Festus Police Officer John Beffa was injured while subduing a man who was trying to evade “involuntary commitment” to Sunnyhill, a Festus residential care facility for people who are unable to live by themselves. The incident occurred about 7:30 p.m. Saturday (Jan. 12) at the facility, 134 Gray St., Festus Police Chief Tim Lewis said.
He said Beffa stopped the 44-year-old St. Louis man from getting away from the facility, where he was being admitted.
“The officer tackled (the suspect) and got a broken finger and injured his right elbow,” Lewis said. “He’s out on workman’s comp. No idea when he’ll be able to return to work. He’s still (undergoing medical evaluation).”
The St. Louis man was not injured, but is undergoing psychiatric evaluation.
Lewis said Festus Police will seek charges against him.