Branford Man, A Belligerent Eatery Customer, Attacks, Punches Cops: PD

BRANFORD, CT — Late last Friday night, police were called to The Stand to help restaurant management deal with a dispute with a customer. When cops got there, they learned David Massey, 52, was told by management to leave the premises, but he refused, police said.

While an acquaintance of Massey was being detained by police, Massey assaulted police officer Mitchell-Carter "by punching him multiple times in the back of the head and neck," police said in a post to Facebook.

Then, Branford police officer Luzzi and a restaurant employee "took Massey to the ground where he continued to actively struggle; handcuffs were only able to be placed to the front of his body due to his continued resistance," police said.

Then, officer Suraci arrived to help Luzzi in "attempting to lift Massey off the ground," police said.

"Massey then struck officer Suraci in the face, fell to the ground and took officer Luzzi with him," police said, adding, "He was then able to place officer Luzzi in a leg lock."

More cops arrived and "numerous verbal commands were given to Massey to release Ofc. Luzzi," police said.

"Massey attempted to bite the officers and continued to tighten his leglock and roll on officer Luzzi. Massey was struck by officers to release his hold on Luzzi. Once released, officers backed away from Massey and a taser was drawn, however, not used on Massey as he then complied with officers," police said.

Branford resident Massey was charged with three counts of assault on a police officer, one count of second-degree breach of peace and one count of second-degree criminal trespass, police said.

"Massey refused medical attention and was later released after posting bond," it was noted. Officers Luzzi, Mitchell-Carter and Suraci were treated at Yale New Haven Hospital for minor injuries.

In accordance with department policy, all use of force by department members is subject to thorough review. The department is actively engaging in this review, police said.

"It is important to for our agency to share this initial information due to video which is circulating that shows a limited view of the incident," police said.

Any members of the public with video of the incident are being requested to provide the video to Det. Lt. Eula @ Deula@branfordpolice.com or contact the PD at 203-481-4241 for information on how to share.

Massey was charged in January with felonies including burglary and stalking (fear of death, fear of physical harm), as well as a number of other charges including criminal trespass, possession of high capacity magazines, and disorderly conduct. He posted $150,000 surety bond on that case.