Three Correctional Officers Hurt by "Deranged Individual"

CRANSTON, RI—Three correctional officers at the Adult Correctional Institutions in Cranston were injured as they worked to subdue a "deranged individual" who breached the inner perimeter of the medium security facility on Saturday.

Members of the union that represents ACI correctional officers said that the man attacked the perimeter officer with punches and "extensive amounts of spit"

"It took upwards of five officers and an application of sparya and [a] lot of muscle to get him cuffed," they said.

Another officer was punched in the face and another suffered a shoulder. The perimeter officer was scratched and clawed and the man continued to fight with members of the state police.

The man was so violent and out of control, police had to use a spit mask.

"Officers showed great restraint," the union said in a statement. "Hoping for a speed recovery for these guys."

Police have not yet released details about the incident. A spokesman for the state Department of Corrections did not immediately return a phone call on Sunday.

COs at the ACI have been dealing with an increase in violence within the confines of the state prison. While on-the-job violence is a part of the career, COs say that in recent years, prisoners have been more violent and aggressive. In this instance, the danger facing COs outside prison walls, not just inside, is apparent.

"The job is becoming more dangerous for us," the union said.

This story will be updated.