Police: Indiana prison inmate attacked deputy after hearing

BUNKER HILL, Ind. (AP) - Authorities say an Indiana prison inmate slipped out of his handcuffs and began choking a sheriff's deputy in an escape attempt following a court hearing.

State Police say 26-year-old Joshua Stam of Columbus attacked a Decatur County sheriff's deputy Aug. 30 as the officer driving him back to the Miami Correctional Facility neared the prison following Stam's court appearance in Greensburg.

Stam allegedly freed himself from his handcuffs, began choking the officer and tried to grab his holstered handgun. Two prison employees ran to the officer's aid, halted the attack and prevented Stam from escaping.

The Kokomo Tribune reports Stam is serving a 2-year sentence after pleading guilty to resisting law enforcement.

He now faces charges of attempted murder, aggravated battery, attempted escape and battery on a public safety officer.

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Information from: Kokomo Tribune, http://www.ktonline.com