Virginia Prison Assault: MS-13 Gang Members Attack Corrections Officers

Three corrections officers in Virginia required hospitalization on Friday following a violent incident at Wallens Ridge State Prison. Inmates affiliated with the notorious MS-13 gang and another gang coordinated a ruthless attack that left officials alarmed.

The assault occurred around 9:45 a.m. in Wise County. In total, six inmates participated in this brazen attack.

Among the assailants, five inmates are confirmed members of the MS-13 gang, which traces its roots back to El Salvador. Notably, these individuals are in the U.S. illegally.

Each of the five MS-13 members has a history of violent crime, including charges of aggravated murder, first-degree murder, second-degree murder, and rape. The sixth inmate, a U.S. citizen, is affiliated with Sureño 13 gang and is serving time for second-degree murder.

Response from Officials

Virginia Department of Corrections Director Chad Dotson expressed outrage over the incident, stating that the five individuals involved in the attack should never have been allowed to enter the U.S.

Dotson emphasized, “Every single day, our officers put their lives on the line to ensure public safety for over 8.8 million residents across the Commonwealth. This attack highlights the inherent dangers they face daily. Our officers are heroes, and I commend the team at Wallens Ridge for their swift response.”

Injuries Reported

Medical personnel treated five officers following the incident. While three have since been released from care, two officers remain hospitalized but are reported to be in stable condition. The nature of their injuries has not been disclosed.

Investigation Underway

The Virginia Department of Corrections has initiated an investigation into the assault, although further details are still pending. This violent episode has raised alarms about the security protocols in place within the prison system.

Understanding MS-13

MS-13, or Mara Salvatrucha, is a transnational criminal organization known for its brutal tactics. Initially emerging in Los Angeles during the 1980s, it has since expanded its violent reach into Central America and other regions of the United States.

Law enforcement agencies have linked MS-13 to a myriad of violent crimes, including murder, human trafficking, extortion, and drug distribution. The gang’s growing influence poses significant challenges to public safety.

Government Response

In recent years, the Trump administration ramped up enforcement measures targeting violent gang members, including MS-13 affiliates who entered the U.S. illegally. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has reported hundreds of arrests and deportations of gang-affiliated individuals annually.

Moreover, state and federal officials have raised alarms about the implications of MS-13 activity within prison systems. The potential for violence and gang recruitment behind bars is a pressing concern for authorities.

Ongoing Updates Expected

The Virginia Department of Corrections has assured the public that more information will be disclosed once the investigation concludes. The community awaits these developments, hoping for a reinforced security strategy that keeps both corrections officers and inmates safe.