A Salina man was tased and tackled by police officers after refusing to drop a Samurai sword Wednesday in a motel parking lot.

Police Sergeant Brent Rupert tells KSAL News that officers were called to the Econo Lodge at 636 Westport Blvd. around 5:30pm after a man frightened a desk clerk and began swinging the sword inside the motel lobby – striking a computer monitor and cordless phone.

Police encountered 27-year-old Ngamo Debo in the parking lot and commanded he drop the sword.

Police report that he did not drop the sword which was still in its scabbard, and kept approaching the officers.

He then picked up a trash can in an attempt to block a taser used by one officer.

Another officer tackled Debo and he was taken into custody without further incident.

Debo is now facing charges for criminal damage to property and disorderly conduct. The computer monitor and phone are valued at $350.

Police did not elaborate on what sparked the incident. The motel employee was not hurt.