Suspect Turns Violent, Allegedly Batters Two Deputies as they Attempt to Arrest Him During Trespassing Investigation 

A suspect turned violent and allegedly battered two deputies as they attempted to arrest him during a trespassing investigation.

The Union Parish Sheriff's Office (UPSO) reported on April 3, 2023, that on March 31, they received a trespassing complaint near Farmerville, Louisiana. Deputies were told that Christofer Blake Powell, 28, of Farmerville, was seen on the caller's property gathering up fishing rods from their boat. Deputies were told that Powell had previously been caught on this land by the owners and advised not to return because the owners suspected him of stealing things.

Powell, who was in a nearby residence, was contacted by deputies. When deputies attempted to arrest Powell, he reportedly began to struggle, allegedly striking a deputy in the face with his forearm. He then reportedly pushed the deputy to the ground and threw the deputy's handcuffs. At this point, another deputy was able to subdue Powell, who continued to kick the arresting deputies despite being told repeatedly to stop resisting arrest.

 Both deputies suffered abrasions and bruising to their arms and knees, with one deputy also suffering bruising to their shoulder.

Deputies also reportedly located a bag of suspected marijuana on Powell’s person during the arrest. Powell was charged with Criminal Trespassing, Possession of Schedule I Narcotics, Battery on a Police Officer (2 counts), and Resisting a Police Officer with Force or Violence (2 counts), which is a felony. Powell’s bond was set at $50,000.00.

An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. A person is presumed innocent until proven guilty.