CT man arrested for allegedly assaulting police officers following dispute at restaurant

A man was arrested at a restaurant in Branford last week after allegedly punching multiple police officers and putting one of them in a leg lock.

David Massey, 52, of Branford faces three counts of assault on a police officer and a single count each of second-degree breach of peace and first-degree criminal trespassing, according to the Branford Police Department.

Officers encountered Massey last Friday when they were called to The Stand restaurant just after 11:30 p.m. Police said the management of the restaurant had asked him to leave following a dispute but he refused.

As police were detaining an acquaintance of Massey, Massey allegedly punched an officer multiple times in the back of the head and neck, according to police.

Another officer and a restaurant employee then took Massey to the ground and he continued to struggle, police said. Police said they were only able to handcuff him in the front of the body because he was resisting.

As two officers lifted Massey off the ground, he allegedly struck one of them in the face, police said. Massey fell to the ground and took an officer with him before allegedly putting the officer in a leg lock, according to police.

Police said additional officers responded and told Massey to release the hold. According to police, Massey allegedly tried to bite officers and tightened the leg lock.

According to police, Massey only released the officer after he was struck by police. He complied once a taser was drawn, though it did not have to be deployed.

Massey declined medical attention and posted bond following his arrest.

Three officers were treated at Yale New Haven Hospital for minor injuries.

Police said they shared details of the arrest after a video of the incident was circulating on social media. According to police, the video shows a “limited view” of what happened.

The use of force by the officers involved is under review, police said.

Anyone with information has been asked to contact Detective Lt. Eula at Deula@branfordpolice.com or 203-481-4241.