A New York State Trooper is expected to fully recover after being stabbed in the neck in the Empire State Plaza in Albany.

Officials say Trooper Rodney L. Smith was approached by an individual who indicated he was new to the area. As the officer checked his identification, police say the man stabbed the trooper in the neck with a steak knife.

The trooper managed to fend off the assailant, but suffered additional wounds to his neck, face, arms and hands.

The 15-year veteran was rushed to Albany Medical Center where he underwent surgery.

(AP)