Inmates overpower correctional staff and take over North Carolina jail, authorities say

Inmates overpower correctional staff and take over North Carolina jail, authorities say The guards were released “without further injury,” but officials did not elaborate on their conditions - Bookmark - CommentsGo to comments Inmates in a North Carolina jail overpowered correctional staff on Monday, seizing parts of Bertie-Martin Regional Detention Center, authorities said. Three guards and 88 inmates were inside the Windsor jail when the takeover occurred around 5 a.m., the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation said in a statement. Inmates took two guards captive and a third guard escaped, according to the statement. Negotiations eventually led to the release of 18 inmates and the two guards around 9:30 a.m. The guards were released “without further injury,” but officials did not elaborate on their conditions. Another large group of inmates was released shortly thereafter, but authorities have not specified how many people remain in the jail. The takeover prompted an immediate response from local, state and federal authorities. Bertie County Sheriff Tyrone Ruffin said there was no immediate threat to the general public. Windsor is located about 120 miles (190 kilometers) east of Raleigh. “Our top priority is the safety of our staff, inmates, and the surrounding community,” Ruffin said. A secure perimeter was established around the detention center and the public was asked to avoid the immediate area, Ruffin said. Join our commenting forum Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies Comments