Santa Cruz Co. Jail Deputy Attacked By Inmate, Both Injured

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA — A Santa Cruz County Main Jail correctional deputy was assaulted Tuesday night by an inmate, according to the Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office. At about 8:40 p.m., a correctional officer met with Jackson Cayot, 20, of Aptos, inside a jail housing unit in response to his involvement in an argument, deputies said.

The deputy believed the disturbance was over and continued on with his regular duties, but Cayot threatened the deputy and threw a cup of water at him, according to the sheriff's office. Just moments later, Cayot swung a closed fist at the deputy in an attempt to punch him, deputies said. Cayot was taken to the ground and the deputy was able to call for help.

Sheriff's officials said Cayot and the deputy both suffered minor injuries and were treated by jail medical staff.
According to deputies, this is the second unprovoked attack on a correctional officer within the last few months. Sheriff's officials said inmate Javier Perez attacked three deputies before he was restrained in December.

All three officers suffered injuries and one is still off duty because of his injuries resulting from
that attack. The name of the deputy attacked by Cayot was not immediately released.

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By Bay City News

Photo courtesy Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office