Man attacks Rankin County officer shortly after being found guilty of sex crimes

RANKIN COUNTY, Miss. (WLBT) – A man faced a number of new charges when he tried to escape custody after his trial Wednesday.

The incident began after the trial of Franky Lovern Sr., in which he was found guilty of both sexual battery and gratification of lust.

After the trial, Lovern was escorted from the courtroom to the detention center by a deputy when Lovern attempted to overpower and disarm the deputy.

This resulted in a physical altercation between Lovern and the deputy.

Additional law enforcement personnel responded to the courthouse and Lovern was subdued.

During the altercation, the deputy suffered minor to moderate injuries, which were treated by medical personnel.

Lovern was taken to the Rankin County Detention Center, where he was also treated for his injuries by medical staff.

Lovern, who has already been convicted of the two charges, has also been charged with aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, attempted escape, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, disobeying a police officer and resisting arrest.

The new charges will be filed in Rankin County Court while he awaits sentencing for the sex crimes.

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