Sex Offender Accused Of Stabbing Danvers Police Officer
DANVERS (CBS) - The man accused of violently attacking a Danvers police officer claimed he was the victim as he was led into the Danvers police department Friday.
Police say officer John Melto was doing surveillance near Roy Limbaugh's mobile home on Pope's Lane early this morning when the 58-year-old convicted sex offender pulled up and attacked.
Chief Neil Oullette said, "Officer Melto confronted the suspect, a struggle ensued and Officer Melto sustained serious injuries to his neck, wrist and hands."
But the injured officer managed to get to his cruiser and radio in a description of Limbaugh's car.
Police spotted Limbaugh 90 minutes later after receiving a report of a man covered in blood heading down Route 24 south and arrested him.
WBZ-TV's Kathy Curran reports
He had multiple warrants for his arrest.
A Danvers police warning on a car at his home said his license plates on another car were seized Thursday and when Officer Melto showed up to check on his whereabouts something went terribly wrong.
Ouellette said he didn't recall an incident as serious as this in the Danvers Police Department in his 29 years.
Colleen Nicosia grew up next door to Melto, he's known as hard working cop who loves his job.
Nicosia said, "It's really scary when you think about the risks of the job, it's scary when it happens right next door, I'm just glad he's okay."
Melto underwent surgery at Salem Hospital and is expected to be okay.
In a posting on their Facebook page Friday morning, Danvers police said Officer Melto will make a "full recovery."
Limbaugh was charged with assault with intent to murder, assault and battery and assault and battery on a police officer. He's being held without bail and is due back in court next week.
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Carl Stevens reports
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Limbaugh had two outstanding warrants for motor vehicle violations. He was driving with a suspended license and has a lengthy driving record with revocations and multiple suspensions.
