Man charged with assault of two Perry police officers

Two police officers suffered minor injuries after being assaulted during an investigation Monday evening.

At 7:58 p.m., police were called to the home of Joseph Copodonna, 42, of 4144 Stump Ave. SW, for an assault. Copodonna allegedly threw another person to the floor, Police Chief Mike Pomesky said. During the investigation, Copodonna, who had walked away from the home before police arrived, struck Officer Gary Fabynick. He then resisted arrest.

“We had a victim report that we was assaulted by Copodonna,” Pomesky said. “During the assault, the victim fell to the floor. During the investigation, he assaulted an officer by striking him in the face. He continued to resist arrest, but was eventually booked in jail.”

During the course of treatment at a local hospital, Copodonna allegedly assaulted another officer, Andrea Blanc.

Copodonna has been charged with two fourth-degree felony counts of assault, and one count of fifth-degree felony obstructing official business. He was also charged with misdemeanor assault and resisting arrest. He was booked in the Stark County Jail.

Copodonna pleaded not guilty in Massillon Municipal Court during an arraignment Tuesday. He is due back in court Wednesday.