The man accused of breaking an Anchorage police officer’s arm Wednesday night was arraigned Friday.
Dylan Farrell, 29, made his first court appearance Friday in connection with this week’s attack of off-duty police officer Mark LaPorte. Prosecutors say Farrell broke LaPorte’s arm Wednesday night outside the Rustic Goat Restaurant, and faces charges of second-degree assault and resisting arrest.
The incident occurred after LaPorte escorted Farrell out of the restaurant when it became clear to the officer that Farrell was growing increasingly violent, yelling obscenities at diners.
“I showed him my badge,” LaPorte recalled. “I actually put it right in his face and said, ‘I’m APD, you’re leaving.’ I grabbed him in a wrist lock to escort him out to take him outside. At that time he seemed to relax and comply until we got outside.”
Once outside, Farrell reportedly made attempts to re-enter the restaurant, but was blocked by LaPorte. Farrell allegedly began assaulting LaPorte, at one point breaking LaPorte’s arm. Another diner was able to assist LaPorte in subduing Farrell, and other officers arrived on scene to take him into custody.
LaPorte was taken to a hospital for treatment of his arm, and will be unable to perform his usual duties on patrol until his arm heals, he says.