Officer Kevin Ott’s atttacker convicted

The inmate who assaulted Saginaw Officer Kevin Ott was convicted today of assault with intent to commit murder and other felonies.

Prisoner Daniel Derda took the stand Thursday and admitted to attacking Ott, according to MLive coverage of the trial.

Ott and Officer Paul Stine were also among those who testified. Ott said his doctor told him he would have died if Stine hadn’t intervened when he did.

The jury deliberated just 30 minutes before reaching the verdict. Derda will be sentenced at a later date.

MCO leaders are pleased the Saginaw County prosecutor’s office took this case to trial, and although justice has been served for CO Kevin Ott, we realize it doesn’t erase the pain and suffering he endured in this brutal attack.

Had staffing been adequate, perhaps this could have been prevented. Ott’s situation should serve as a stark reminder for policy makers that cameras can’t save lives like officers did that day.