Man attacked officer by throat

HUGHESVILLE – After allegedly punching Muncy Township Patrolman Anthony Oeler in the face, 46-year-old Rodney Staggert grabbed the officer’s throat and held him for several moments even as a fellow officer used a stun gun on him.

Rodney Staggert, who was believed to be under the influence of synthetic marijuana, showed no reaction and held on to Oeler’s throat as Hughesville Patrolman David E. Williams shocked the man with his stun gun three to four times, according to an affidavit.

Oeler somehow managed to break free from Staggert’s grip and also tried to get Staggert under control by using his stun gun, the affidavit said.

The confrontation occurred inside 195 S. Third St., where officers were called to handle a “disorderly man,” Staggert, about 7:10 p.m. on Jan. 9, court records state.

Police allege Staggert also kicked Williams in the groin area. Only after Staggert stopped with his combative behavior did the officers manage to get him handcuffed.

Police did not say what Staggert, who lives at 1666 Rabbittown Road, Pennsdale, was doing at the home.

He was taken before District Judge Jon E. Kemp and arraigned on charges of aggravated and simple assault, resisting arrest, disorderly conduct, criminal mischief and harassment. He was released on $35,000 bail.