Wheelersburg man arrested for alleged assault on officer

Scioto County Sheriff David Thoroughman stated that on Saturday, March 8 at 8:34 a.m., the New Boston Police Department Dispatch Center called advising that one of their officers was allegedly being attacked in the parking lot of their police station. Deputies, detectives and two Portsmouth Police Officers responded to the officer in distress call.

The officer was taken to Southern Ohio Medical Center, where he was treated and released for their injuries. The suspect was also taken to Southern Ohio Medical Center for observation for possible drug usage. The suspect had no visible injuries, nor did he report any injuries.

Once the suspect was released from SOMC, he was transported to the sheriff’s office. Detectives learned that the suspect was allegedly acting erratic in the parking lot of the New Boston Police Department. The suspect then allegedly attempted to steal a motor vehicle, and the officer attempted to detain him when the suspect allegedly knocked the Taser from the officer’s hand. During the reported attack, the suspect allegedly punched the officer multiple times in his face and head.

The suspect then allegedly attacked an individual that was present and attempted to steal his vehicle. This person assisted the officer until additional law enforcement arrived.

Arrested was Kaleb D Ruth, 18, of Wheelersburg. Ruth was charged with felonious assault on an officer, a felony of the first degree; robbery, a felony of the third degree; two counts of grand theft auto, a felony of the fourth degree; and retaliation, a felony of the third degree. 

Anyone with information should contact Detective Sergeant Jodi Conkel at 740-351-1091.