Somerset County man arrested after allegedly spitting on officer during trespassing incident

RARITAN BOROUGH, N.J. (Somerset County) — A Raritan man was arrested and faces multiple charges after allegedly assaulting a police officer and spitting in the officer’s face during a trespassing incident on Sunday night, according to the Raritan Borough Police Department.

Daniel Gabino-Maldonado, 32, was charged with defiant trespass, obstruction, resisting arrest, aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, and throwing bodily fluids at a law enforcement officer.

Police said officers were dispatched to a business on West Somerset Street around 8:50 p.m. on June 1 for a report of trespassing. Upon arrival, officers encountered Maldonado, who had previously been barred from the property.

When officers attempted to arrest him, Maldonado allegedly refused to provide his information and then assaulted an officer and spit in the officer’s face. After a brief struggle, he was taken into custody.

The officer was evaluated at a local medical facility for a reported injury. No further details on the condition of the officer were released.

Maldonado was transported to the Somerset County Jail pending a detention hearing. Authorities have not confirmed whether he remains in custody.