Lexington police officer released from hospital after reported assault; suspect arrested

A Lexington police officer who was injured in a reported assault Sunday night while responding to a call has been released from the hospital.

Police were called to an alarm at a house on Constitution Street Sunday night, and when officers arrived they found a “point of entry” that indicated a possible burglary, police Lt. Nathaniel Muller said. While officers were going through the house, they were attacked, he said.

The officers were able to get control of the suspect and place him under arrest, Muller said.

The man suspected in the incident has been identified as 28-year-old Kevin A. Blankenship, according to police and jail records. Blankenship has been charged with first-degree assault, burglary, third-degree criminal mischief and resisting arrest, Muller said.

One of the officers received a facial injury and was transported to a local hospital, Muller said. While details were not released, a weapon was reportedly used in the assault.

The officer was treated for their injuries and released from the hospital, Muller said.

The house where the incident occurred is in a residential area, but is not used as a private residence, Muller said.

Blankenship is being held in the Fayette County jail. His bond has not yet been set, according to the jail’s website.

This story was originally published February 3, 2019 at 8:03 PM.