Waynesburg man charged with disarming officer
A Waynesburg man is behind bars after allegedly disarming an officer of his Taser and running from police after giving them his brother’s name.
Matthew Gabriel Barth, 35, of West Greene Street was wanted by state parole for absconding, according to court documents.
Two responding officers, Greene County Regional Police officer William DeForte and Waynesburg Borough Police officer Adam Fichter were treated at hospitals for injuries and released. DeForte suffered a broken pinky and Fichter suffered a sprained finger, according to paperwork filed in the case.
Barth was the passenger in a vehicle which was stopped at Belko Foods at about 4:15 p.m. Saturday. He allegedly told police his name was Joshua Barth, giving officers an inaccurate date of birth and Social Security number. After Fichter told Barth he knew his name was not Joshua, Barth allegedly fled on foot while making movements toward his waistband and pockets. The officer attempted to use a Taser on Barth unsuccessfully. Fichter caught Barth and they both fell on the ground. Barth allegedly grabbed the officer’s Taser and holster before Fichter grabbed it back. Greene County Regional Police was called to assist as Barth allegedly continued to fight Fichter. After Barth was handcuffed, he allegedly fled again. He was taken back into custody when he fell, according to court documents.
An ambulance was called for Barth, who reported rib and hip injuries.
He was arraigned Sunday morning before on-call Magisterial District Judge D. Glenn Bates, who set bail at $25,000.