A Middlesboro man is behind bars after stabbing an innocent bystander early Friday morning during a police chase. James Fuston, 34, was arrested by officers with the Middlesboro Police Department and charged with first-degree assault, resisting arrest and second-degree fleeing or evading police (on foot).

According to the press release, at approximately 4 a.m. Friday, officer Nick Capps made contact with a male due to him acting very erratic. The male was later identified as Fuston.

While Capps was speaking with Fuston to verify who he was, Fuston fled on foot. While running from the officer, Fuston allegedly pulled two knives out and stabbed an uninvolved male that was in his path. The release states the victim received a serious wound to his neck area.

Officer Capps, Sgt. Clay Hurd and Lt. Josh Burchett continued to chase Fuston on foot and were ultimately able to take him into custody a short distance away using their tasers.

The stabbing victim was transported to Middlesboro ARH for serious, but what appears to be non-life-threatening injuries, according to the release.

Fuston was also served an outstanding bench warrant for probation violation. He remains in the Bell County Detention Center.

In other police news, 43-year-old John Washam was arrested by officers with the Middlesboro Police Department after being accused of sex-related charges.

Washam, of Middlesboro, was charged with third-degree rape and incest. According to the arrest citation, it was reported he was having a sexual relationship with a female relative that was under the age of 18. Both parties involved allegedly admitted to it when interviewed.

Washam remained in the Bell County Detention Center at press time.