A correctional officer is recovering from injuries sustained during an attack by an inmate at North Kern State Prison (NKSP).

On December 5, 2016, as the correctional officer was monitoring the evening meal release, 33-year-old inmate Frankie Germany approached the officer with his fists raised in a fighting position. The officer immediately activated his Personal Alarm Device and ordered inmate Germany to get down on the ground with negative results. Another correctional officer ordered all inmates to get down using the Public Address system.

When Germany did not get down and continued to advance aggressively, the officer discharged pepper spray at Germany’s face. This use of force was not effective and Germany continued to advance at the officer. Before the officer could react further, Germany lunged and struck the officer in the face. The officer then wrapped his arms around the inmate and forced him to the ground.

The officer was transported to a local hospital, where he was treated for a fractured thumb and released.

Germany did not sustain any injuries and was placed in the Administrative Segregation Unit and charged with Battery on a Peace Officer resulting in Significant Bodily Injury.