A man accused of pulling a knife on law enforcement officials entered not guilty pleas in Jefferson County district court January 4. Mario Alicea is charged with two counts of felony assault on a peace officer, resisting arrest and obstructing a peace officer. Law enforcement officials allege Alicea was arrested December 12 after a report that someone who was passing forged keno tickets was in the Papa Ray’s parking lot at Montana City.
When officers questioned him, he at first gave a false name and birthdate, says a charging document filed with the court. Upon further questioning, Alicea reached into a pocket and pulled a knife, say officers. Sheriff Craig Doolittle drew his weapon and ordered the suspect to drop the knife, which he refused to do despite repeated requests.
Once Alicea did drop the knife, he refused to follow other law enforcement orders to put his hands behind his head and get on his knees, they said. Eventually Deputy Jason Korst wrestled Alicea into handcuffs, says the charging document. In court January 4, Alicea was ordered held on $50,000 bond and told not to leave the state without permission. The court also set other conditions on any release if Alicea posts bond.
