Deputies Attacked by Inmate in Burke County

Two Burke County deputies were injured Tuesday morning by an inmate at the Burke County Detention Center.

Authorities say a deputy was allegedly attacked by 34-year-old Wayne Newkirt when he entered the inmate's cell to remove bed sheets from the cell gates.

"In the altercation one deputy was knocked to the ground and the inmate was able to gain control of the deputy's taser as the deputies tried to gain control of him.  After a brief fight other officers arrived and the inmate was taken under control," according to a news release from the Burke County Sheriff's Office.

One officer's injuries included lacerations that required staples, a concussion, deviated septum, nerve damage to the mouth, a black eye and swollen cheek.  Another officer was struck in the face and had swelling.

Newkirt faces additional charges in connection with the incident including Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Batter, Removal of a Weapon from a Law Enforcement Officer, Possession of a Firearm during the Commission of a Crime, and Felony Obstruction of a Law Enforcement Officer.