Vandalia man charged with assault after getting into physical altercation with officer

On Tuesday, a Vandalia police officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Lindell Street for reports of smoke coming from the backside of a residence.

According to the probable cause statement, a subject was burning trash and creating a noxious odor for the business owner next door and their customers.

Upon arriving, the officer made contact with a woman and told her she needed to put the fire out and if he had to come back for a similar call he would have to write a municipal peace disturbance citation.

A few hours later, the officer arrived back at the residence intending to write a ticket.

The officer noticed a male subject, Donald Campbell, walking toward him looking agitated. When the officer asked for Campbell’s name, Campbell cursed at him.

The officer asked again and Campbell once again started cursing. The officer warned that he was going to take Campbell into custody if he would not identify himself.

Campbell did not listen to the officer’s order, so the officer put his hand on Campbell’s shoulder. Campbell immediately pulled away and in the process struck the officer in the face.

A struggle ensued while Campbell attempted to get away.

During the struggle, Campbell’s wife, brother and another male started running toward them screaming and yelling obscenities.

The officer was able to gain control of the situation and called for help of additional officers.

Campbell was arrested and is charged with resisting arrest and assault on a law enforcement officer.