PATERSON, N.J. — A Paterson man has been arrested and charged with aggravated assault after allegedly attacking two emergency medical technicians from the Paterson Fire Department, authorities announced Wednesday.
Darian Jackson, Jr., 25, was taken into custody following an investigation by the Paterson Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit. He faces two counts of aggravated assault, a third-degree crime that carries a potential prison sentence of three to five years and a $15,000 fine.
The incident occurred early Saturday morning at 169 16th Avenue. According to police, EMS personnel had responded to a call about a person experiencing difficulty breathing. After securing the individual to a gurney, he asked to be removed. Once outside the building, the suspect allegedly attacked the EMTs, repeatedly punching one and kneeing the other before fleeing. Both victims were treated for minor injuries at St. Joseph’s Medical Center.
“Any attack on a public official performing their duty is unacceptable,” said Officer in Charge Patrick Murray. “These two firefighters took an oath to help anyone in need, which is exactly what they did for this suspect before they were violently attacked and assaulted.”
The case is being prosecuted by the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office. Jackson remains innocent until proven guilty.