This is a news release of the Kern County Sheriff's Office.
Please do not contact the Sheriff's Communications Center.

Date:  Sunday, April 19, 2009
Time:  11:06:30 PM
Department Contact: Sgt. M. Downs

Details:On 4-19-09 at 1735 hours deputies from the Taft Substation responded to 113 South Street in Taft.  On their arrival they found Samuel James Pierce, a white male, 40 years of age, suffering from a stab wound to the left side of his ribcage.  Pierce was airlifted by helicopter to Kern Medical Center where he is listed in stable condition.

     Investigation conducted by Taft Substation Deputies determined that a fight over money occurred at the residence.  During the fight Pierce was stabbed and the suspects fled the scene.  Deputies later located and arrested Thomas George Cowan, a white male, 25 years of age and Jerry T. Bright, a white male, 19 years of age.  Both subjects were arrested and booked into the Taft Jail for PC 245(a)(1) Assault with a Deadly Weapon.