Laurel deputies searching for man who assaulted deputy, second man who fled the scene

Laurel County Sheriff’s deputies are seeking the public’s help to locate two men, one of which allegedly assaulted an officer early Saturday morning.

According to Sheriff John Root, the suspects have been identified as Tony T. Burks, 35, of London and James W. Edwards, 36, of London.

Deputy Gilbert Acciardo, the department’s public affairs officer, said the incident occurred about 3 a.m. when Deputy Shawn Jackson stopped to investigate two vehicles parked suspiciously behind a building near a business on West Cumberland Gap Pkwy. in north Corbin.

Acciardo said Jackson spoke with the occupants of one vehicle, later identified as Burks and a female passenger, Alisha Tapia-Cozar.

During the investigation, Deputy Jackson observed Burks in possession of a glass pipe, at which point Burks was told he was under arrest,” Acciardo stated, adding that as Jackson attempted to place Burks in handcuffs, Burks began fighting, striking Jackson in the side of the face.

Jackson’s glasses were destroyed and he suffered unspecified injuries. However, when Burks attempted to flee the scene, Jackson was able to give chase.

Burks was able to escape and Acciardo said Edwards ran off in another direction.

Acciardo said numerous officers responded to Jackson’s call for assistance.

Jackson said he was able to finish his shift and has continued to work as scheduled.

Tapia-Cozar, 31, of Laurel County, was taken into custody on charges of public intoxication, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, second-degree disorderly conduct and second-degree fleeing or evading police.

Anyone with information about either Burks or Edwards is asked to contact Laurel County Sheriff’s Department at 606-864-6600 or Laurel County dispatch at 606-878-7000.

Callers may remain anonymous.