Folsom, CA — Two California State Prison officers were hospitalized following a violent attack by an incarcerated man at the California State Prison in Sacramento, authorities confirmed on Sunday. Officials are investigating the case as an attempted homicide.
According to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), the incident occurred Saturday while correctional staff were escorting the suspect from his cell to conduct a search.
“Staff used physical force and chemical agents to quickly quell the attack, and an improvised weapon was found at the scene,” the department said in a statement.
Both officers were transported to a nearby hospital and were listed in fair condition, officials added.
Attack During Routine Escort
The CDCR said the assault happened when officers attempted to remove the inmate from his cell for a routine inspection. During the process, the suspect allegedly turned violent, striking the officers multiple times before they managed to subdue him.
According to AP News, responding staff used both physical restraint techniques and chemical deterrents to stop the attack. The recovery of a homemade weapon at the scene indicated the assault was premeditated.
“The quick actions of staff prevented further injuries or escalation,” a prison spokesperson said.
Suspect’s Criminal Background
Officials identified the suspect as a 48-year-old male inmate who has been incarcerated at the Folsom-area facility since 2011. He was originally sentenced to 17 years for corporal injury to a spouse and received an additional four-year sentence in 2022 for possession and manufacture of a deadly weapon.
Following Saturday’s assault, the inmate was immediately placed in restricted housing pending further investigation.
“The suspect has been separated from the general population as the inquiry continues,” CDCR officials noted.
The case is expected to be referred to the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office for potential felony prosecution related to the attack.
Facility Overview and Staff Response
The California State Prison, Sacramento, located northeast of the state capital, houses more than 2,200 inmates across medium-, maximum-, and high-security levels. The facility is known for managing some of the state’s most dangerous offenders.
Officials praised the officers involved for their swift and professional response, which prevented what could have been a fatal situation.
“Staff training and teamwork were crucial in de-escalating this violent encounter,” prison administrators said.
Both injured officers are expected to recover, though they remain under medical observation as of Sunday evening.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are reviewing surveillance footage and collecting statements from staff who witnessed the incident. Officials have not released the names of the officers or the suspect, citing safety and confidentiality concerns.
The CDCR confirmed that additional security measures are being implemented in the housing unit where the assault occurred.
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