SUMTER, S.C. (AP) - A man who authorities said was shot by a police officer after overpowering the deputy during a domestic violence call was released from the hospital and charged with assault, investigators said.
A Sumter County deputy went to the Pinewood home Saturday morning after Pharis Leon Blair threatened to kill a family member, Sumter County Sheriff’s spokesperson Adrienne Sarvis said.
Blair argued with the deputy, then started hitting the officer in the head and face, according to an arrest warrant from the State Law Enforcement Division.
Sheriff’s Senior Sr. Cpl. Nelson Rosario fired at Blair, wounding him, Sarvis said.
Rosario suffered scratches and bruises and was treated and released from the hospital Saturday, authorities said.
Blair, 37, was charged Monday with second-degree assault and battery after he was released from the hospital, a warrant said.
It wasn’t known if he had a lawyer to speak on his behalf.
Sumter County Sheriff Anthony Dennis said he thinks Rosario was justified in shooting Blair, but turned the investigation into the shooting over to state agents.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.