When Lathrop Police officers stopped a driver late last month for vehicle code violations, they became concerned when a passenger in the vehicle pulled a large knife from his back pocket and placed it on the floorboard.

Little did they know that the unsettling sight would just be the beginning of the exchange.

Citing concern for officer safety, the suspect was ordered to exit the vehicle but refused to comply – beginning to move his hands out of sight of the officers. Officers worked to remove him from the vehicle.

Even  once outside the suspect reportedly remained uncooperative and struggled with the officers that were attempting to detain him – even as officers attempting to subdue the suspect felt what seemed to be a firearm in his pocket.

While the suspect was ultimately detained successfully, several officers received minor injuries as a result of the scuffle.

“Fortunately, our officers were able to take him into custody,” Lathrop Police said in a statement announcing the arrest. “A loaded Smith and Wesson revolver was located in the pocket.

“Two of our officers sustained minor injuries during the incident, but thankfully they are okay and still serving and protecting our community.”

The suspect, whose name was not released by authorities, was transported to the San Joaquin County Jail where he was booked on charges of resisting arrest, a host of weapons-related charge, and battery on a peace officer.

To contact Bulletin reporter Jason Campbell email jcampbell@mantecabulletin.com or call 209.249.3544.