A Taylorville man is facing ten charges including attempted murder after Taylorville Police went to arrest him following a order of protection violation.  Roy J. Bates of Taylorville was arrested on Thursday morning following an incident in which Bates allegedly tried stabbing a Taylorville Police Officer, assaulting a separate officer, and trying to steal a weapon.  

Bates is being charged with attempted murder, a class X felony (6-30 years); attempting to disarm a peace officer, a class 2 felony (10-30 years); armed violence category 2 , a class X felony; and seven aggravated battery charges. 

According to Christian County State’s Attorney John McWard, the incident occurred when TPD Officers; Sergeant Christian Nelson, Detective Chris Adams, and Detective Jeff Wood went to the 200 block of East Poplar Street with the attempt to arrest Bates for a violation of an order of protection. After Officer Nelson let Bates know he was going to be arrested, McWard says Bates retreated into his residence and when police entered the house, he resisted.  As officers were struggling to arrest him, he grabbed a utility knife and swung at Sergeant Nelson making contact with the right side of his throat and giving him a deep cut.  Officers deployed their tasers and Detective Adams got shocked.  While this was going on, Bates cut the right index finger of Adams. 

When more officers arrived and they attempted to take Bates into custody, Officer Alan Mills was struck by a bludgeon with chains and daggers.  Mills split his head open and had to receive medical treatment.  Officer Nichols was also cut, and Chief Dwayne Wheeler was also kicked during the attack. During this time, it is alleged that Bates also tried grabbing an officer’s weapon.  

Chief Wheeler says he commends the professionalism and restraint from his officers, and thanked the Christian County Sheriff’s Office for their prompt response in providing assistance.  According to Taylorville Police Chief Wheeler, four officers went to TMH for treatment.  He says they are doing well.

Judge Brad Paisley found probable cause.  Pretrial release was denied and Bates first appearance with counsel is scheduled for January 8th at 10 AM.