Pasadena Man Arrested in Assault, Officer Injured During Struggle

A 59-year-old Pasadena man was arrested Tuesday night after assaulting his girlfriend and injuring a police officer during a struggle, according to Pasadena Police Lieutenant Anthony Russo.

Russo said officers responded at 7:59 p.m. to the 1000 block of North Fair Oaks Avenue after a witness reported a man striking a woman.

The victim, identified as a 30-year-old Pasadena resident, complained of pain and sustained scratches to her right knee and a bump on her left arm.

The suspect, Donald Rogers, 59, of Pasadena, was uncooperative when officers attempted to detain him, Russo said. During the struggle, Rogers scratched an officer’s left arm with his nails, causing injury. Russo added that Rogers had allegedly used a controlled substance prior to police arrival.

The victim told investigators she and Rogers were in a dating relationship. She said that earlier in the day, she allegedly discovered Rogers had been stealing from her and told him she wanted to end the relationship, prompting an argument. Russo said Rogers slapped her during the dispute. Later, he punched her in the chest and pulled her hair, prompting a witness to call police.

Pasadena Fire Department paramedics responded, but the victim refused treatment.

The injured officer was treated at the scene.

Rogers was transported to a local hospital for minor injuries sustained during the detention and for pre-existing medical issues, Russo said.

Once medically cleared, Rogers will be booked at the Pasadena City Jail on suspicion of spousal abuse and resisting arrest according to Russo.

Anyone with information about this case is encouraged to call the Pasadena Police at (626) 744-4241 or report information anonymously by contacting “Crime Stoppers” at (800) 222-TIPS (8477) via your smartphone by downloading the “P3 Tips” Mobile App on Google Play or the Apple App Store, or by using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org