A Colorado Springs Police officer was assaulted by a homeless camper Tuesday morning during a cleanup effort near Cimarron Street and Interstate 25, according to police.

Officer M.J. Thomson was knocked unconscious and suffered two head lacerations that required staples after 20-year-old Jonathan Patzel pushed him over, police said in a news release.

Thomson was with fellow members of the department’s Homeless Outreach Team when Patzel was contacted. Patzel gave a false name and pushed Thomson backward onto a metal beam when officers pressed for his true identity.

Officer Brett Iverson tasered Patzel, who was arrested on suspicion of second degree assault on a peace officer, a felony.

Thomson was hospitalized but is expected to recover.

Jonathan Patzel Photo by