RICHMOND, Va. — All five correctional officers injured in a brutal attack at Wallens Ridge State Prison have been released from the hospital, the Virginia Department of Corrections announced.
The attack, which occurred on the morning of May 2, involved six inmates, five of whom are confirmed MS-13 gang members from El Salvador and in the U.S. illegally, according to VADOC. The sixth inmate is a confirmed Sureño 13 gang member from the U.S., serving a sentence for second-degree murder. The other inmates have been convicted of crimes including aggravated murder, first- and second-degree murder and rape.
VADOC said the attack was premeditated.
“Our entire agency is relieved that all five officers involved in this heinous attack have now been discharged,” VADOC Director Chad Dotson said in a statement. “They have constantly been in our prayers and are at the forefront of our thoughts.”
Two officers were hospitalized following the stabbing, while three others — including two who suffered minor injuries while responding — were treated and released the day of the attack.
All six inmates have since been transferred to another VADOC facility. The incident remains under investigation.
Dotson praised the correctional staff for their response and pledged support for the injured officers.
“Our corrections officers are public servants who work around the clock to keep the Commonwealth safe,” he said. “Please know that our department will seek to prosecute these inmates, and any inmates who so much as lay a hand on our officers, to the furthest extent of the law.”
No further details have been released.
How can a corrections officer overcome multiple attackers? The video below discusses 12 recommendations COs can take in the event of an attack.
