Encino Man Is Stabbed in Jail

A 24-year old Encino man awaiting trial on a narcotics charge was in critical condition Wednesday night after he was stabbed by another inmate at the Los Angeles County Men’s Central Jail, the county Sheriff’s Department said.

Javier Karo was stabbed four times in the shoulder, chest and back with a handmade knife as he walked back to his cell from the showers, Deputy Rick Adams said. Karo was taken to the County-USC Medical Center, Adams said.

Adams said Victor Diaz, 23, is being held on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon. Diaz had been convicted of grand theft and was awaiting transfer to state prison when the attack occurred about 3:15 p.m.

No motive for the attack has been established, Adams said.