ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — A man accused of spitting in a deputy’s face will serve nearly 10 years in custody, the Buncombe County District Attorney’s Office said.
Luke Michael Karrick, 40, was convicted Tuesday, April 29, in Buncombe County Superior Court of felony malicious conduct by a prisoner and of attaining habitual felon status, the district attorney’s office said. The conviction followed a two-day jury trial.
Prosecutors said evidence showed that while in custody awaiting trial on other charges, Karrick intentionally spat in the face of a Buncombe County sheriff’s deputy.
Judge Jacqueline Grant sentenced Karrick to 119 to 155 months in the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction. Under North Carolina law, individuals designated as habitual felons — those convicted of a fourth felony after three prior non-overlapping felonies — face enhanced sentences.
Assistant District Attorney Justin Philbeck prosecuted the case.