Incident of Inmate Assault Leads to Charges Against Jail Deputies

Nov. 14, 2023: Attention All || In recent developments, two deputies at a Tennessee jail have been indicted for misconduct and assault charges after allegedly attacking an inmate in Memphis. The incident, which occurred in May, left the inmate, Damian Florez-Ramirez, injured but alive. The accused deputies, Odell Underwood and Reginald Wilkins from the Shelby County Sheriff's Office, have already been relieved of duty without pay but are yet to be terminated. During a press conference, county district attorney Steve Mulroy revealed that the assault took place when Florez-Ramirez, who was handcuffed, was en route to receive medical attention within the jail premises. Mulroy added that the inmate had previously attacked a deputy jailer and had been subjected to a chemical agent. While Florez-Ramirez sustained non-life-threatening injuries, the specific details of the assault and his injuries were not disclosed. Sheriff Floyd Bonner expressed concern over the deputies' actions, labeling their conduct as "troubling." In addition to the criminal charges, both deputies will face internal departmental charges. It is unclear at this time whether Underwood and Wilkins have retained legal representation. Notably, this incident follows a similar case in October 2022, where nine deputies were charged in the fatal beating of Gershun Freeman, who was suffering from a psychotic episode at the same jail. Two deputies faced second-degree murder charges while seven others faced charges of aggravated assault resulting in death. As the investigation continues, we urge everyone to remain vigilant and foster a safe environment within our community.