Spokane County Jail inmate allegedly assaults staffer

A Spokane County Jail inmate allegedly walked into the jail cook’s office, undressed himself and sexually assaulted a staff member Friday morning.

According to court documents, the victim was working in the office when Benjamin F. Hodde, 32, walked in and sat on her desk. She told him to leave, but he allegedly refused.

“Did you know you have beautiful blue eyes?” Hodde asked her, according to court documents. “I love you and I’m going to prove it and I’m coming back for you.”

Hodde stood up and removed his jumpsuit and undershirt, shouting obscene comments, court documents say. He tried to close the door as the cook tried to push him out, shouting for help.

Another inmate stood between them before other jail staff arrived, court documents say. The woman received a bruise and a scratch in the confrontation.

Hodde was booked into the jail July 14 on a first-degree theft charge. He is now accused of custodial assault, a felony charge reserved for attacks on staff in correctional and educational facilities.