Overview
- Officer Kevin Mangan was violently attacked while writing a ticket after two people blocked a squad car and an ambulance on Tuesday night, suffering severe facial trauma and losing multiple teeth.
- Prosecutors charged Michael Sopher with aggravated battery of a peace officer, unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon, and violating the sex‑offender registry, and they charged Monica Mejia with two counts of aggravated battery of a peace officer and criminal damage to property.
- Authorities say Sopher used brass knuckles in the assault, and officials say Mangan will need reconstructive oral surgery and will be unable to eat solid food or return to full duty for months.
- Court records and prosecutors show both defendants have prior records that include violence toward police, with Sopher listed as a registered sex offender and Mejia previously convicted of aggravated battery against an officer.
- Both defendants were ordered held pending further proceedings as prosecutors continue their investigation and as local officials and the officer's family press for accountability and attention to officer safety.