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Woman accused of stabbing Tenn. paramedic with used needle

Nashville police said the patient assaulted a paramedic during transport, fled the ambulance and later struck an officer

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — A woman faces multiple charges after allegedly assaulting paramedics and police officers during an arrest in Nashville’s Hillsboro Village.

Officers responded on July 13 after receiving reports that an EMS crew was in danger, according to arrest documents obtained by WKRN.

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A paramedic told police that Jessica Woods, 33, struck and stabbed her with a used needle while being transported to a hospital. Woods then allegedly pulled the medic’s hair, tried to bite her and fled the ambulance.

Officers found Woods and said she ignored commands to remain at the scene and attempted to run away.

Police said Woods swung handcuffs at an officer during her arrest, striking the officer in the face and causing swelling and bruising. The paramedic was taken to a hospital for evaluation.

Woods was booked on two felony counts of assaulting a first responder with a deadly weapon and nine misdemeanor charges. Her bond was set at $81,500.

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Bill Carey is the associate editor for FireRescue1.com and EMS1.com. A former Maryland volunteer firefighter, sergeant, and lieutenant, Bill has written for several fire service publications and platforms. His work on firefighter behavioral health garnered a 2014 Neal Award nomination. His ongoing research and writings about line-of-duty death data is frequently cited in articles, presentations, and trainings. Have a news tip? He can be reached at news@lexipol.com.