BLOOMSBURG -- Fights have been erupting inside Columbia County Prison with more frequency in recent weeks, spurring a full lockdown after four workers were injured in a scuffle with a dozen inmates last weekend.
It was the most recent of about half a dozen squabbles in the last two months that have left his corrections officers injured, Warden William Campbell said.
"So I have to get their attention," he said. "(Prisoners are) going to remain locked down until further notice. No visits. No television. No nothing."
On Dec. 29, three fights broke out simultaneously in D South, with county inmates pitted against federal prisoners in a quarrel over respect, Campbell said.
Four officers jumped into the melee to put an end to it. Officer Charles Hanks and another corrections officer were hit in the back of their heads. Officer Troy Hawkins took a hit to the ribs. Officer Cody Fox came away with a sprained wrist.
None of the four had to take medical leave, Campbell added.
So for the last week the approximately 200 inmates housed here have spent 23 hours a day locked in their cells. They're let out for an hour to shower and take in some recreation. Normally, they can interact in cell block common areas for hours during the day.
Visitation with friends and family was cut off until further notice, as were the perks of inmates on work release, normally permitted to go out to earn money and work off part of their debt during the day.
Read more about what's causing the fights and the future of restrictions at the jail in Saturday's edition.By Kristin Baver - Press Enterprise WriterFor all breaking news alerts and updates, follow us on Twitter.
