What started as a courtesy ride Slippery Rock borough police gave to a local man resulted in an officer being punched in the face, a Taser deployment and charges filed Monday, April 8.

Joshua E. Eck, 39, was charged with two counts of felony aggravated assault, misdemeanors terroristic threats, simple assault and resisting arrest; and summaries harassment, disorderly conduct and public drunkenness.

Police said they were initially dispatched Monday when it was reported Eck was making obscene gestures and attempting to “fight” people in vehicles on a borough road. According to documents, Eck had been drinking that day.

Officers said Eck was found at the Kwik Fill gas station and was given a warning about his conduct.

An hour later, police said they responded to Slippery Rock Park after it was reported Eck was trying to pick fights with people.

Eck was given a courtesy ride to a residence on East Cooper Street in a patrol vehicle, according to documents. He was not handcuffed during the ride, police said.

While still in the patrol car, police said Eck began threatening people at the residence and attempted to force himself out of the car.

Eck was ordered to stay in the car and backup assistance was requested, documents showed. When officers from Slippery Rock University police arrived, Eck was informed he was under arrest and officers attempted to handcuff him.

Police said Eck punched an officer in the face and then wrestled him to the ground. A Taser was deployed on Eck to restrain him, documents showed.

Police said Eck continued making threats to officers, and spit on a paramedic while being transported to AHN Grove City Hospital for his injuries.

Eck was placed in Butler County Prison in lieu of $100,000 bail. His preliminary hearing before District Judge Joseph Nash is scheduled April 17.