Officials issue update Thursday after 5 Massachusetts correction officers were injured in stabbing incident involving inmates

Officials have issued an update after an incident that took place at a Massachusetts correction facility on Wednesday.

According to Scott Croteau of the Massachusetts Department of Correction, on Wednesday, at just after 6:15 p.m., the Massachusetts Department of Correction received a report of multiple injured correction officers inside the Souza Baranowski Correctional Center. Two correction officers were assaulted by incarcerated individuals and sustained multiple stab wounds. Three additional correction officers were injured when responding to the incident. A total of 5 correction officers were transported to nearby hospitals for medical treatment.  

Four correction officers have been treated and released from the hospital, while one correction officer remains hospitalized and is being treated for non-life threatening injuries.  

The Department of Correction stated that they have modified operations at Souza Baranowski Correctional Center to ensure the safety and security of all who work and reside there.

The Department has launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the facts and circumstances and is also conducting a full security assessment. The incarcerated males identified to be involved in this incident have been transferred to other DOC facilities.  

Massachusetts State Police investigators and their Crime Scene Response Unit responded to the facility Wednesday evening. The DOC is conducting a full criminal investigation in coordination with the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office. 

The Employee Assistance Unit has been made available to provide support and resources to DOC staff.  

“Our correction officers perform an essential and difficult job. Their safety is our top priority. I am deeply concerned about the incident at Souza Baranowski Correctional Center, which resulted in injuries to five correction officers. My thoughts are with the officers and their families at this time and the Department offers our full support to the officers as they recover from their injuries.  Violence against DOC staff is unacceptable, and we will take the steps necessary to ensure those responsible are held accountable under the law. 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.”  – said DOC Interim Commissioner Shawn Jenkins.  

  The Massachusetts Correction Officers Federated Union issued the following statement after the incident.

“SBCC on lockdown after Officer stabbing to the back and head. Multiple Officers taken out in ambulances! Massachusetts Department of Correction ENOUGH! It’s been 4 years since you authorized the use of the tactical units and done a thorough institution wide search! How much more do our members have to endure before you decide to keep them safe? The inmates are literally running the asylum. Do your jobs.”