VENTURA : 2 Arrested in Attack on Police Officer

Two Oxnard men were arrested after attacking a Ventura police officer, authorities said Wednesday.

Thomas Hernandez, 21, and passenger Luis Ruiz, 23, were driving in west Ventura about 11:15 p.m. Tuesday when Officer Robert Slay tried to pull them over to investigate Hernandez’s possible involvement in an earlier accident, officials said.

Hernandez stopped, got out of the car and began shouting at Slay, Lt. Pat Miller said. Hernandez then got back into the car and sped away, Miller said.

Slay pursued the vehicle to West Harrison Street, where Hernandez lost control of his car and came to a stop.

Both Hernandez and Ruiz approached Slay and started to attack the officer, hitting him in the upper body and head, Miller said.

Slay was fighting with both men when two other officers arrived, Miller said. A police dog cornered one of the suspects, while Slay and another officer subdued the second, Miller said.

Hernandez was taken to Ventura County Jail on charges of battery on a police officer, resisting arrest and driving under the influence. His bail was set at $5,000. No charges were filed in the earlier accident.

Ruiz, who was charged with battery and resisting arrest, was released on written promise to appear in court.

Slay was uninjured in the incident.