NORTHAMPTON — The Northampton Police officer who was allegedly struck in the face Saturday — breaking his nose — will remain out for the time being and is expected to eventually undergo surgery, police said.
Officer Scott T. Gregory pulled over a Nissan Maxima around 6 a.m. Saturday after he determined the driver, Hakim Stewart, was operating with an expired inspection sticker, according to the police report. Once Gregory made the stop, he also determined that Stewart’s license was suspended.
Brittany J. Chesson, 25, of Florence, left the vehicle, yelling and screaming “in slurred words,” at police as they arrested Stewart, according to the report.
An “overwhelming” odor of alcohol came from Chesson’s mouth as she continued to yell, and officers determined she was intoxicated, according to the report.
“Is it OK if I get my purse from the back seat, or are you going to shoot me?” Chesson asked Gregory, according to the report.
Chesson then hurled a glass bottle at another officer, which shattered at his feet, as she removed her backpack from the back of the car, police said.
After she retrieved her backpack, Chesson — fists clenched and arms flailing — walked toward Gregory and hit him in nose with her closed right fist, police said. Gregory responded by delivering a punch to Chesson’s left cheek.
Chesson pleaded not guilty Monday in Northampton District Court to disorderly conduct, resisting arrest and aggravated assault. She was released on $1,000 personal surety and is due back in court May 10, according to court records.
Northampton Lt. Alan Borowski said Tuesday that he was unsure when Gregory would return to the field.
Michael Majchrowicz can be reached at mmajchrowicz@gazettenet.com.