AUGUSTA, Ga. - A defense attorney for a Georgia inmate convicted in an attack on a guard said his client wanted the maximum sentence because he can't control his anger.
The Augusta Chronicle reports 24-year-old James Leon Washington pleaded guilty to charges of obstruction of an officer, aggravated battery and aggravated assault.
A Richmond County judge on Thursday gave Washington the maximum sentence, 25 years in prison without parole. At Washington's request, the judge recommended maximum security housing.
Prosecutors say Washington attacked a guard last August when she tried to give him a food tray.
Washington, who was found competent to stand trial, told the judge he was trying to kill the guard. He said he can't control his anger and he needs to be in maximum security to protect others.