Police: man arrested for punching officer, K-9

MELBOURNE, Fla. (AP) -- Authorities say a man was arrested for punching a Melbourne officer and his police dog during a chase.

Melbourne police say 25-year-old Nicholas Franks fled into a wooded area early Friday when an officer spotted him. Police set up a perimeter and began a search with a K-9, which located Franks.

Police say Franks punched the dog in the face and began to choke the animal. In an ensuing struggle, he also punched the officer in the face.

Police believe Franks stole two pressure washers, one he was spotted with and another that was found inside a shed at a nearby restaurant.

He faces charges of resisting an officer with violence, battery on a law enforcement officer, burglary and grand theft.

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