A Los Angeles, California man appeared in Knox County Circuit Court this afternoon after he was arrested Saturday for punching two police officers amid a scuffle at the Henderson Street Dollar Tree.
Forty-six-year-old Michael Ryan faces two counts of aggravated battery to a peace officer, and a count each of resisting a peace officer and disorderly conduct.
According to a Galesburg police report, Ryan was arrested after he allegedly caused a disturbance at the store. When police arrived, he became hostile with them, shouting obscenities, and eventually struck both officers in their chests.
Ryan was taken to the ground where he continued to resist arrest. Assistant State’s Attorney Sabrina Stroops said in court today that it is likely Ryan suffers from some form of mental illness.
Judge Stephen Mathers set bond at $25,000. Ryan indicated he would like to represent himself as counsel. His next scheduled court date is set for Wednesday at 9 a.m.
