Current:Home > reviewsK-9 killed protecting officer and inmate who was attacked by prisoners, Virginia officials say -Aspire Money Growth
K-9 killed protecting officer and inmate who was attacked by prisoners, Virginia officials say
View
Date:2025-04-14 09:12:33
RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — A K-9 was killed “heroically” protecting a correctional officer, who was responding to a violent attack involving apparent gang members, Virginia prison officials said.
Rivan, a 5-year-old Belgian Malinois, died despite life-saving measures after being “violently and repeatedly stabbed and kicked” by the inmates involved in the assault, the Virginia Department of Corrections said in a news release Wednesday.
Three inmates affiliated with the MS-13 gang attacked another inmate Tuesday inside a housing unit at the Sussex I State Prison, with another inmate appearing to supervise the assault, the department said. Corrections Officer Kharmishia Phillip Fields and Rivan, her assigned K-9, were working in the area and responded to stop the attack and protect the inmates, the department said in a news release.
Rivan sustained injuries but Phillip Fields, a four-year veteran of the department, did not, “due to her training and Rivan’s courageous actions,” the news release said. Corrections officers ended the assault, and the inmate who was attacked was treated for injuries at a hospital and returned to the prison, according to the department.
“The loss of Rivan is truly tragic, but it is important to remember he did not die in vain,” Virginia Department of Corrections Director Chad Dotson said in a statement. “He lost his life while potentially saving the lives of two people, his assigned Officer and an inmate. The VADOC will never forget Rivan’s sacrifice.”
The department’s statement did not identify the inmates who were involved by name but said at least three were verified members of MS-13. All four were in the U.S. illegally when they were arrested and convicted, the department said.
They had been incarcerated on charges ranging from first-degree homicide to attempted rape and counts related to child sexual abuse images.
The department said it intended to seek prosecution of the inmates to the fullest extent of the law and that no further details would be provided amid an investigation.
Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin said on social media that the “barbaric members of MS-13 will be held accountable.”
Rivan would have turned 6 on April 30 and had been with the department since 2019. A memorial service is being planned.
veryGood! (5892)
Related
- From family road trips to travel woes: Americans are navigating skyrocketing holiday costs
- Paris Olympics: Why Fries and Avocados Are Banned in the Olympic Village
- Waffle fry farewell? Chick-fil-A responds to rumors that it's replacing its famous fries
- Irish sisters christen US warship bearing name of their brother, who was lauded for heroism
- See you latte: Starbucks plans to cut 30% of its menu
- Irish sisters christen US warship bearing name of their brother, who was lauded for heroism
- How many Olympics has Simone Biles been in? A look at all her appearances at the Games.
- Fostering a kitten? A Californian university wants to hear from you
- NHL in ASL returns, delivering American Sign Language analysis for Deaf community at Winter Classic
- Grimes' Mom Accuses Elon Musk of Withholding Couple's 3 Kids From Visiting Dying Relative
Ranking
- Justice Department, Louisville reach deal after probe prompted by Breonna Taylor killing
- Drag queens shine at Olympics opening, but ‘Last Supper’ tableau draws criticism
- Judge denies bid to move trial of ex-officer out of Philadelphia due to coverage, protests
- When is Olympic gymnastics balance beam final? What to know about Paris Games event
- Jorge Ramos reveals his final day with 'Noticiero Univision': 'It's been quite a ride'
- Paris Olympics opening ceremony: Everything you didn't see on NBC's broadcast
- 'Alien: Romulus' cast faces freaky Facehuggers at Comic-Con: 'Just run'
- Wayfair Black Friday in July 2024: Save Up to 83% on Small Space & Dorm Essentials from Bissell & More
Recommendation
Intel's stock did something it hasn't done since 2022
MLB trade deadline tracker 2024: Breaking down every deal before baseball's big day
US boxer Jajaira Gonzalez beats French gold medalist, quiets raucous crowd
WNBA players ready to help Kamala Harris' presidential bid
Elon Musk's skyrocketing net worth: He's the first person with over $400 billion
Real Housewives of New Jersey Star Melissa Gorga’s Hacks for Stress-Free Summer Hosting Start at $6.49
Watch this driver uncover the source of a mysterious noise under her car hood
A strike from Lebanon killed 12 youths. Could that spark war between Israel and Hezbollah?