FORT DODGE – The Iowa Department of Corrections reports a correctional officer was assaulted by an inmate at the Fort Dodge Correctional Facility at approximately 10:15 p.m., Sunday. The officer was responding to a cell where inmates had started a fire. When the officer opened the door to the cell, an inmate began striking the officer with close fists and kicks. When the inmate attempted to attack another officer, oleoresin capsicum spray (pepper spray) was used to subdue the aggressive inmate. Staff immediately used a fire extinguisher to put out the fire in the cell, and no damages or injuries were reported as a result of the fire.

The officer that was assaulted was evaluated and treated by institution medical staff for their injuries. The inmate appeared to have not suffered any injuries.  This incident remains under investigation.