Prison staff member suspended, investigation launched into excessive use of force

A prison staff member has been suspended pending an investigation into a suspected excessive use of force. 

Nebraska Department of Correctional Services officials said the staff member, who works at the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution, was suspended Thursday after an incident with an inmate. 

“Force was necessary in the incident as the inmate was combative and aggressive,” TSCI Warden Brad Hansen said. “We are looking into whether the level of force used was appropriate.”

Further review of the incident, including video evidence, led to an investigation and the suspension of a second staff member. 

The incident is being reviewed internally and by the Nebraska State Patrol. 

“Our team members are trained in the appropriate use of force and expected to use the least amount of force necessary to gain or maintain control,” said Diane Sabatka-Rine, NDCS Chief of Operations. “Corrections staff members must be measured in their use of force and must demonstrate integrity in their use of control tactics. Any misuse of authority is not acceptable.”