News

Actions

Correctional Officer Attacked At Morgan Co. Correctional Complex

Posted
and last updated

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -- The Tennessee Department of Correction says two prison officers have been hospitalized since Saturday following attacks by inmates.

The attacks come amid a debate about safety in prisons across the state.

According to reports, an inmate assaulted an officer at Morgan County Correctional Complex on Tuesday. Spokesman Robert Reburn said no weapons were involved, but the officer determined the injuries were severe enough to warrant an ambulance. A news release said the injuries didn't appear to be life-threatening.

Spokeswoman Neysa Taylor said an officer was assaulted by an inmate Saturday at West Tennessee State Penitentiary. That officer's injuries were also not believed to be life-threatening.

Correction Commissioner Derrick Schofield has said violence is down at prisons, but critics say a change in scheduling has caused staffers to leave, impacting prison safety.