GBI investigating Hall County deputy after altercation

GBI agents are investigating whether a Hall County deputy punched a handcuffed inmate who had injured two jailers.

The sheriff’s office fired Sgt. Kenny Lane, a 25-year veteran, shortly after the June 14 incident, which was observed by a lieutenant who intervened, agency spokeswoman Nicole Bailes said.

Lane was not involved in the struggle in the jail between the prisoner and guards, but struck the inmate in the abdomen after he was restrained, Bailes said.