A correctional officer at the Merced County Jail was injured by an inmate headed to court on a misdemeanor charge.

The female deputy sustained injuries to her wrist, shoulder and face, said Merced County Sheriff spokesman Deputy Tom MacKenzie.

The deputy was in the process of handcuffing 35-year-old inmate, Abel Ambrocio of Palo Alto, for court when he punched her in the face.

MacKenzie said the attack was “without provocation or warning.”

A second correctional officer came to her aid and used his Taser on Ambrocio. The deputies were able to get the suspect shackled, MacKenzie said.

The second deputy suffered a slight injury to his hand during the altercation, MacKenzie said.

Ambrocio had been held at the Merced County Jail for about a month on an immigration hold. He was originally taken into custody for suspicion of driving under the influence.

Ambrocio was in a cell by himself when the incident occurred.

Ambrocio faces new felony charges of battery on a correctional officer.

To contact Sabra Stafford, e-mail sstafford@turlockjournal.com or call 634-9141 ext. 2002.