TAMPA, Fla. — An inmate in the Hillsborough County Jail is facing additional charges after punching a detention deputy multiple times.
- Inmate struck detention deputy at Orient Road Jail
- Deputy Robert Hoban was treated for bruising, swelling and lacerations
- Inmate Michler Gabriel now facing additional charges
According to Sheriff Chad Chronister, the altercation happened Tuesday as the deputy was attempting to exit an Oreint Road Jail pod with 38-year-old inmate Michler Gabriel.
The incident was caught on surveillance video.
As Deputy Robert Hoban and Gabriel were preparing to walk through the pod doors, Gabriel refused to back away from the door as Hoban was opening it.
When Hoban attempted to stop Gabriel from walking through the door, Gabriel punched him in the face, striking him multiple times as he fell backwards onto a wall.
Hoban was transported to Tampa General Hospital for treatment for his injuries. He suffered from bruising, swelling and lacerations.
Gabriel is now also facing felony charges of battery on a law enforcement officer and battery by a detained person. He was already facing multiple drug, weapon and driver's license charges.
"This is a prime example of the dangerous environment deputies willingly go into everyday in order to keep violent people like Michler Gabriel off of our streets," Chronister said. "I will not tolerate anyone who would have such a lack of respect for another human being, especially for someone who selflessly serves the citizens of Hillsborough County.
"While I am thankful that the deputy involved was not seriously hurt, we will make sure that Gabriel is prosecuted to the fullest extent for his actions."