A Gainesville man is behind bars after being accused of biting a police officer’s nose — causing serious injury and disfigurement — during an arrest Monday.

Kenton Thompson, 31, faces several charges after the incident, which began as a drug-related arrest, Gainesville police said.

Officers who were working a drug investigation encountered Thompson at the Home Town Suites off Jesse Jewell Parkway about 10:30 p.m., Sgt. Kevin Holbrook told AJC.com. He was accused of possessing methamphetamine and synthetic marijuana.

When officers tried to take him into custody, Thompson ran away, prompting a brief chase, Holbrook said. When police caught up to him, a struggle ensued.

During the incident, "Thompson bit the end of the officer's nose, which resulted in serious injury and disfigurement to his face," the department said in a Facebook post. The post included a graphic photo of the injured officer's face.

The injured officer was taken to Northeast Georgia Medical Center, Holbrook said.

Thompson was charged with aggravated battery, felony obstruction and two drug-related offenses. He remains in the Hall County jail without bond.

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The city of Brookhaven's mayor and City Council last week decided to remove the colored panes of glass from the dome of Brookhaven's new City Centre after residents objected to the brightness of the colors, seen here Friday, June 27, 2025. (Reed Williams/AJC)

Credit: Reed Williams/AJC