Introduction to the Incident
A Lombard man has been denied pre-trial release after allegedly battering DuPage County Sheriff’s deputies, sending three to the hospital yesterday morning, according to the State’s Attorney.
Details of the Incident
Avinash Panjwani, 27, appeared in court Saturday with five counts of aggravated battery to a police officer, one count of aggravated battery causing great bodily harm, and two counts of resisting a police officer causing injury. On Friday, Panjwani was at the DuPage County Courthouse attending a previously scheduled court date. When the court ordered him to report to probation to complete a drug test and then return, Panjwani made shadow-boxing movements at the courtroom deputy. He then left the courtroom and shoulder-checked another courtroom deputy on his way out. After returning to the courtroom, Panjwani left without permission.
Confrontation with Deputies
A DuPage County deputy found him on the second floor at the top of an escalator and told him he was not allowed to leave. As the deputy reached out to Panjwani, Panjwani allegedly punched the deputy in the face twice, knocking him backward onto the escalator. The Panjwani got on top of the deputy and forcefully pushed his thumbs into his eyes.
Further Altercations
Other deputies stepped in and removed Panjwani from the deputy and attempted to cuff him, but Panjwani attempted to bite one of the deputies and pushed him back, injuring him on the escalator. Panjwani also kneed another deputy in the face and spit twice on another officer. Panjwani was eventually taken into custody and transported to the DuPage County Jail.
Aftermath
Three officers were transported to a hospital for medical attention.
Reactions to the Incident
"The alleged battery of our deputies is not just a direct attack on the men and woman who have taken an oath to protect us, but an assault on the rule of law," DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin said. "My office has no tolerance whatsoever for this type of violence, aimed squarely at law enforcement, as alleged in this case. We all wish the injured deputies a speedy and full recovery and I thank them for their dedication to their profession and the citizens of DuPage County."
Upcoming Proceedings
Panjwani’s next court appearance is scheduled for Oct. 6.
Conclusion
The incident involving Avinash Panjwani and the DuPage County Sheriff’s deputies highlights the risks and challenges faced by law enforcement officers in the line of duty. The denial of pre-trial release for Panjwani reflects the seriousness with which the court views the alleged offenses. As the case proceeds, it will be important to consider the impact on both the accused and the victims of the alleged battery.
FAQs
- What were the charges against Avinash Panjwani?
- Avinash Panjwani was charged with five counts of aggravated battery to a police officer, one count of aggravated battery causing great bodily harm, and two counts of resisting a police officer causing injury.
- How many deputies were injured in the incident?
- Three deputies were injured and transported to a hospital for medical attention.
- What is the next step in the legal proceedings against Panjwani?
- Panjwani’s next court appearance is scheduled for Oct. 6.
- What has been the reaction of the DuPage County State’s Attorney to the incident?
- The State’s Attorney, Robert Berlin, has expressed no tolerance for violence against law enforcement and wishes the injured deputies a speedy recovery, thanking them for their dedication to their profession and the citizens of DuPage County.
