Mankato Man Charged After Spitting on Officer, Attempting Headbutt During Mental Health Hold

A Mankato man is facing felony and gross misdemeanor charges after allegedly spitting on and attempting to headbutt a police officer during a mental health-related incident. According to a criminal complaint filed in Blue Earth County District Court, 37-year-old Travis James Theroux has been charged with fourth-degree assault of a peace officer involving bodily fluids and attempted assault on a peace officer.

On June 27, 2025, authorities responded to a report that Theroux had made suicidal threats and was traveling by bus to Mankato. Officers coordinated with the bus company to locate and intercept Theroux upon his arrival. When officers informed him that he would be placed on a 72-hour mental health hold and needed to go to the hospital, Theroux reportedly became agitated, resisted arrest, and reached for something in his pocket. Officers were forced to restrain and handcuff him.

As they escorted Theroux to a squad car, he allegedly cursed at an officer and spit in their face, then attempted to headbutt another. Officers ultimately had to carry him to the squad car and transport him to the hospital for evaluation. After being treated and calmed with medication, Theroux was medically cleared and taken to jail. If convicted, he faces up to three years in prison and a $6,000 fine on the felony count.