Inmate assaults Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office deputy on Christmas Day

A Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office deputy was severely beaten by an inmate at the Pueblo County Detention Facility on Christmas Day.

The deputy was attacked while serving dinner to inmate James Twiford. According to the Sheriff’s Office, the deputy was opening the cell door to drop off food when Twiford charged and began attacking the deputy with his own radio and tracking tool.

The deputy was hit in the face and on the head several times. Another deputy was also injured while trying to help contain Twiford.

Both deputies were taken to the hospital and have since been released.

The Sheriff’s Office said normally deputies would provide food through slots in the cell doors, but this particular door had malfunctioned, causing the deputy to enter the cell.

Twiford was being held on robbery and controlled substance charges. After Monday’s incident, he is now facing an additional two charges of 2nd-degree assault on a peace officer.

Sheriff Kirk M. Taylor credited the deputies for their response but says overcrowding contributed to the incident.

“It can’t be stated enough, current detention conditions pose additional safety risks. But right now my primary focus is to ensure this deputy, his partners, and all the men and women who work here know, we stand beside them in their worry and concern for their partner and we thank him and each of them for the work they do every day.”