Two inmates lose their lives, while others are hurt as a result of a "tactical misstep" prompting clashes between gang members in an Oklahoma correctional facility.
This event transpired at the Lawton Correctional and Rehabilitation Facility on a Friday, and is subject to investigation by the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, as per a statement from Kay Thompson, their public relations chief.
In an email to CNN on Saturday, Kay Thompson clarified that the disorder arose from a "operational error" that permitted the occurrence of this disturbance. Thompson also mentioned that it was connected to "security threat groups," a term that essentially equates to gangs.
Consequently, the facility has been secured, and all appointments have been postponed until the weekend.
A representative from The GEO Group, a firm that manages detention centers and prisons for government contracts, reported to CNN that the fatalities and injuries were brought about by "inmate-on-inmate assault."
Thompson omitted the identities of the two fatalities in her statement. In addition to the two deaths, two inmates sustained severe injuries. One was transported to the hospital via helicopter, while the other was taken there by car. Additionally, multiple inmates received minor injuries, but the exact count remains elusive, Thompson declared. One officer also encountered minor injuries, as per The GEO Group.
When asked about the nature of the "operational error," Thompson enlightened CNN, "Investigations are still ongoing to ascertain the cause. We will share that information once the investigation concludes."
Thompson stated, "Though LCRF is a private prison, we are collaborating closely with The GEO Group to comprehend how this event unfolded and what corrective measures need to be taken."
The GEO Group added, "The well-being and safety of all those under our supervision is our top priority, and we condemn any instances of violence with absolute intolerance."
The Lawton Correctional and Rehabilitation Facility can be found roughly 86 miles southwest of Oklahoma City. The prison has been in operation since 1998, as per The GEO Group, and has an accommodating capacity of 2,682 inmates.
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Source: edition.cnn.com
