SAN JACINTO COUNTY, TX- An 18-year-old Shepherd man already being held at the San Jacinto County Jail now faces two additional felony charges after a routine cell search allegedly prompted violence leaving two correctional officers injured. According to San Jacinto County Sheriff Sam Houston’s Office, the incident occurred just after 8 a.m. Sunday, when the officers were searching Joshua Mullenix’s cell for contraband, and he allegedly became combative attacking both officers. Investigators said Mullenix struck one officer multiple times in the head and neck, leaving the officer with bruising, swelling and a mild concussion. A second officer who attempted to help restrain Mullenix was allegedly thrown to the concrete floor, suffering a sprained knee and a hip injury. Both officers sought treatment at a local hospital. One was unable to return to duty for the remainder of the workweek because of her injuries.

Mullenix was placed in a segregation cell following the incident. He’s charged with two counts of third-degree felony Assault on a Public Servant.

Mullenix is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.