By Staff Reports

A female corrections officer at the Morgan County Jail was attacked this past week by an inmate and treated for her injuries at Decatur-Morgan Hospital.

MCSO spokesman Mike Swafford said a male inmate attacked Officer Kathy Evans about 4:30 p.m. while she was assisting with the distribution of evening meals.

“During this time, federal inmate Lemond Lawerance Burns, 22, of Alpine, requested a smoke break. Officer Evans informed Burns that they would get to smoke breaks once meal time was over,” Swafford said. “Burns then walked up on Evans, who issued commands for him to back away. At that time, the inmate quickly punched Evans twice, knocking her to the ground.

“Other officers quickly responded and called for the medical team. Evans was transported to Decatur Morgan Hospital by ambulance.”

Swafford said Evans sustained multiple injuries, including a concussion and contusions around her mouth and eye, which was swollen closed. She also received additional bruising to her back, head and arms from hitting the ground.

Investigator Caleb Brooks with the Special Victims Unit obtained warrants for Burns and charged him with assault in the second degree, with a $50,000 bond.

Burns will face these charges once previous state and federal sentences are served.

According to the MCSO, Burns had been in the Morgan County Jail on federal charges since Feb. 8. He was rehoused in an isolation pod.

Burns was under federal indictment for an alleged scam involving scanning counterfeit and pre-paid gift cards. He also faces capital murder charges in Madison County for the alleged killing of Dallis Patrick Ryan Wolfe, an Alabama A&M student, in January.

“Our correction officers are unsung members of our team. They serve in a $13 an hour position, spending more time in jail then many of our inmates,” Sheriff Ron

Puckett said. “This was a cold, unwarranted attack with no remorse. We hurt with Officer Evans, who is a model officer, is active in her community and has a heart for serving.

“This event is a reminder of their true value to our community.”