Each month there are hundreds of inmate-on-staff attacks in CDCR. (396 in June, 452 in May, 407 in April 2025 for example) Although we think every staff attack is a big deal, and should be reported publicly, The Toughest Beat does not have the resources to report on every staff attack. We try to focus our reporting to the most violent incidents.
We do sincerely appreciate the information we get from you, our readers. We have received many questions regarding a recent attack at Calipatria State Prison last Saturday:
On Saturday, August 16, several inmates attempted to attack staff at Calipatria State Prison.
At about 1130 hours, a housing using officer was dealing with an uncooperative inmate named Alfred Ortega (F77972). When attempting to place Ortega in restraints, the inmate attacked staff using his fists to hit a correctional sergeant repeatedly. Staff were ultimately able to subdue Ortega and place him in restraints.
Inmate Ortega is a member of the Mexican Mafia and gang politics require other inmates to act when they believe protection is needed. Two gang-affiliated inmates, Arroyo (G65360) and Vital (BT4301) attempted to run into the housing unit and reportedly attack staff. Through the quick use of pepper spray, these inmates were halted before they could cause further problems.
Sources say the Mexican Mafia affiliated inmates have been yelling threats at custody staff since this incident.
The sergeant attacked by Inmate Ortega was sent to an outside hospital for his injuries.
Stay safe and watch your partner’s 6.
thetoughestbeat
Bring back the SHU!!!!!
Coward