Webb County Detention Center, Laredo, Texas
December 11, 2018
Two correctional officers were attacked by prisoners while reportedly conducting a “cell search” at approximately 3:00 am Tuesday morning at the private prison run by CoreCivic. Approximately 25 prisoners then destroyed prison property, breaking protective panels and windows inside the jail and clogging toilets in several cells. Prisoners also started a fire in the cell reportedly using an “electronic device.”
Sheriff’s Office Special Operations and Response Team (SORT) deployed a flashbang grenade and used other “non-lethal” means of regaining control of the unit.
Damages to the prison were estimated at $29,000.
In late March 2019, the first of the prisoners involved in the uprising was sentenced to five years in prison for riot participation, a first degree felony. The sentence will run concurrently with a 19 year sentence for a previous charge.
(Updated: 4/1/19)
Citations:
“Update: Riot breaks out at the Webb County Jail“, KGNS, December 11, 2018.
“Sheriff: Mexican Mafia gang members allegedly start riot at Webb County jail; 25 face charges“, Laredo Morning Times, December 12, 2018.
“Sheriff: Nearly $30K in damages after Mexican Mafia gang members start riot in Webb County Jail“, Laredo Morning Times, December 11, 2018:
“Riot Reported At Webb County Jail, 25 Inmates Taken To Secure Area“, Fox South Texas, December 11, 2018.
“WCSO: Mexican Mafia failed in its attempt to send message, charges still pending“, Laredo Morning Times, Reposted by Houston Chronicle, December 13, 2018.
“Webb County Sheriff Speaks Out Following Jail Riot“, Fox South Texas, December 12, 2018.
“Suspect Charged In Webb County Jail Riot“, Fox South Texas, March 26, 2019.
“Alleged Laredo gang member sentenced to 19 years for aggravated robbery, Webb County Jail riot“, Laredo Morning Times, March 27, 2019.
