Two corrections officers were assaulted at Auburn Correctional Facility when urine was thrown at them, according to NYSCOPBA, the union representing corrections officers.
The union stated that the incident happened on Thursday when the officers were attempting to place a shield designed to stop incarcerated individuals from throwing bodily fluids at staff on the door of the individual’s Special Housing Unit cell. The shield was being installed after the NYSCOPA said the inmate had made several threats against prison staff.
As the officers approached, the inmate allegedly threw a bucket of urine in both officers’ faces and eyes. They were checked over by medical staff on site, who determined they had “experienced significant exposure” before being taken to Auburn Community Hospital for further treatment. They did not return for duty, the union said.
Additional staff arrived and ordered the inmate out of his cell; however, according to NYSCOPBA, he refused, prompting staff to deploy a chemical agent to force compliance. He was then taken to the infirmary for decontamination.
NYSCOPBA added that the 26-year-old individual is eligible for parole next month and is currently serving a two-to-four-year sentence for 2024 convictions for Criminal Contempt and Escape.
“Throwing urine or feces on sta is one of the most despicable acts an inmate can commit. These officers were simply trying to protect others and before they could this convict threw urine on them. Sadly, especially recently, there are many in the public as well as certain elected officials that believe this behavior is normal. That our members, who are public servants, deserve to be treated this way because “that’s their job.” This logic is ridiculous and unacceptable. Even though the law was strengthened several years ago, upgrading this conduct to a Class E felony to better protect o icers from abuse and harassment, laws like the HALT Act gives the incarcerated little to no deterrent for committing acts like this one daily. It would also serve as a clear warning to other inmates that this behavior will not be tolerated if the lawmakers in the majority amended the HALT Act to protect the employees who deal with the incarcerated daily,” stated Kenny Gold, NYSCOPBA Western Region Vice President.
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