If the officer had not been wearing a helmet, we’d be talking about a murder here.
Seattle police announced the arrest of Jacob Greenberg, 19, for setting fires in the city as well as using a metal baseball bat to hit an officer over the head on September 23rd.
A search warrant was served at his parents home and police found a bat that matched the one used in the attack.
Police also search his phone and found some disturbing text messages, including one message to a friend where he said that he wanted to "slit every SPD throat."
Seattle talk show host Jason Rantz writes,
"Later that night, Greenberg allegedly shared a KOMO news article that shows his assault against the officer. His friend joked about calling 911 on him. He then texted McMillan a link of a video of the officer being assaulted.
“I AM SO PISSED AT THE COPS!!! I <EXPLETIVE> WENT OFF ON THEM TONIGHT!,” he texted. He opined, “I’m proud too hehe. Wish he didn’t have a helmet on lol,” and McMillan replied, “Well still a great shot though.” Greenberg agreed.
Greenberg and McMillan discussed destroying evidence of their crime, according to detectives. The texts indicate the two used the texting apps Signal and Telegraph, which allow untraceable chats.
Other “notable quotes” highlighted from the Greenberg texts including, “And can we like pls slit every spd throat,” and “I want the whole damn system to just burn the <expiative> down!!! Btw I really like fire.”"
Greenberg is the stepson of former Democrat representative Laura Ruderman of Kirkland.
Jason Rantz reported that Ruderman used her position as a state lawmaker to convince a judge to lower the bail on the previous charge and release him to her custody.
Seattle Interim Police Chief Adrian Diaz says the police officer who was struck with the bat was grateful for the protective gear he had on and that officer has returned to active duty.