INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — Less than 24 hours after Indian River County Sheriff’s Deputy Christopher Lester was injured by gunfire during a traffic stop, Deputy Luis Avila broke his hand fighting with a wanted subject.
“The men and women of the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office put their lives on the line every time they put on their uniforms and leave their homes,” said Sheriff Deryl Loar
Deputies were called to the 800 block of 10th Court in reference to a domestic violence incident on Saturday where they encountered Mark Harris, 26, of Vero Beach.
Harris had outstanding warrants for aggravated battery, false imprisonment, and tampering with a witness. While on scene, deputies developed probable cause to arrest Harris for domestic violence battery as well.
While trying to take him into custody, Harris took an aggressive posture and advanced on the responding deputies. It was during this struggle that Deputy Luis Avila broke his hand.
Harris also faces a charge of resisting arrest with violence.
Deputy Avila is on leave until he recovers from his injury.
Harris is being held at the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office in lieu of $87,000 bond.
