Stillwater prison sealed off after attack on two correctional officers

Bayport, Minnesota. – The Stillwater Correctional Facility is on lockdown Sunday after two correctional officers were attacked by inmates Saturday morning.

According to the Minnesota Department of Corrections, the attack began around 11:30 a.m. An inmate initially attacked a police officer, another inmate and a second police officer rushed to stop the attack. Then a third inmate began to attack the second police officer.

The DOC said both officers were treated and released from the hospital and the two inmates who attacked them were transferred to the maximum security prison in Oak Park Heights.

DOC Commissioner Paul Schnell called the attacks “cowardly” and praised the inmate who tried to help.

“This attack on correctional officers at the Stillwater Correctional Facility is another unfortunate reminder of the challenges and risks faced by correctional personnel,” Schnell said.

The DOC’s Office of Special Investigations is still gathering information on the incident.

This attack occurs eight months after the prison was closed when dozens of prisoners refused to return to their cells in protest against the limited release period due to staff shortages, and Concerns about water quality in the plant.

This story is constantly developing. Stay tuned to WCCO.com for more information.