A man accused of attacking EMS workers on New Year’s Eve

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – A 47-year-old man has pleaded not guilty in the attack on two emergency medical services workers on New Year’s Eve.

Arsenio Vargas was charged with two counts of second-degree assault.

According to the city attorney’s office, first responders were assisting Vargas when he became agitated, kicked and punched the paramedic.

“Our first responders have the difficult task of protecting and caring for people in our community who have been harmed or are ill,” said U.S. Attorney Steve Alm. “We must take care of those entrusted with caring for our community.”

Vargas is being held at the Oahu Correctional Center in lieu of $11,000 bail.

Assaulting an emergency medical service provider while performing their duties is a Class C felony and is punishable by up to five years in prison.