Police say assault charges have been filed following a ‘chaotic’ incident that happened at the Ithaca Commons early-Saturday.
Around 1:20 a.m. police were on foot patrol in the Commons when they witnessed a male subject, later identified as Cadji Furgeson, 26, of Ithaca run across the Commons – strike another man in the face – knocking him to the ground.
Police attempted to intervene, and while attempting to take Ferguson into custody – another individual – identified as Rose Degroat, 22, of Ithaca attacked an officer from behind.
Police say that officer was struck repeatedly in the head. Degroat then struck another officer in the face before being taken into custody.
The first officer experienced head pain and was treated by Bangs Ambulance. The second officer sustained cuts to his face, but declined further treatment.
Police say the incident caused numerous bystanders, most of whom were uninvolved in the original incident to try various forms of interference in the officers’ attempt to make the lawful arrests.
Police say they used discretion in addressing the crowd and only one additional person, later identified as Riley Johnson, 21, of Ithaca was charged with disorderly conduct.
Due to the chaotic scene, the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office also responded to the area to provide additional personnel.
Degroat was arraigned on April 6th on two counts of second-degree attempted assault for attacking the uniformed police officer and one count of resisting arrest for interfering with the lawful arrest of Furgeson.
Degroat was released on her own recognizance and is scheduled to appear in Ithaca City Court at a later date.
Ferguson and Johnson were both charged with disorderly conduct, which is a violation, and released on appearance tickets.
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