A 32-year-old Surrey man has been charged with allegedly assaulting a Delta police officer following an incident after a traffic stop for suspected impaired driving.
According to a news release from police, officers responded to a report of an impaired driver on Highway 17 and 80th Street at approximately 6:30 p.m. on Aug. 22.
Police say the reported vehicle was located by officers and a traffic stop was attempted. “The driver initially failed to stop for the officer,” said A/Insp. James Sandberg. “A short distance away, the vehicle stopped, the male driver got out of the car and charged at the officer. A conducted energy weapon failed to stop the man’s alleged assault.
“A second officer arrived on scene to assist, and while taking the male into custody, received injuries as a result of punches to his face and throat.”
Sandberg said the suspect, Sahib Punia, was arrested without further incident and did not receive any injury. The officer received medical care for his injuries.
As well as the charge of assaulting a police officer, Punia has been charged with dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, flight from police, and continues to be under investigation for impaired driving.
Punia has been released from custody following his court appearance.
