DOC: Souza-Baranowski inmate assaults officer, lights cell on fire

SHIRLEY, Mass. — A female officer was assaulted by an inmate during medication rounds at Souza-Baranowski in Shirley, Massachusetts on Tuesday, according to the Department of Corrections.

According to a report, the inmate, who has yet to be identified, threw liquid through the foot slot before grabbing the officer’s arm. She was able to get free before DOC officials say the inmate set fire to the inside of his cell.

Officials say the inmate used a battery from his radio to start the fire. He was evacuated from his cell, along with his neighbors. All were treated for smoke inhalation.

The inmate and the officer were taken to outside hospitals to be treated.

The incident is under investigation. The facility was not put on lockdown.

Souza-Baranowski has been the focus of some controversy recently after a ‘serious assault’ on three guards and protests by inmates.

MORE: Local legislators take a deeper look inside Souza-Baranowski following recent incidents

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