A Fairfield police officer has returned to work following an assault that occurred when apprehending shoplifters on New Year's Day.

The officer was attacked when responding to two men using bolt cutters to steal locked power tools from the Kings Highway Cutoff Home Depot.

Upon attempting to arrest Daniel McKenna and Jose Natal, McKenna is accused of pushing the officer and was arrested following a brief altercation.

Natal fled the scene on foot but was later arrested.

Both men are now facing charges.