Jesus Ceja

An Athens man is facing multiple charges after fighting with paramedics and a police officer trying to take him to Athens-Limestone Hospital, an official said.

Athens Police Captain Trevor Harris said paramedics were called to a home in the 25000 block of Lucas Ferry Road Wednesday because a male at the residence “seemed to be under the influence of an unknown substance.”

The man, identified as 26-year-old Jesus Ceja, had been jumping on top of a vehicle earlier in the morning and had caused significant damage, Harris said. Athens Police Lt. Steve Moore and Officer Jason Threet were sent to assist paramedics.

Harris said Ceja was on a stretcher waiting to be loaded into an ambulance when he began fighting with paramedics inside the ambulance. Harris said Moore saw Ceja choking one of the paramedics, and added Moore and Threet worked to free the medic and get Ceja under control.

“During the struggle, Ceja lunged at officers and landed on Lt. Moore’s right knee,” Harris said. “Ceja was eventually restrained and transported to the hospital for treatment. Lt. Moore required treatment for his knee.”

When Ceja was released from the hospital Wednesday evening, police charged him with two felony counts of second-degree assault, one count of third-degree domestic violence and one count of disorderly conduct.

After being booked at the Athens Police Department, Ceja was taken to the Limestone County Jail. Bond was set at $10,500.