Richard Gross

A Texas judge didn’t hold back her condemnation in court of a man who was accused of biting a sheriff’s deputy. After sentencing Richard Gross to 60 years in prison, Judge Deborah Oakes Evans said she was shocked by the behavior.

Gross, of Anderson County, Texas, was found guilty of assault on a public servant on July 13. The sentencing took place Friday.

“Based on the evidence that was presented during the guilt phase of the trial and the testimony of Dep. Don Myers Sr. (Friday), I believe that the court realized how truly egregious this crime was,” Anderson County District Attorney Allyson Mitchell said. “Our officers get up every morning and put their lives on the line.”

On Jan. 12, 2014, officers were called out to a residence in Elkhart, Texas to investigate a disturbance. Once there, Sheriff’s Deputy Don Myers Sr. and former Deputy Mike Mitchell encountered Gross outside, wielding a chair and appearing to be drunk.

After repeatedly telling Gross to stop, Mitchell tried to restrain him. Gross was able to “buck” Mitchell off, and Myers then fired his Taser. After paramedics examined Gross, Myers and the other officers tried to put him into a patrol car. That’s when Gross turned and bit Myers through his pants, drawing blood. Myers testified he was in great pain as a result and had to be escorted to the hospital for treatment.

Evans said she was in shock from the video she saw of the incident, which was shared during Gross’ trial. She added that Gross did not show remorse for his action.

“A lot of people don’t think about the fact they can be assaulted in various ways,” Allyson Mitchell said. “Mr. Gross bit him through his pants. Those pants are pretty thick and are made of polyester. It was a deep bite. Given all that and Gross’ criminal past, the state is pleased with the 60-year verdict. Hopefully, this will send a message to criminals who hurt public servants who are just trying to help. ‘If you fight back, then there will be assault charges.’”

Gross has a history of run-ins with law enforcement. Incidents include assault on a child in 1998, intent to murder in 1990 and a 2012 assault on a family member.

During sentencing, Gross stressed he suffered from psychotic disorder and said the incident was related. Myers testified that he was still suffering pain from injuries to his right pinky finger and a scar on his right leg from the bite.

“I think it sends a message to the criminals in Anderson County that we presently have a pretty aggressive District Attorney who is interested in seeking justice she can get for the victims who live here,” said Myers. “With that message being sent, there is a possibility it will deter some of the crime that happens here.”

Gross plans to appeal the court’s decision. He will serve the sentence in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

Sheridan writes for The Palestine (Texas) Herald