TAMPA, FL -- It is one of the most watched videos in America, a jail deputy brutally attacked in the Hillsborough County Jail, and inmates racing to his rescue. Some of the most violent people in Tampa Bay stepped in to save a sheriff deputy's life.
First in to rescue the deputy was Jerry Dieguez, 48-years-old and awaiting trial for home invasion robbery. Throughout a life filled with drug abuse, Dieguez served hard time for aggravated battery, battery on a law enforcement officer, and burglary, relatives said.
Thursday morning Dieguez's teenage son watched the video for the first time and didn't know whether to laugh or cry. 19-year-old Jerry Dieguez (who has the same name as his dad) did a little of both. "I never really had a reason to be proud of him," the younger Dieguez said. "Today, I'm proud. Real proud."
Deputy Ken Moon nearly died in the attack, deputies said. Moon is at home recovering.
His assailant, Douglas Burden has charged with battery on a law enforcement officer.
