Long Branch, NJ – A Long Branch police officer was released from the hospital after being stabbed in the head while attempting to stop a violent domestic assault, according to the New Jersey State PBA, which said officers in Fort Lee, Englewood, and Long Branch were assaulted during separate weekend incidents.
The most serious attack involved Long Branch Police Officer Geter Benitez, who was responding to a domestic violence call when he confronted a suspect allegedly assaulting a woman.
Officer continued fighting after being stabbed
According to the PBA, Officer Benitez ran toward the attack and struggled with the suspect in an effort to protect the victim. During the confrontation, the suspect allegedly stabbed Benitez in the head.
Despite suffering a serious injury and bleeding heavily, the officer continued struggling with the suspect until additional officers and a bystander helped bring the individual under control.
Fellow officers transported Benitez to Monmouth Medical Center, where he was admitted overnight. The PBA announced Monday that he has since been released from the hospital.
PBA highlights dangers officers face
The organization also reported assaults involving officers in Fort Lee and Englewood during the same weekend but did not release additional details about those incidents.
“Our members are facing danger every day,” New Jersey State PBA President Peter Andreyev said in a statement. “This weekend’s incidents just highlight the bravery of our members that most times goes unnoticed by most media. Please keep all the officers injured this weekend in your prayers.”
The investigation remains ongoing.
