Correctional officers attacked the Pontiac Correctional Center | Main stories

PONTIAC, Ill. (WAND) — A sergeant and a corrections officer were assaulted today at the Pontiac Correctional Center.

Union leaders and public information officer Naomi Pucella confirmed that the officers were attacked with homemade weapons. Both officers survived, but the sergeant had to be transported for emergency treatment and evaluation.

AFSCME Council 31 Executive Director Roberta Lynch and AFSCME Local 494 President and Corrections Lt. William Lee released a joint statement regarding the incident.

“This incident serves as a painful reminder of the dangers correctional officers face on the job every day. This sergeant came to work today expecting to do his job and keep the Pontiac Correctional Center safe, but instead he was the victim of a brutal attack.

He was airlifted to OSF in Peoria, where he is being evaluated and treated. A corrections officer was also injured when he rushed to the sergeant’s aid and has since been treated for his injuries and released.

The courage of the men and women who work at the Pontiac Correctional Center was on full display today. Despite being understaffed, our officers on duty responded quickly to apprehend the offender and provide medical care to the injured sergeant. Their quick and decisive response prevented a potentially deadly situation from spiraling out of control.

The thoughts of AFSCME members across the state are with the injured sergeant and his family as we hope for a full recovery.”

The facility was closed and the incident is under investigation.

Copyright 2022. WAND TV. All rights reserved.