MINNEAPOLIS — A Minneapolis police officer responding to a mental health emergency has been seriously injured — after a suspect allegedly bit off part of his finger.

Minneapolis police say the incident happened Tuesday night. Police say that after the attack, several officers and a Taser were needed to subdue the 54-year-old man. The man was treated for his mental condition and is in custody on possible assault charges.

The officer has not been identified.

Sgt. John Delmonico, president of the police union in Minneapolis, says the end of the officer’s finger was completely bitten off. He says the officer is right-handed, and his left hand was injured.

Delmonico says it’s another example of the dangers of policing: This officer went to help someone and was permanently disfigured.