Two correctional officers were brutally stabbed by inmates at Souza-Baranowski Correctional Center, leaving the community in shock and raising serious questions about prison safety.
At a Glance
- Incident occurred at Souza-Baranowski Correctional Center in Lancaster, Massachusetts
- Two officers were stabbed, three others injured
- The facility is in lockdown and the attack happened around 6:20 p.m. Wednesday
- Inmates involved in the attack have been transferred to different prisons
- Union and legislators push for enhanced safety measures and thorough security review
Details of the Violent Outbreak
At around 6:20 p.m. on Wednesday, a violent outbreak occurred at the Souza-Baranowski Correctional Center in Lancaster, Massachusetts. Two correctional officers were stabbed while performing routine rounds, and three additional officers were injured while intervening. The facility remains on lockdown, and the road leading to the prison is blocked off.
The incident resulted in one officer being stabbed 12 times in the back and another in the back of the head. All five officers were hospitalized, with four having been released and one remaining in serious condition.
An investigation is currently underway, involving the Massachusetts Department of Correction, Massachusetts State Police, and the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office. Inmates involved in the attack have been relocated to other Department of Correction facilities.
The investigation continues into a violent incident where two correction officers were stabbed and three others injured on Wednesday afternoon at the maximum-security Souza-Baranowski Correctional Center. https://t.co/ddmL0oTRaQ
— NBC10 Boston (@NBC10Boston) September 19, 2024
Response from the Union and Officials
Union President Dennis Martin has voiced strong criticism towards the Department of Correction, citing this attack as the tragic consequence of repeated warnings being ignored. Martin has called the event an attempted murder and has emphasized the need for immediate action to ensure the safety of staff and inmates alike.
“This isn’t an isolated attack here,” Martin said. “This is an attempted murder on a correction officer. This union is beyond displeased with the outcome of this. This is uncalled for. An attempted murder of a correction officer inside a facility.”
The union has previously warned about homemade weapons made from free tablets given to inmates. Martin noted that these warnings have fallen on deaf ears within the Department of Correction. The union is now calling for specialized units to conduct thorough searches for weapons and contraband.
Official Statements and Next Steps
Interim Commissioner Shawn Jenkins has promised a thorough security review and stressed the importance of accountability. Jenkins has committed to a comprehensive investigation to uncover the facts and circumstances surrounding the attack.
“Violence against DOC staff is unacceptable, and we will take the steps necessary to ensure those responsible are held accountable under the law,” Jenkins stated. “Our Department will also conduct a thorough security assessment and review of protocols to ensure the safety and security of all who work and live at our facilities.”
State legislators Sen. Peter Durant and Rep. Michael Soter have called for an investigation into this incident, reflecting widespread concern over prison safety. The state had previously begun providing tablets to inmates for education and job training, but in light of the recent events, lawmakers are now calling for the immediate confiscation of these devices.
