BEDFORD — A Bedford man was arrested early Monday morning after police say he became aggressive toward emergency responders and resisted officers attempting to take him into custody.
According to a probable cause affidavit, Bedford Police Department Capt. Max Uebelhoer was dispatched at approximately 3:39 a.m. July 27 to an apartment in the 1200 block of 13th Street after a man called requesting to speak with an officer.
Dispatch advised the caller reported concerns that included possible gunshots being fired near his home, a fear of bugs, and a feeling that something bad was going to happen. The caller also denied having any mental health issues.
Upon arrival, officers identified the man as 33-year-old James L. Self Jr. Police reported Self appeared to be acting erratically, with rapid speech, heavy breathing and difficulty standing still.
The affidavit states Self told officers he believed gunshots were going to happen nearby and pointed toward his head when asked where he received that information.
Officer Hamilton arrived to assist, and IU Health ambulance personnel responded shortly afterward. Police said Self began reading Bible verses and continued doing so despite requests from officers and medical personnel to speak with them so they could provide assistance.
According to the affidavit, Self repeatedly attempted to move closer to Capt. Uebelhoer despite being asked to give officers space. Police said Self later declined medical assistance and signed a refusal form.
Officers reported Self requested to be taken somewhere safe, but after being advised it was best for him to remain inside his residence, he became upset and began telling ambulance personnel to leave.
The affidavit states Self then grabbed an EMT with both hands. Officers attempted to place Self into custody, but police said he resisted by tensing his arms and pulling away multiple times. While officers attempted to gain control of his arm, Self allegedly continued holding onto the EMT’s shirt, requiring an officer to forcibly remove his hand.
Police said Self continued refusing commands and had to be taken to the ground before officers were able to place him in handcuffs.
Self was transported to the Lawrence County Jail and faces preliminary charges of battery against a public safety official and resisting law enforcement by force.
The charges are allegations, and Self is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
