OHIO — A Warren man is facing multiple charges after an incident at a local hospital in which police say he attempted to fight an officer using medical equipment as a weapon.
According to authorities, 45-year-old Charles Duke III was involved in a disturbance Saturday morning at St. Joseph’s Hospital.
Police say Duke became agitated after being treated and cleared by hospital staff but refused to leave the facility. During the confrontation, he allegedly broke off a metal IV pole and used it in a threatening manner, swinging it like a baseball bat at a hospital police officer.
When officers arrived, they found Duke barricaded behind a patient bed with oxygen tanks nearby. Police said he was also holding a metal tray, apparently using it as a shield. After repeated commands, Duke eventually dropped the items but still refused to comply with orders.
Officers ultimately used a taser to subdue him and take him into custody.
Court records show Duke has been charged with inducing panic, disorderly conduct and resisting arrest. Authorities also said he failed to appear for a scheduled arraignment, and a warrant has since been issued for his arrest.
