DOC investigating incident at ISP Monday

FORT MADISON – State officials are holding information very close to the chest on an incident that took place at Iowa State Penitentiary early Monday afternoon.
LeeComm had dispatched emergency crews to the prison with a report of a stabbing afternoon on Monday. However Iowa Department of Corrections officials aren’t providing any information other than an investigation is underway.
The Des Moines Register reported Tuesday afternoon that two correctional officers were injured in the attack Monday, one had to be taken to the hospital by ambulance. Pen City Current has been unable to confirm those details with officials at ISP, who declined comment, and the DOC.
“We cannot confirm or deny that something took place. We just know that an investigation is happening at this time, and we can't give out any info until the investigation is complete,” a DOC spokesperson wrote in an email to Pen City Current Tuesday morning.
Tuesday afternoon, the DOC issued another statement in response to information put out by AFSCME, the union representing prison staff in Fort Madison.
The AFSCME statement wasn’t received by Pen City Current and wasn’t posted on the AFSCME website as of 5 p.m. Tuesday.
“The Iowa Department of Corrections has been made aware of a statement made by AFSCME in regards to an assault at Iowa State Penitentiary. While we don't comment on open investigations, the safety of our correctional officers and inmates is of top importance. We are committed to implementing best practices in security, training, and compliance to create an environment where all individuals can feel safe. This includes:
1.    Comprehensive Training: All correctional staff undergo extensive training that equips them to handle challenging situations, de-escalate conflicts, and ensure the safety of themselves and inmates in their care.
2.    Compliance Office: This consists of regular security checks, security audits of each prison, and vulnerability assessments. 
3.    Enhanced Security Measures: We continuously assess and upgrade our security protocols, including surveillance technology and staffing levels, to effectively manage risks within our facilities.”