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Video: Citizens help take down suspect attacking Fla. cop

Officer Michael Collins attempted to arrest Luis Manual Vila when Vila began punching the officer

By Police1 Staff

TAMPA, Fla. — Two bystanders came to the aid of an officer who was under attack Wednesday.

According to the Bradenton Herald, Officer Michael Collins attempted to stop Luis Manual Vila because he matched the description of a suspect. When Collins stopped Vila, Vila became violent, wrestled the officer to the ground and repeatedly punched him.

Ray Freeman and Dolores Lyle were passing by when they saw the officer on the ground. They told the Bradenton Herald that they helped hold down Vila’s legs while Collins handcuffed the suspect.

Collins was transported to a local hospital with non-serious injuries.

“It’s a miracle that no one was seriously injured. This could have ended tragically,” Police Chief Eric Ward said. “This is a true example of law enforcement and the community working together to keep our city safe.”

Vila was charged with battery on a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest and burglary.

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