LONDON, KY - Laurel County Sheriff John Root is reporting that: Laurel Sheriff's Deputy Bobby Roberts arrested Gabriel Merida age 18 of Corbin on Friday night March 22, 2024 at approximately 8:40 PM.
The arrest occurred off Maple Grove School Road, approximately 5 miles southwest of London after Deputy Roberts was dispatched to a complaint of a male subject trying to break into a residence there.
When Deputy Roberts arrived at the scene, he noted observing the male suspect beside the homeowner’s Ford Mustang punching it.
When the suspect observed Deputy Roberts he attempted to flee to the residence but was detained by the homeowner until Deputy Roberts attempted to place the suspect in custody.
The suspect scuffled with Deputy Roberts as the suspect continued to scream and curse.
As Deputy Roberts attempted to obtain information the suspect gave a false name.
While being escorted to the patrol vehicle the suspect actively resisted and attempted to spit upon Deputy Roberts and continued to struggle with Deputy Roberts and following another scuffle on a gravel driveway there, the suspect was taken into custody.
EMS was summoned to the scene. Merida received medical attention for a cut from contact with the gravel drive.
Gabriel Merida was charged with:
- Criminal trespass – first-degree
- Public intoxication – controlled substances
- Resisting arrest
- Disorderly conduct – second-degree
- Assault – third-degree – police officer is victim – communicable bodily fluid
- Giving officer false identifying information
- Criminal mischief – first-degree
- Criminal mischief – third-degree
- Fleeing or evading police – second-degree – on foot
This individual was lodged in the Laurel County Correctional Center.
Photo of accused attached is courtesy of the Laurel County Correctional Center.
Assisting on scene were: Laurel Sheriff's K-9/shift Sgt. Gary Mehler and Deputy Zach Allen.
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