Man Arrested After Alleged Assault on Deputies, Meth Found During Attempted Bank Break-In in Chester

Wesley Harris, 28, of Corrigan, was arrested following an incident in Chester involving an alleged attempted bank break-in, assault on deputies, and possession of methamphetamine. Photo Courtesy of Tyler County Sheriff's Office

CHESTER, Texas — A Corrigan man was arrested Saturday afternoon following an incident in Chester that began with a reported threat to break into a bank and escalated into an alleged assault on law enforcement officers.

According to the Tyler County Sheriff's Office, deputies were dispatched around 4:15 p.m. on January 3 to the BOM Bank in Chester after receiving a report of a suspicious male. Authorities said the individual had reportedly told employees at the nearby Chester Exxon that he intended to break into the bank across the street.

While deputies were en route, they were provided a description of the suspect and informed that he was actively attempting to gain entry into the bank.

Upon arrival, deputies made contact with the suspect and attempted to detain him in handcuffs for public safety. Officials stated the suspect immediately began pulling away and actively resisting arrest. During the struggle, the suspect allegedly struck one deputy in the face, causing visible injuries, and kicked another deputy in the knee.

Additional deputies responded to the scene, and the suspect was eventually secured. A search reportedly revealed a small clear baggie containing approximately 2.5 grams of methamphetamine.

The suspect was identified as Wesley Harris, 28, of Corrigan. Harris was transported to the Tyler County Jail and charged with two counts of Felony Assault on a Peace Officer, Felony Possession of a Controlled Substance, Resisting Arrest, and Terroristic Threat.

Justice of the Peace Tina Self set Harris’ bonds at a combined total of $145,000.

As with all cases, Harris is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.