NEW BEDFORD — Five inmates have been charged in connection with an uprising at the Bristol County House of Correction and Jail that took place last April, the Bristol County District Attorney announced Saturday.
The charges come after an investigation into the incident, which officials say began when inmates were informed they would be moved to a different housing unit.
Sheriff Paul Heroux remarked that approximately 17 inmates initiated the rebellion, resulting in extensive damage to the facility.
According to the sheriff’s office, the charged inmates were captured on video destroying property, including ceiling cameras, windows, and beds.
The inmates also fashioned weapons from debris caused by the destruction.
Heroux stated that the video evidence would remain confidential until it can be presented to the juries.
In response to the uprising, the sheriff’s office deployed additional personnel.
However, they initially attempted to resolve the situation through dialogue with the inmates leading the revolt.
When negotiations failed, correction officers resorted to using flash bangs and pepper spray to regain control of the situation.
Heroux described the event as being perilously close to a hostage crisis, with the disturbance ceasing mere “seconds” before it could escalate further.
The damage inflicted on the jail is estimated to be between $100,000 and $200,000.
The sheriff was seen observing the preparations of the correction officers to re-enter the facility on Friday, as shown in a photo provided by the Bristol County Sheriff’s Office.
The legal proceedings for the charged inmates are set to move forward as the authorities continue to handle the aftermath of the April uprising.
