Rikers Guard Punched In Face By Inmate, Authorities Say
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- A Rikers Correctional Facility guard was taken to the hospital after being punched by an inmate, according to authorities.
The Department of Corrections said the guard was punched in the face several times by the inmate on Friday night.
The attack was unprovoked and part of a gang scheme, CBS2 reported. According to authorities, the inmate was allegedly part of the Crips gang.
"This assault on our officer was unacceptable. Such attacks against the hardworking men and women who serve in our department will not be tolerated," DOC Commissioner Joseph Ponte said in a statement. "We have zero tolerance for assaults on staff and are deeply committed to creating a culture of safety at the Department of Correction."
New York City Correction Officer's Benevolent Association president Norman Seabrook urged for reform in wake of the recent attack.
"Rikers reform is necessary and something we support, but our members need to be part of the conversation around reform and we need to be consulted on policies that limit how we deal with dangerous inmates," Seabrook said in a statement.
The inmate is being re-arrested by the DOC and will face prosecution, according to sources.
Investigators said a captain also hurt his hand while helping the officer.
Both the guard and the inmate were taken to the hospital.
