VIDEO: Massachusetts Corrections Officers Union blames criminal justice reform for assault on officers

The Massachusetts Correction Officers Federated Union is speaking out in regards to an altercation at a correctional facility in the state.

At approximately 11:00 a.m. Friday, several officers were assaulted at the Souza Baranowski Correctional Center in Shirley, MA. Three Officers at Souza Baranowski were seriously assaulted, resulting in severe injury, and transported by ambulance to area hospitals. One officer is currently undergoing surgery.

The union references a recent piece of legislation as the cause for the incident.

“This incident is in the wake of an estimated 150% increase in Officer and staff assaults. This is a direct result from the recently enacted Criminal Justice Reform Act legislation, which was promulgated by Inmate rights groups and activists.”

MCOFU Spokesperson Guy W. Glodis said that the assaults, are the direct result of more relaxed rules and regulations mandated by the Criminal Justice Reform Act legislation.

“This legislation grants inmates more rights, freedom, housing, and tier time. This has allowed inmates to manipulate the system, and engage in violent action, increased gang activity, intimidation and assaults on officers and other inmates.”

“The Criminal Justice Reform Act legislation makes it inherently difficult for Officers to do their job, and provide the security necessary, to make institutions more safe and secure.”