Crime & Safety
15 More Years For MN Inmate Who Partially Blinded Correctional Sgt.
The woman lost vision in her left eye despite numerous surgeries over several months, authorities said.
STILLWATER, MN — An inmate at the Minnesota Correctional Facility in Oak Park Heights will spend an additional 15 years in prison after attacking a correctional sergeant last year, leaving her with permanent vision loss.
Dominique Antoine Jefferson, 37, pled guilty and was sentenced in Washington County District Court to first-degree assault on Thursday. Jefferson has been incarcerated since 2005 following his conviction of aiding and abetting second-degree murder.
"In a profession already burdened with the challenges of ensuring safety and order, correctional officers should never have to face the added threat of violence," said Washington County Attorney Kevin Magnuson.
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"We commend the courageous correctional sergeant for her resilience in the face of adversity, and we continue to prioritize our commitment to pursuing justice in support of the safety and well-being of those who serve within our correctional facilities."
On Jan. 15, 2023, just after 9:30 a.m., Jefferson asked to speak with a member of the crisis intervention team. After "a brief exchange of words," a correctional sergeant ordered Jefferson to return to his cell, authorities said.
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However, Jefferson refused, grabbed a clear plastic mouthguard from his pants pocket, and placed it in his mouth, according to investigators.
He then told the sergeant to "ring the bell" and "I've been waiting for you," the criminal complaint states. As the sergeant reached for her radio to call for assistance, Jefferson punched her with a closed fist and she fall to the ground, according to authorities.
Other officers restrained Jefferson, but he continued to verbally assault and threaten them, the criminal complaint states.
The sergeant was taken to Regions Hospital with significant damage to her right eye and several facial fractures. Despite multiple surgeries over months, the sergeant now has permanent vision loss in her right eye, according to authorities.
She will also require additional surgical procedures to repair the fractures in her facial bones.
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