BATH — Members of the New York State Police responded to a report of an assault at Ira Davenport Hospital on May 23.
The initial investigation revealed that Richard L. Freeland, 29, of Bath, assaulted a nurse during an altercation while undergoing evaluation at the facility.
Troopers arrived at approximately 8:34 a.m. after being dispatched by Steuben County 911.
The victim reported being intentionally elbowed in the nose by Freeland, causing physical injury that required medical attention.
Freeland was arrested without further incident and transported to SP Bath for processing.
While in custody, he became combative, attempted to tamper with evidence, and assaulted law enforcement officers.
He attempted to conceal a New York State Police body camera, stole police property, and caused damage to handcuffs, leg shackles, and a patrol room wall.
Freeland also attempted to strike and spit on troopers, successfully spitting on one officer.
Further investigation revealed he had falsely identified himself upon hospital admission.
Freeland was charged with Assault 2nd (D Felony), Tampering with Physical Evidence (E Felony), three counts of Criminal Mischief 4th (A Misdemeanor), two counts of Petit Larceny (A Misdemeanor), Falsifying Business Records (A Misdemeanor), Resisting Arrest (A Misdemeanor), Obstruction of Governmental Administration (A Misdemeanor), and two counts of Harassment 2nd (Violation).
He was processed and transported to the Steuben County Jail for CAP arraignment.
