Deputies engage in search for tooth

A 43-year-old Gardnerville man lost a tooth in a scuffle with sheriff's deputies who were arresting him on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Paul R. Smith was jailed March 14 on $27,091 bail, charged with driving under the influence, resisting a public officer, and battery on an officer.

Deputies pulled Smith over as he was driving south on Tillman Lane at 2 p.m.

Smith, who reportedly has a history of concealed weapons violations, resisted attempts to place him in the deputy's patrol car.

Deputies called paramedics to the scene after they found a tooth and blood on the trunk of the patrol unit. Smith reportedly tried to spit blood on a deputy.

Smith was taken to Carson Valley Medical Center where a doctor attempted to place his tooth back in his mouth despite the suspect's "extremely poor condition of teeth and gums."

Smith reportedly told the doctor that his tooth had been loose and it wasn't the deputy's fault it fell out.

Reports said Smith was abusive to the medical staff and uncooperative at the jail.

After Smith was booked, the deputy found the tooth in the back seat of his cruiser. The tooth was placed in evidence, according to reports.

n A Minden man accused of striking his 83-year-old mother with a vacuum cleaner attachment was ordered Wednesday to attend six months of weekly anger management classes.

"You've got to quit drinking so you can take care of your mother," East Fork Justice Jim EnEarl told Eugene King.

He suspended a 90-day sentence in Douglas County Jail for one year and gave King credit for two days served. He ordered King to abstain from alcohol.

"The sheriff's department is tired of coming out to your house three days a week," EnEarl said.

Deputies said they were called four times within 36 hours to the Wade Street residence of King and his mother prior to his arrest.

Deputies discovered the victim had a 1-1/2-inch cut on the left side of her forehead.

The victim said she asked King to vacuum, he became angry and threw the attachment striking her in the head.