Terra Bella man accused of biting deputy

A 26-year-old Terra Bella man and wanted parolee is in jail after he allegedly assaulted a deputy by attempting to choke him, bite him and take his service weapon.

The man, identified as Jose Barajas, was arrested on multiple charges and booked at the Tulare County Main Jail.

The incident happened at 1:30 p.m. Thursday in the 1000 block of South Maple Street in Pixley. The Tulare County Sheriff’s Department reports that deputies contacted Barajas during a traffic stop.

During a weapons pat-down, Barajas tried to flee on foot, the sheriff’s department reports.

The deputy who conducted the arrest tried to stop Barajas, but he was able to jump behind the deputy and began to choke him, the sheriff’s department reports. After the deputy got Barajas off his back, Barajas reportedly tried to get the deputy’s gun.

During the struggle, Barajas bit the deputy, breaking open the skin on the deputy’s left hand.

The fight continued until assisting deputies arrived and were able to restrain Barajas.

Barajas was found to be a wanted parolee and was also in possession of cocaine, the sheriff’s department reports.

Barajas and the deputy received medical treatment.