Seven officers from the Florida Department of Corrections are facing charges for their alleged involvement in a violent assault on an inmate at the Dade Correctional Institution in Miami-Dade County. The incident reportedly took place on April 5, according to arrest records.
Lieutenant Shentrica Clark, who oversees the prison's Transitional Care Unit, allegedly instructed other officers to bring inmate Christopher Castro, aged 30, to her office. As reported by NBC Miami, Castro believed Clark wanted to discuss an earlier incident where he was accused of threatening a guard with a knife. Instead, he was taken to a detention cell, where multiple officers allegedly beat him with kicks and punches while his hands were cuffed behind his back.
Following the assault, Castro was returned to his cell with visible facial bruises, bleeding, and scratches. Despite requesting emergency medical attention, his plea was denied, as indicated in court documents. During a shift change, Clark failed to inform another lieutenant about the use of force; however, the new lieutenant noticed the injuries during regular rounds and ordered Castro to be taken to the medical unit.
A subsequent inspection of the cell found bloodstains and splatters, with indications that the area had been recently cleaned, prompting authorities to file evidence tampering charges. Clark is now facing charges for tampering with physical evidence and failing to report the use of force.
Three sergeants—Richard Jackson, D’Andre Hill, and Freddie Morgan—along with two officers—Jordy Calero and Travon Norman—have been charged with using force or assaulting a detainee, perjury, and failing to report the use of force. Captain Jochen Anglin also faces charges for perjury and neglecting to report the use of force.
This case has reignited discussions about the prevalence of violence in Florida's prisons and the lack of transparency and accountability among correctional officers.
Key Questions on Florida Prison Violence and Accountability
What charges are the officers facing in this case?
The officers are facing charges that include the use of force or assault on a detainee, perjury, evidence tampering, and failure to report the use of force.
How did the authorities discover the assault on Christopher Castro?
The assault was discovered when a lieutenant, not informed of the previous use of force, noticed Castro's injuries during routine rounds and ordered him to the medical unit.
What evidence led to the charges of evidence tampering?
Authorities found bloodstains and signs that the cell had been recently cleaned, which led to charges of evidence tampering.