Former Minn. Officer Testifies About Attack

A former St. Paul (Minn.) Police officer testified that she suffered severe injuries from an attack by a bipolar man three years ago that ended her law enforcement career.

A former St. Paul (Minn.) Police officer testified that she suffered severe injuries from an attack by a bipolar man three years ago that ended her law enforcement career.

Felicia Dee Reilly, 56, responded to a 911 hang-up call on March 24, 2010 at a home in the 1600 block of Birmingham Street. With a backup unit on its way, Reilly decided to go inside the home, where she encountered Thomas Jerard Swenson, 35.

When Swenson squared off the officer, Reilly attempted to handcuff him. Swenson then grazed her face with a closed fist. Reilly TASERed Swenson, who pulled out the probes and charged her. He kicked and punched the officer several times in the head.

Swenson's attorney argued that his client didn't attack the officer. Instead, he said she tripped and fell, reports the St. Paul Pioneer Press.

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