Trenton Police Officers Hospitalized After Traffic Stop Turns Violent

Two Trenton police officers were hospitalized Wednesday night after police said a man assaulted several officers as they attempted to arrest him following a traffic stop.

The officers were injured while taking 31-year-old Derek Warren Woodward, of Trenton, into custody.

Police attempted to make a traffic stop after Woodward was allegedly driving 87 mph in a 35-mph zone on Fort Street just south of Sibley Road.

After a low-speed chase, Woodward exited a silver Pontiac Grand Am in the 400 block of Buffalo Street, according to a Trenton police report.

An officer tackled Woodward, who then began kicking the officer in the torso and ran onto the porch of a nearby residence, according to the same report.

Police said Woodward continued to resist arrest which resulted in the injuries to the officers.

Officers used pepper spray on Woodward and, after additional struggles, were able to place handcuffs on him, put him in a patrol car and transport him to the Trenton Police Department.

The two injured officers were transported to Oakwood Southshore Medical Center, where they were treated and released.

Trenton Police Chief Jim Nardone said the officers might not be able to return to work for several months as a result of their injuries.

"As a result of this incident both officers are recovering at home and we're thankful for that," Nardone said. "I think sometimes the public that we serve underestimates the dangers that our officers face on a daily basis."

Woodward was arraigned on five felony charges at about 3:30 p.m. Friday before Judge Jennifer Coleman-Hesson at the 33rd District Court in Woodhaven.

Woodward is charged with one count of fleeing in the third degree, one count of operating while intoxicated in the third degree, two counts of assaulting a police officer resulting in an injury to the officer, one count of assaulting a police officer, one count of operating while license is suspended and one count of open container of alcohol in a vehicle.

If convicted on all charges, Woodward could face up to 18 years in prison.

A preliminary examination of the evidence against Woodward is scheduled for 9 a.m. Feb. 26 at 33rd District Court.

Coleman-Hesson set Woodward's bond at $75,000.

Officers from the Riverview Police Department assisted in the arrest.

*A previous version of the article stated six felonies.

Contact editor Nate Stemen natestemen@patch.com for questions on police reports.

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