Deputy Jailer seriously injured in McCracken County Jail assault
FOX23 News at 9 p.m.
PADUCAH, Ky., (KBSI) — A deputy jailer suffered serious facial injuries during an inmate assault Wednesday night at the McCracken County Jail, officials said.
The incident occurred about 9:30 p.m. Jan. 15 while deputies were performing routine duties. Jail officials said inmate Austin Sporea forced his way out of his cell while a deputy was providing bedding and assaulted the deputy. When another deputy attempted to intervene, she was struck in the face, causing significant facial trauma.
Additional staff members responded, restrained the inmate and safely returned him to his cell.
The injured deputy was taken to a local hospital and later transferred to an out-of-state medical facility for further treatment, officials said.
The incident has been referred to the McCracken County Sheriff’s Department for investigation.
As a result of the incident, Sporea was charged with second-degree assault, a Class C felony; two counts of third-degree assault, Class D felonies; and first-degree escape, a Class C felony.
Jailer Stephen Carter said the safety of staff and inmates remains a top priority and that the facility will fully cooperate with the ongoing investigation.
