Rikers Island correction officer slashed in face multiple times by inmates

RIKERS ISLAND, N.Y. -- (WPIX) -- A Rikers Island correction officer was attacked by two inmates and slashed in the face multiple times Thursday afternoon.

Sources close to the investigation tell PIX11 News the attack happened in an area with only six inmates. When the correction officer unlocked the door, an inmate grabbed him from behind while another slashed him in the face.

The officer was taken to New York Hospital of Queens for treatment. His condition was not immediately released.

NYC Department of Correction made this statement about the incident:

“Today at around 4:30 p.m. on Rikers Island a Correction Officer was the victim of an unprovoked assault with a weapon. He is being treated at a hospital. Safety is Commissioner Ponte's top priority and he has zero tolerance for assaults on staff. The Department is seeking re-arrest of any inmate involved.”