A Reno County jury came up with a mixed verdict for a Hutchinson man who was accused of two counts of aggravated battery of a law enforcement officer. On count one, the state contended that Christopher White committed “intentional” aggravated battery, but the jury found him guilty of “reckless” aggravated battery, a slightly lesser offense. The jury also found White not guilty on the second count.

The case involves Hutchinson Police Officers Chris Flynn and Robert Wylie who were trying to get White into custody. They were apparently sent to check on the defendant’s welfare when he allegedly became combative and literally jumped on top of Officer Flynn. But, White took the stand in his own defense and contradicted that claim saying the officer pulled him, even ripping his shirt.

The state says as they struggled, officer Flynn at some point was knocked out and testified Tuesday that he still has trouble remembering exactly what happened that night. He was transported on a spine board to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center where he was examined. The stated in their closing stated that a CAT scan was done on Flynn, while the defense contends that scan was deemed unremarkable, in other words not that serious.

White was acting bizarre according to the initial report riding his bicycle in circles of the parking lot of the Kwik Shop at 4th & K-61 around 12:20 a-m, back on June 22, of last year. He was apparently yelling for someone to help him and claiming he had seen the ghost of his father.

The state contends he was under the influence of methamphetamine, alcohol and other prescription drugs.

The verdict Wednesday coming shortly after the jury asked for an explanation of the difference between aggravated battery and simple battery. Judge Tim Chambers told them to look in the instructions which explains it.

Again, the jury finding White guilty on count 1 of reckless aggravated battery and not guilty on count 2.

Sentencing in the case set for June 7 at 10:30 a-m.