demonstrated great restraint in the face of danger while attempting to subdue a combative, non-compliant suspect who repeatedly reached for their firearms,” said Chief Andy Penn. “Their actions and the safe resolution of this incident highlights their unwavering commitment to the safety of the Arlington community and reinforces the significance of teamwork, strong training and professionalism.”

This remains an active investigation and anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact the Arlington County Police Department’s Tip Line at 703-228-4180 or ACPDTipline@arlingtonva.us. Information may also be reported anonymously through the Arlington County Crime Solvers hotline at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477).

A booking photograph related to this arrest is not available at this time.

Media Contact

Communications Manager
Ashley Savage
703-228-4331

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