North Jersey High Schooler Punched Cop, Ran Away, Police Say

PASSAIC COUNTY, NJ — A Passaic County high school student faces charges after punching a police officer, authorities said.

On Tuesday, around 2:30 p.m., an argument broke out outside the gates of John F. Kennedy High School in Paterson, police said.

Paterson police officers assigned to an off-duty assignment responded to reports of the fight and attempted to de-escalate it, according to officials.

While intervening, one police officer was punched by a female student's closed fist, authorities said.

The female student took off on foot and then hopped into a car and left the scene. She was found by the police moments later and arrested.

The student is charged with simple assault, assault on a police officer, terroristic threats, and disorderly conduct.

Another male student was charged with disorderly conduct for interfering with police operations.