Samuel Shirk, a twenty-year old Broward man, fought with Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) personnel while being questioned about sexual battery on a minor. According to a high level source, Shirk was in custody when being interviewed by a BSO detective. During the interview, Shirk asked to use the restroom and was escorted by a BSO deputy.

When Shirk exited the bathroom, he charged the deputy and attempted to take her weapon. A violent struggle ensued. The detective joined the struggle with the suspect. The detective helped hold the suspect down.

The deputy was severely beaten before help arrived. The source said Shirk had a “firm grip” on her weapon.

Other law enforcement officers tried to assist the deputy and detective however they could not access the room.

According to the source, an officer from another floor was summoned to gain access to the room.

Shirk was charged with multiple felonies.

The charges include lewd and lascivious molestation of a victim under 12 years old, sexual assault of a victim under 12 years old and video voyeurism of a victim under 19 years old.

Charges stemming from the escape attempt include two charges of battery on an officer, use of a firearm during a felony, obstruct/deprive means of communication and two charges of attempted escape.

Shirk is being held at the main jail in downtown Fort Lauderdale.