Inmate assaults Wisconsin correctional officer
WAUPUN, Wis. — Officials say a Waupun correctional officer was injured after an inmate attack Thursday evening.
According to WGBA, the officer was transferred to a local hospital and the incident is under investigation.
“The DOC is fully committed to the safety, security, and wellbeing of staff at DOC correctional facilities,” Wisconsin DOC communications director Tristan Cook said. “As part of this effort, DOC conducts a review of significant incidents to identify potential improvements to department and institution policies and practices.”
The news station reported that this attack was the seventh assault on a correctional officer in the state over the last few months.
State lawmakers are introducing a bill to help stop the attacks. Representative Andre Jacque is drafting legislation called “Protect Our Protectors” to expand penalties for criminals who target COs.
“I am deeply saddened by the increasing frequency of attacks on those who protect our community, including yesterday’s assault at Waupun Correctional Institution,” Rep. Andre Jacque said in a statement. “Specifically, the bill will expand the list of persons who can be a victim of what is commonly known as a “hate crime” to include law enforcement officers, correctional officers, and active duty or former military personnel.”