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A routine inmate transfer in downtown Brookdale took a dramatic turn on Monday afternoon when a female police officer was attacked during an attempted restraint, resulting in her uniform being ripped apart in front of dozens of witnesses.
According to Brookdale Police, Officer Danielle Ruiz, 29, was assigned to transport an inmate, later identified as Marcus Hall, 32, following a court appearance. Hall, who has a prior record of violent offenses, reportedly became combative as Ruiz attempted to re-secure his handcuffs outside the transport van.
Witnesses say Hall shoved the officer and attempted to flee, sparking a violent struggle on the sidewalk near 5th Street and Main Avenue. During the altercation, Hall grabbed at Officer Ruiz’s shirt, tearing it open and leaving her partially exposed in her department-issued bra.
Despite the wardrobe failure, Ruiz continued to restrain the suspect. “She never let go of him,” said Anthony Miller, a bystander who recorded part of the incident. “Even when her shirt was ripped, she stayed focused on getting him under control. It was shocking to see, but also impressive.”
Backup units arrived within minutes, helping Ruiz bring Hall to the ground and secure him in cuffs. Hall was returned to custody and now faces additional charges of assaulting an officer, resisting arrest, and attempted escape.
Brookdale Police Chief Laura Hernandez commended Officer Ruiz’s composure under pressure. “What happened to Officer Ruiz highlights both the unpredictability and the risks our officers face every day,” Hernandez said. “Her professionalism in the face of humiliation and physical danger speaks volumes about her dedication to public safety.”
Due to department restrictions and privacy considerations, media outlets have been authorized to release only a single image from the incident, which can be found below. Officials stressed that this limitation is in place to protect both the officer’s dignity and the integrity of the ongoing investigation.
Officer Ruiz was treated at Brookdale General Hospital for minor bruises and released later the same evening.
