Police say man who died in custody was out of control

from KXL.com

Police say man who died in custody was out of control
When police tried to arrest 42-year old James Chasse, he wasn't following orders.

For the first time, Portland police are explaining what led up to the arrest of a man who later died in custody.

When police tried to arrest 42-year old James Chasse, he wasn't following orders. "He was acting the way that they weren't sure if it was a mental issue or if it was intoxicants acting out on him."

Commander Cliff Madison said Chasse bit one officer and tried to go after a second; that's when they used a Taser.

Several complaints have been filed against the officers for excessive force, but Madison defends his officers. "We're dealing with someone who could be very strong, be irrational and maybe not feel pain as far as pain compliance with the Taser even."

Chasse died later, while being transported to the hospital.