A corrections officer at the Women’s Correctional Center in Purdy suffered whiplash, a brain contusion and a concussion after being punched by an inmate last month.
Pierce County prosecutors have charged the 28-year-old inmate with custodial assault. She has not yet been arraigned.
The incident happened Feb. 15 after the inmate was ordered to return to her cell and retrieve a cup inmates are supposed to bring to receive their medication. When the woman refused, a sergeant got on the radio to notify other officers of the situation.
As the inmate tried to leave, the officer ordered her to stay put. The inmate then allegedly punched the officer in the eye. Prosecutors said the officer is still suffering headaches from the injuries.
The inmate has since been released from prison, but the state Department of Corrections said she is not complying with her parole. The woman has prior convictions for third-degree assault and custodial assault.
stacia.glenn@ thenewstribune.com
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