Meck County detention officer cut with ‘homemade weapon’, bitten by inmate

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A Mecklenburg County detention officer was hurt after an altercation with an inmate Friday night, the sheriff’s office said.

It happened just before 9 p.m. at the Mecklenburg County Detention Center -- Central.

Authorities said Detention Officer A. Turnage was cut with a “homemade weapon” and bitten by an inmate during a medication pass. The inmate was identified as 42-year-old James Holmes.

Turnage was taken to the hospital with minor injuries and has since been released to recover at home.

Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden said he has been in constant contact with the detention officer.

“I have been in constant contact with Officer Turnage and she is in good spirits,” McFadden said. “I was at the hospital when she was released. As Sheriff, the safety of our detention professionals and residents is always a concern.

McFadden said the sheriff’s office will investigate the incident to determine whether any criminal charges will be filed.

This is an ongoing investigation. Check back with wsoctv.com for updates.

(Watch Below: Detention officer accused of smuggling drugs into North Carolina jail)

Detention officer accused of smuggling drugs into North Carolina jail (NCD)

©2021 Cox Media Group