SAN LUIS OBISPO – On Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2019, at 1:13 pm., approximately 40 inmates were involved in a riot at the California Men’s Colony State Prison (CMC) on the Facility A yard, a medium-custody yard.
The riot occurred when a group of approximately 20 inmates rushed a group of approximately 10 inmates on the recreation yard. Moments later, a second group of approximately 10 inmates joined in the attack. Correctional officers immediately responded to the area where the fights were occurring, and gave multiple orders to stop fighting. When inmates did not comply, officers used pepper spray and non-lethal projectiles to quell the incident. Only non-lethal force was used. At least one inmate-manufactured weapon was recovered at the scene.
Approximately four inmates sustained slashing or stabbing-type wounds during the riot. Two inmates were transported to an area hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries.
No staff were injured.
The incident is being investigated by the Investigative Services Unit at the prison. The Office of the Inspector General and the Office of Internal Affairs was notified.
Inmate movement on Facility A has been limited to facilitate the investigation into the cause of the riot.
The primary mission of CMC is to provide housing, programs and services for approximately 4,000 minimum- and medium-custody inmates. The facility also provides a Mental Health Delivery System in the form of an Enhanced Outpatient Program and Outpatient treatment for inmates assigned to the Correctional Clinical Case Management System, as well as a new fully licensed 50 bed Mental Health Crisis Unit.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Dana Simas (916) 207-8085