A 21-year-old Rhinelander man is being held on a $20,000 cash bond, charged with battering a Merrill Police Officer during the Fall Ride in Tomahawk on Friday, Sept. 13.
According to court records, Brian Johnson punched Officer Mark Heckendorf several times while Heckendorf and another Merrill Police officer were attempting to break up a fight in which Johnson was involved. The incident occurred in front of a music stage set up in downtown Tomahawk for the Fall Ride. Heckendorf and other Merrill officers were working in Tomahawk to provide additional law enforcement assistance for the event.
Officer Heckendorf suffered a broken nose in the assault.
Johnson is charged with battery to a peace officer, substantial battery, resisting an officer and disorderly conduct.