Officer Recovering After Stabbing by Inmate at Kern Valley State Prison; Attack Under Investigation as Attempted Homicide
KERN COUNTY, Calif. — A California corrections officer is recovering after a violent stabbing attack by an inmate inside Kern Valley State Prison over the weekend, authorities confirmed.
The incident occurred just before 6 p.m. on Saturday, April 26, 2025, when inmate Malcolm Scott allegedly used an improvised weapon to stab a corrections officer in the neck, according to a statement from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR).
A Swift Response to a Dangerous Attack
Prison staff acted quickly to restrain Scott and render emergency aid to the wounded officer. The officer was immediately transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Thankfully, officials later reported that the officer received care and has since been released from the hospital.
“This could have been a far more tragic outcome,” said a CDCR spokesperson. “Thanks to the rapid response of staff and medical personnel, the officer is expected to make a full recovery.”
Details of the Incident
Authorities say Scott, who is already serving time at Kern Valley State Prison, fashioned an improvised weapon — often referred to as a “shank” — and used it to launch a sudden and brutal assault. The motive behind the attack is still under investigation.
Following the incident, Scott was immediately placed in restricted housing, a higher-security area designed to limit inmate movement and reduce further risk to staff and others.
The CDCR’s Office of Internal Affairs and the Investigative Services Unit are leading a full investigation into the assault, which is being treated as an attempted homicide. Additional charges against Scott are expected to be filed.
Heightened Concerns Over Prison Safety
This latest attack highlights ongoing concerns about violence within California’s correctional facilities, especially involving improvised weapons made from everyday prison materials.
“Any time an officer is attacked, it reminds us of the real and daily dangers correctional staff face,” said Glen Stailey, president of the California Correctional Peace Officers Association. “We are grateful this officer survived and we will continue to advocate for improved safety measures across all state institutions.”
Kern Valley State Prison, located in Delano, houses some of the state’s most dangerous offenders and has historically dealt with incidents of inmate violence.
What’s Next
As the investigation continues, prison officials say security protocols have been heightened across the facility. Additional searches are underway to locate any other potential contraband or weapons.
Meanwhile, support services are being offered to the injured officer and his family.
“Our thoughts are with the officer and their loved ones during this difficult time,” CDCR officials said in a statement. “Their bravery and resilience are a testament to the professionalism of all our staff working in these challenging environments.”
Authorities urge anyone with information related to the attack to come forward as investigators work to piece together a full timeline of events.
This remains an ongoing investigation, and more details are expected to be released in the coming days.