Man arrested in Austin police officer assault

A Mankato man faces charges after he allegedly struck a police officer during a routine traffic stop in Austin.

The 24-year-old man was pulled over early Saturday because of a light problem on his car. But once the officer ran his driver's license, he discovered the man's license was suspended and tried to arrest him for driving after suspension.

The Austin Daily Herald reports the man allegedly tried to restart his car and drive away, so the officer grabbed him by the arm and pulled him out of the car. That's when the man allegedly struck the officer in the face.

Other officers arrived to help restrain the driver. The officer who was struck had swelling on his face.

The case is being forwarded to the county attorney's office.

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Information from: Austin Daily Herald

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