A man accused of attacking an off-duty San Francisco police officer early Sunday morning, prompting her to fire a gun at him, pleaded not guilty today to five felony and misdemeanor charges.
Joel Henriquez, 37, pleaded not guilty to felony assault on a police officer, assault, making criminal threats, resisting arrest and misdemeanor reckless driving for an incident that began at about 12:10 a.m. Sunday.
According to police, the officer and Henriquez were involved in a minor collision on Interstate Highway 280, and pulled off the highway and stopped near Bayshore Boulevard and Jerrold Avenue.
During the interaction that ensued, Henriquez allegedly punched the officer and she fired her service weapon, causing a graze wound to Henriquez, police said.
Henriquez has since posted $115,000 bail, and appeared in court today with family members. He left after the hearing and declined to speak to reporters.
Deputy Public Defender Phong Wang said Henriquez is the sole breadwinner for his family and has lost his job as a result of the case.
San Francisco Superior Court Judge Rochelle East ordered Henriquez to stay away from the officer and to return to court on Feb. 19 to set a date for a preliminary hearing in the case.
Police spokesman Officer Albie Esparza said the officer has been placed on paid administrative leave during the investigation into the shooting, as is standard department procedure.
Dan McMenamin, Bay City News
