CLARINDA –Officials with the Iowa Department of Corrections reported Monday night, that a correctional officer was assaulted at approximately 3:05 pm Monday, at the Clarinda Correctional Facility.

The officer was escorting two inmates to their units when one of the inmates unexpectedly attacked the officer. The inmate was able to land several closed-fist strikes to the officer’s face and head before the officer was able to restrain him long enough to call for assistance. Additional officers quickly responded to the incident and were able to place the attacking inmate in restraints.

The officer that was assaulted was evaluated by facility medical staff, and taken via State vehicle to the Clarinda Regional Health Center for further evaluation. It is believed he suffered bruising and soreness. The inmate involved in the assault suffered no major injuries.

The incident remains under investigation.