Inmate Stabs Deputy

Sonora, CA — An inmate at the Tuolumne County Jail faces new charges after using a weapon to stab a Sheriff’s Deputy.

30-Year-old Juan Valdez was being escorted from the shower area, back to his cell, when he allegedly took out a weapon and slashed it across the unidentified deputy’s face. The Sheriff’s Office believes the weapon had been constructed in the jail, by an inmate, and officials note that it included a razor blade. A small fight followed, and Valdez was tased and taken into custody.

Sgt. Scott Johnson says Valdez was in custody on robbery and kidnapping charges, stemming from an incident last October in Jamestown. He had pleaded guilty and was awaiting sentencing to state prison. He was also on parole out of San Joaquin County, through the AB-109 program, for an earlier Felony Conviction

It is not immediately known why Valdez attacked the deputy. The Sheriff’s Office notes that it did not appear to be any type of an escape attempt. An investigation is ongoing. It happened at 9:10pm on Wednesday.