Bell, Sleider now charged in deputy assault case

MILWAUKEE -- Brandon Bell and Matthew Sleider were criminally charged on Tuesday, November 6th with the alleged assault of a Milwaukee County Sheriff's deputy.

Officials say the deputy was conducting a routine traffic stop around 2:21 a.m. on Friday, November 2nd at westbound I-94 near 20th St. When he approached the vehicle, he detected a strong odor of alcohol coming from the driver’s breath.

The driver, Sleider, was ordered out of his vehicle to perform a field sobriety test. While conducting that test, Bell, who was a passenger in the car, exited and assaulted the deputy from behind.

Bell repeatedly struck the deputy in the head and face causing bruising, swelling and cuts. Officials say the deputy, a 17-year veteran, was able to tase that passenger.

A second deputy arrived and attempted to take Sleider into custody for drunk driving. Sleider refused several orders and was pepper sprayed.

Police say the attacked deputy was treated for his injuries — and is okay.

Bell is charged with battery to a law enforcement officer and resisting arrest. Sleider is charged with OWI, resisting arrest and disorderly conduct.

If convicted, Bell faces up to six years in prison and $10,000 in fines. Sleider faces up to nine months in prison and $10,000 in fines.