RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — A former Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) inmate was charged with the felony assault of three officers at the State Farm Correctional Center.
According to VADOC, 35-year-old inmate Ronald Whitehead is charged with three counts of assault and battery on a correctional officer. These charges were filed in Powhatan County Circuit Court.
On the morning of Jan. 31, Whitehead allegedly became aggressive after police observed him in an unauthorized area and asked him to report to the watch office. Whitehead punched officers multiple times after he was placed on the ground by officers to gain compliance, according to VADOC.
Three staff members received medical treatment at a local hospital, while one of the employees had a dislocated knee from the assault.
Whitehead’s original sentencing with VADOC ended on Friday, March 22, and on his release day, he was placed in custody at Powhatan County Sherriff’s Office, according to VADOC.
“Violence against Virginia Department of Corrections employees will not be tolerated,” said VADOC Director Chad Dotson. “I thank the staff members who responded to this situation for their courage. I wish them well in their recovery. Additionally, I sincerely thank Commonwealth’s Attorney Rob Cerullo and the Powhatan County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office for pursuing these charges. We will continue to do everything in our power to support these efforts.”
