Newberry, South Carolina – A man from Greenwood, South Carolina, has been sentenced to prison for a violent attack on a detention officer, as reported by the 8th Circuit Solicitor’s Office. Tavon Dorsett Morton, aged 36, was held at the Greenwood County Detention Center after his bond was revoked in January 2023 on various charges, including attempted murder stemming from a shooting incident in May 2020.
On August 12, 2023, a detention officer instructed Morton to return to his cell, but he disobeyed. An altercation ensued between Morton and the officer, resulting in Morton striking the officer in the head multiple times, eventually slamming him head-first onto the tile floor without any provocation, according to officials. The officer lost consciousness immediately, experiencing severe bleeding from his head wound and suffering seizures while awaiting emergency medical services. Medical records indicated that the officer was at risk of severe injury or death.
Following a guilty plea, Morton was sentenced to a maximum of 20 years in prison for the assault on the detention officer. Solicitor Stumbo commented after the sentencing that the video recording of the incident clearly showed Morton’s disregard for others, emphasizing the need to hold individuals accountable for violence against those working to maintain community safety.
The sentencing of Morton serves as a reminder of the consequences of violent actions, especially towards public servants dedicated to protecting their communities. The severity of the attack underscores the importance of ensuring the safety and wellbeing of those serving in law enforcement roles. Such incidents highlight the ongoing challenges faced by detention officers and the need for proper measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future. It is crucial to address and condemn acts of violence that endanger the lives of those in the line of duty.