Sing Sing Correction Officer Accused Of Assaulting Inmate

OSSINING, N.Y. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- A New York State correction officer has been arrested on charges he hit an inmate during an unprovoked attack at Sing Sing prison in Ossining.

New York State Police said Tuesday that Lavar Thomas, 36, of Manhattan, was arrested on assault and harassment charges.

Authorities said they launched a probe in May after receiving a complaint alleging Thomas used excessive force against an inmate.

He struck an inmate several times without provocation, investigators said. The inmate suffered minor injuries.

Thomas was released without bail after appearing at the Village of Ossining Court, police said. He is due back in court Oct. 20.

It wasn't clear if he had an attorney to comment on the allegations.

A spokesman said officials at Thomas' union were still reviewing the allegations. A spokeswoman for the state prison system didn't immediately respond to requests for comment.

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