From staff reports
Copyright 2006 The Times-Picayune Publishing Company
A police officer shot a drug suspect in the chin early Sunday after the man allegedly cut the officer on the hand in the French Quarter as he was being arrested, New Orleans police said.
Police said Michael Weaver, 21, of Picayune, Miss., was in good condition at a hospital. New Orleans police officer Bryan Harrison, of the 8th District, was treated at a hospital and released.
Police said Harrison was walking in the 900 block of St. Louis Street at 2 a.m. when he saw Weaver inhaling crack cocaine. Harrison, who was on duty but in plainclothes, identified himself and showed his credentials, Public Information Officer Sgt. Michael Brenckle said.
Police said Harrison told Weaver he was under arrest, but Weaver became violent and cut Harrison on the hand with a sharp object.
In fear of his life, police said, Harrison shot Weaver once.
Police said Weaver was charged with attempted first-degree murder, possession of cocaine and drug paraphernalia, resisting arrest and possession of a concealed weapon.
Police said the concealed weapon was a knife that was seized at the scene. Police said they also found a broken bottle, but would not say whether it was either the bottle or knife that was used to cut Harrison.
Police said homicide detective Sgt. Troy Williams is in charge of the investigation. The police Public Integrity Bureau will conduct an independent review of the matter, police said.
Harrison has been reassigned to administrative duties pending the outcome of the investigation.
May 22, 2006