Q: In michigan, is this considered assault on an officer?
A person flees from an officer. The officer pursues the person. During the pursuit (running after them) the officer trips and falls and injures his hand. In michigan, can the person who flees from the officer now be charged with assault on an officer even though they didn't physically touch them?
A: Yes. The proper charge is "assault / resisting / obstructing" - physical contact is not required. Anytime to assault, resist, or obstruct a lawful order made in the performance of law enforcement duties, you can be criminally charged. Presumably, the chase occured contemporaneously or subsequently to the cop ordering the person to stop.
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