Two arrested after assault and battery on police officer

LYNCHBURG, Va. (WDBJ) - Two people have been charged in connection to an assault and battery incident on a police officer after a traffic stop in Lynchburg.

Thursday, May 22, the Lynchburg Police Department conducted a traffic stop in the 700 block of Federal Street. During the stop, 29-year-old Joseph Michael Scott of Lynchburg fled from the vehicle. An officer went after him and during the apprehension, Scott drew a handgun from his waistband.

Police say as they struggled for control of the handgun, people began approaching the officer and Scott. In an effort to protect any bystanders, the officer focused on removing the handgun from Scott. Police say after the officer secured the weapon, Scott fled the scene.

Friday morning, the Lynchburg Police Department arrested Scott in the 1100 block of Park Avenue.

Scott was charged with several crimes, including possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and assault and battery on an officer.

An 18-year-old Lynchburg woman, Mariah Randolph, was also arrested in connection with the same incident. Randolph faces a charge of obstruction of justice without force and was released on bond.

Scott remains in custody at the Blue Ridge Regional Jail without bond.