Independence man is charged in shooting of police officer

An Independence man has been charged with second-degree assault after an Independence police officer was shot Wednesday night.

Prosecutors also have charged Brandon R. Mitchell, 23, with armed criminal action in the incident.

The officer suffered a non-life-threatening injury and was taken to a hospital, according to police.

According to court records, at 7:19 p.m. Wednesday, two Independence officers arrived at the Deluxe Inn at 10301 E. U.S. 40 on a domestic distubance call and encountered several people arguing.

Mitchell allegedly ignored several commands not to enter a particular motel room. An officer then attempted to stop Mitchell from entering the room. During an ensuing struggle, both fell onto a motel bed.

Mitchell allegedly shot the officer during this struggle. Mitchell then was taken into custody without further incident. Later a handgun was found underneath the motel bed.

The officer, shot in the foot, is expected to recover.

Prosecutors have requested a $50,000 bond.

This story was originally published February 25, 2016 at 5:23 PM with the headline "Independence man is charged in shooting of police officer."