VADOC investigating the stabbing of three corrections officers by MS-13 gang members
(RICHMOND) - A premeditated attack on three Corrections Officers at Wallens Ridge State Prison in Big Stone Gap, VA is currently under investigation by the Virginia Department of Corrections.
The attack occurred at approximately 9:45 a.m. on Friday, May 2. Five of the six inmates involved in the attack are confirmed MS-13 gang members from El Salvador, who were in this country illegally. The sixth member of the group involved in the attack is a member of the Sureño 13 gang.
“Five of the individuals responsible for this senseless attack should never have been in this country in the first place,” said VADOC Director Chad Dotson in a press release to Dickenson Media. “Every single day, our officers put their lives on the line to ensure public safety for the more than 8.8 million people across the Commonwealth. This attack is an example of the dangers they face when they show up to work every day.”
According to the Virginia Department of Corrections, each have been convicted of violent crimes including aggravated murder, first and second-degree murder, and rape. The other inmate involved in the attack is from the United States, serving a sentence for second degree murder.
Five officers were transported for outside medical treatment. Three officers, including two who suffered minor injuries while responding to the attack, have been discharged. Two officers have been admitted to the hospital and are currently listed in stable condition.
“Our officers are heroes, and I commend the team at Wallens Ridge for their swift response,” added Dotson.
The attack is currently under investigation, and no further response will be provided until the investigation is complete.
