Man jailed after attacking officer

BERNIE, Mo. -- A Bernie man is in the Stoddard County Jail on $50,000 cash-only bond after police were summoned to his home Saturday on West David Street. A caller told police the man was brandishing a samurai-type sword and was threatening to blow up the home.

Bernie police chief Justin Allen said his office received a call around 4:30 p.m., reporting that Thomas Eggert, 41, was claiming to have the gas turned on in his home and had "bombs to blow up the house."

When Lt. Roy Boyce entered the residence, Eggert reportedly struck the officer in the head with a wooden sheath that held the sword. Boyce attempted to deploy his Taser, but missed Eggert. Boyce then reportedly grabbed Eggert's arm and removed the sword from Eggert's grip.

At that point, Eggert managed to pull a lighter from his pocket and attempted to ignite the house.

Boyce placed Eggert under arrest, and he was transported to the Bernie City Jail. He was later taken to the Stoddard County Jail in Bloomfield.

The Bernie officer sustained only minor injuries in the struggle with Eggert, and he did not require medical treatment.

Eggert was charged with assault on a law enforcement officer by means of a dangerous instrument and with armed criminal action.