Inmates at the Souza-Baranowski Correctional Center in Lancaster, Massachusetts, stabbed two correctional officers and injured three others in a violent confrontation on Wednesday night. According to Scott Croteau, a spokesperson for the Massachusetts Department of Correction, all five officers were taken to the hospital. Four have since been released, while one remains under medical care for non-life-threatening injuries.
The incident occurred at the maximum-security facility, prompting an immediate response from prison staff. The Department of Correction is working closely with the Worcester County District Attorney’s office to investigate the stabbings. Inmates involved in the attack have been relocated to other facilities as part of ongoing security measures.
While specific details about the injuries have not been fully disclosed, the Massachusetts Correction Officers Federated Union revealed that one officer was stabbed in the back and head. In a strongly worded statement, the union called on the Department of Correction to take more decisive action to protect staff, expressing frustration over repeated incidents of violence against officers.
State Sen. Peter Durant also expressed support for the union, urging for accountability and immediate measures to ensure the safety of correctional officers. “The time has come to act,” Durant stated, emphasizing the need for reforms.
Shawn Jenkins, interim commissioner of the Department of Correction, responded to the incident by announcing plans for a comprehensive security assessment and a review of protocols to bolster safety for both officers and inmates at state correctional facilities.
