Teen charged after allegedly trying to punch officer

Published 9:53 am Thursday, October 6, 2011

An Austin woman who allegedly attempted to punch and slap a police officer was criminally charged in Mower County District Court.

Sandy Cruzita Torres, 19, was arrested Monday when officers found her darting in and out of traffic “hysterically.” She was charged in court Wednesday with fourth-degree assault of a correctional employee, fourth-degree assault of a peace officer and obstructing legal process.

Torres appeared intoxicated at the time of the incident, according to a police report.

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Police Chief Brian Krueger said Monday that Torres repeatedly tried to walk away from the officers when they tried to talk to her. As the officers were trying to calm her down, she allegedly tried to strike one of them, but he blocked the blow with his arm. She then reportedly tried to slap him in the face. Eventually, police sprayed her with Mace and began transporting her to the jail.

Torres continued to verbally assault the officers, according to Krueger, and she reportedly kicked a member of the jail staff in the shin.

Torres is scheduled to enter her plea on Oct. 13.