Suspected Squatter Wearing Only Underwear Accused of Attempting to Drown Ohio Sheriff Deputy in Pond

An Ohio man has been arrested after he allegedly tried to drown a sheriff’s deputy in a pond during a welfare check on a home, according to authorities.

Around 5:45 p.m. on Aug. 21, deputies went to a property in Ironton after the homeowner said there were squatters that should not be there, according to the Scioto County Sheriff’s Office.

The first deputy arrived at the scene and noticed a man out near a pond. The deputy then went inside the home and found a woman and a man, later identified as 28-year-old Richard Turner, inside a bedroom, officials said.

Turner, who appeared to be under the influence, took off running, wearing just underwear, police said.

The deputy chased after Turner, who reportedly ran into a pond and yelled out, “You can’t tase me now, I’m in water.”

The deputy was able to subdue Turner, but then Turner allegedly pulled the deputy into the pond and a struggle ensued. Turner grabbed the deputy’s radio, holding it away so he couldn’t call for backup, authorities said.

Turner then allegedly put the deputy in a headlock and started dragging him underwater, causing the deputy to black out and almost drown, officials said.

The suspect fled, leaving the deputy behind in need of medical assistance, according to police.

Police launched a manhunt for Turner and officers were able to locate him around 1 a.m. the following morning after he returned to the scene to get his belongings, authorities said.

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Turner was charged with attempted aggravated murder, attempted murder, felonious assault on a peace officer, obstructing official business, and breaking and entering. He was also served with a warrant for failure to appear on a domestic violence case.

He is being held on a $230,000 bond, officials said.

No updates were given on the condition of the deputy.