FRANKLIN
The Franklin Police Department stated that one officer was struck by a suspect while responding to a call over the weekend. The officer sustained minor injuries and the suspect, William Towns Jr., was taken into custody.

On Sunday at approximately 10 a.m., the Franklin Police Department received a call in reference to a suspicious black male going in out and of the bathroom at the 1500 block of Armory Drive.

Two Franklin police officers responded, and upon arrival they noticed a black male matching the description walking toward Walmart. Once Towns noticed the officers, he changed directions and headed away from the store going toward the 1400 block of Armory Drive.

One officer went inside the business that had made the phone call to the department, while the other continued to keep an eye on Towns.

After the one officer spoke with store personnel, he checked the bathroom and discovered in the trashcan several items that Towns allegedly attempted to shoplift. This officer then relayed that information to the other.

That officer then approached Towns attempted to speak with him, which is when he struck the officer and a struggle ensued.

Towns was then taken into custody and charged with assault and battery against law enforcement, 3rd offense petit larceny, resisting arrest and obstruction of justice. Towns was transported to Western Tidewater Regional Jail, where he is being held without bond.