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Virginia Hotel Disturbance Ends in Bodycam Chase

Strasburg police were called to a Wyndham Hotel on December 17, 2023, after reports of a woman damaging property and threatening guests. What followed ended in a foot chase — and it was all recorded.

A lobby turned upside down

Police say 40-year-old Melissa Tompkins was causing a disturbance at the hotel and was accused of damaging property at random in the lobby.

A guest who witnessed it was reportedly attacked with an object she was holding. Tompkins then ran into a room and grabbed a fire extinguisher, seemingly preparing to retaliate, according to reports.

Officer Lasso moves in

Officer George Lasso was dispatched and spotted her in the parking lot, trying to talk with her. She refused to cooperate, allegedly attacked him, then fled — so he drew his taser and gave chase over the radio.

"It's the police — you're safe, come here."

The story sparked heated debate online, and police have opened an investigation. Some details, including the exact spelling of the town in captions, remain unverified.

What do you think — did the officer show too much patience here?

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