DEVON, Alta. -- An Edmonton man faces half a dozen charges after a routine RCMP patrol ended in a foot chase, a fight and a bite.

Two members of the Devon detachment southwest of the city were patrolling the quiet community's streets Tuesday night when they spotted a vehicle by a gas station that had been reported stolen from Rocky Mountain House.

The officers tried to arrest a man who was driving the vehicle, but he slipped free.

"The male fled. After a short foot pursuit, he was apprehended by members a short distance away and a lengthy struggle ensued," said Cpl. Hal Turnbull.

"The officers were trying to gain control of the suspect and during the struggle the accused bit one of the officers."

The man was eventually constrained, arrested and taken to the detachment. He remains in custody.

The Mountie, said Turnbull, was treated for the bite.

"Having been bitten myself in the past while making arrests, I would assume that it was more than just a passing nip."

Victor Snell, 33, has been charged with obstruction, resisting arrest, assaulting a police officer, possession of marijuana, possession of a weapon and possession of stolen property.

He is to appear in Leduc provincial court Jan. 7.