Suspect bit off part of Chelsea police officer’s ear during domestic incident, department says

"This is a stark reminder of the dangers our officers face every day," Chelsea Police Chief Keith E. Houghton said.

A Chelsea police officer had part of his ear bitten off while responding to a “highly volatile” domestic incident, the Chelsea Police Department said in a statement on Friday.

The officer is in stable condition, but will “require further medical attention,” the department said.

Officers went to 207 Shurtleff Street on Friday afternoon after reports of a domestic disturbance, the statement said. One officer was allegedly attacked while engaging in the incident, which resulted in the suspect biting part of his ear off, according to the department.

Police said the suspect is Carlos Daniel Sanabria, who is currently in custody and awaiting charges. The identity of the injured officer was not made public. Chelsea Police Chief Keith E. Houghton said this incident serves as a “stark reminder” of the dangers of being a police officer.

“We are grateful that the injuries, while serious, were not life-threatening,” he said in the statement. “Our thoughts are with the officer and his family as he recovers.”