A 44-year-old Duncan man is facing two felony counts of assault and battery on a detention officer after an altercation at the Stephens County jail on the morning of September 24, according to court records. Jason Kyle Cesar allegedly stuffed his jail-issued clothing into the toilet before officers entered his cell, then threw multiple punches when his wrist restraints were removed, striking one officer in the face. During the takedown, the officer fell back and struck his head on the cell wall, later being diagnosed with a concussion at Urgent Med. Security video reportedly corroborated the officers’statements.
Cesar made his initial appearance Thursday in Stephens County District Court. He was already in custody on a Sept. 23 warrant for misdemeanor domestic abuse, resisting police, and disturbing the police, and he has a prior felony conviction for unlawful possession of a Schedule I or II controlled drug with intent to distribute. Because of that prior conviction, each of the new felony counts carries a possible sentence of two years to life in prison. He is currently held on an additional $10,000 bond.
The case is set to continue at 9 a.m. on January 6, 2027, when Cesar is scheduled for a preliminary hearing conference. Incidents like this one highlight the risks detention staff face during routine rounds and the serious consequences for repeat offenders who assault them. How do you think local jails can better protect the people who work inside them?
About the Author
Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.