Woonsocket Police officers responding to 580 Front St. Oct. 7 at 8:30 p.m. for a report of a suicidal woman who called saying, "I don't want to die," wound up defending themselves from her while trying to defend her from herself.
Officers Linden Karsner and Gregory Klocek arrived at the address and were directed by passers-by to a woman in front of the property on the lawn crying. She was later identified as Tristen K. Hall, 29, of 580 Front St., Apt. 2., according to Karsner's report. As they approached her, Hall reported raised her hands and said, "Just kill me."
Hall was distraught about a man who had left her drunk and sick in the bathroom, she told the officers. Klocek left to retrieve warm clothes for Hall from her apartment. He spoke with Hall's roommate, who said it's unusual for her to act as she'd been doing.
Meanwhile, in front of the apartment, Karsner inquired about Hall's children, asking where they were, which apparently incensed Hall. Karsner attempted to place Hall in handcuffs, but only got one onto the woman before she turned and attacked the officer. The woman straddled the officer and began punching her in the face when Klocek returned.
Klocek took Hall by the shoulder and threw her off Karsner, and a struggle ensued. Klocek subdued her after several punches, including one to the face, according to his report. Klocek finished handcuffing Hall.
After the struggle, Karsner reported her left thumb had been injured. Klocek reported his left pinky finger knuckle hurt, but did not seek treatment.
The officers charged Hall with assault on police officers, a felony, resisting arrest and disorderly conduct.
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