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Police Say Knife-wielding Man Taunted Toms River Homeowner

TOMS RIVER, N.J. (AP) — A southern New Jersey man who allegedly brandished a knife at a police officer is now facing criminal charges.

Toms River police say 19-year-old township resident William Rodriguez went to a home early Monday and tore the front screen door off its frame before fleeing.

The homeowner called police, and Rodriguez returned to the scene while an officer was still in the area. Not noticing that the officer was present, Rodriguez allegedly waved his arms and taunted the homeowner.

The officer saw Rodriguez had a knife in one hand and a sheath in the other. When Rodriguez turned and saw the officer approaching, he allegedly tried to hide the knife and wouldn't drop it.

Rodriguez then allegedly began walking toward the officer with the knife, but soon dropped it.

(© Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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