John Dodson

By Zak Failla From Daily Voice

It’s been a rough stretch for Spotsylvania deputies — three days, three assaults.

The latest came over the weekend, when deputies were called to a investigate a reported disturbance in the 9600 block of Old Elys Ford Road and ended up taking spit to the face, according to the sheriff's office.

Deputies say they found 39-year-old Stafford resident John Dodson lying between a bush and a log, “obviously intoxicated.” He was initially cooperative, but quickly turned combative and had to be physically carried to the patrol car.

Things escalated further at the magistrate’s office, where investigators said Dodson spit on one deputy twice before spitting directly in another deputy’s face.

Dodson was charged with being drunk in public and assault on law enforcement. He was remanded to the Rappahannock Regional Jail.

Sheriff’s officials noted this was the third time in as many days that deputies were assaulted while doing their jobs.

“As we hold our deputies to a high standard of treating all citizens with dignity and respect, we ask that the public extend that same respect to the men and women who serve this community,” the agency said.

The Sheriff’s Office commended its deputies for their professionalism and “continued dedication to protecting the citizens and visitors of Spotsylvania County.”