A Steuben County man is accused of injuring a nurse at Ira Davenport Hospital in Bath.
Troopers were called to the hospital after Richard Freeland intentionally elbowed a nurse in the nose while she was caring for him. The nurse required medical attention for the injury. The 29-year-old Bath man was placed under arrest without further incident and transported to the State Police Barracks in Bath for processing.
While in custody, it’s alleged that Freeland became combative, attempted to tamper with evidence, and assaulted Troopers. He attempted to conceal a body camera, stole, and caused damage to State Police property, including handcuffs, leg shackles, and a patrol room wall. Freeland also spat on one of the Troopers. A further investigation revealed that Freeland falsely identified himself upon admission to the hospital.
Freeland is charged with assault and tampering with physical evidence, both felonies, along with multiple counts of criminal mischief, petit larceny, and harassment. He was also charged with single counts of resisting arrest, obstruction of governmental administration, and falsifying business records.
Freeland was transported to the Steuben County Jail for CAP arraignment.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Have all the Finger Lakes news from Finger Lakes News Radio delivered to your email every morning for FREE! Sign up by clicking here
