Manahawkin Man Bites a Police Officer During Domestic Dispute

A Manahawkin man is in hot water after fighting with and then biting a Stafford Police officer Thursday. The incident happened at a Vessel Lane residence when officers were responding a domestic disturbance between a father and son.

24-year-old Eric Johnston is in the Ocean County Jail on $50,000 bail after being charged with Aggravated Assault on Police, Resisting Arrest and Terroristic Threats counts.

According to the Police Report, "On November 6, 2014 at approximately 11:15 pm, Stafford Township Police responded to Bluejacket Avenue in reference to a domestic dispute between a father and his son. Upon arrival, officers were met outside by the father who informed them that his son, later identified as Eric Johnston, was inside the residence throwing things and threatening to kill him. Officer MacFarlane, Officer Mauro and Sergeant Haldenwang approached the residence in order to speak with Eric who was sitting in front of the house. As officer's began to speak with Eric he became irate and began to threaten his father once more, stating that if he was to apply for a restraining order he would burn down the house."

"At this time Eric's father was escorted to Police Headquarters in order to apply for a restraining order as several officer's stood by Eric. After the restraining order was granted, Eric became increasingly angry and stated that he would not leave the residence without a fight and that police would have to physically remove him."

"The officers entered the residence and were met with resistance from Eric. During the altercation, Officer MacFarlane was bit on the right wrist by Mr. Johnston.

"Johnston was detained and transported to Police Headquarters where he continued to be irate and proceeded to fight with officers. "