Man Strikes Cop's Head With Taser During Contentious Arrest: Des Plaines PD

DES PLAINES, IL — A Chicago man is facing three felony charges after police say he struck an officer in the head with a taser during his arrest earlier this week. Jose Quintana, 55, of the 3800 block of S. California Avenue, is accused of aggravated battery to a peace officer, disarming a peace officer, and criminal damage to government supported property.

The charges were approved by the Cook County State's Attorney's Office.

Des Plaines police responded to a store in the 800 block of S. Elmhurst Road at 6:19 p.m. Oct. 28, for a report that Quintana was no longer wanted on the property. An employee told police that he was originally inside the store, bothering customers. After the employee called 911, Quintana reportedly left the property.

Police found Quintana behind a neighboring building, where they made contact with him. They said a strong odor of alcohol was emanating from him, and he was speaking with slurred speech as officers attempted to ask him why he was in the area. Due to his perceived intoxication level, the Des Plaines Fire Department was called to the scene.

While escorting Quintana toward the fire personnel, police said he became resistant and combative, while also flailing his arms and legs in an attempt to hit them. Quintana then reportedly grabbed a Taser off one of the officer's vests and struck another officer in the head with it. He was placed into handcuffs and taken to a local hospital for non-life-threatening reasons.