ELMIRA, N.Y. (WENY) -- Four Correctional Officers from the Elmira Correctional Facility had to be hospitalized this month as a result of two separate physical encounters with inmates. Details of the incidents were released by the New York State Correctional Officers and Police Benevolent Association, Inc., as part of their campaign to repeal the HALT Act.  

According to the NYSCOPBA press release the first incident took place on Sept. 15th when two officers removed the restraints of an inmate who then began to attack another inmate who was seated at the time. After a struggle with the initial two C.O.s, both of whom were injured in the fracas, the inmate is alleged to have bitten a third C.O. while being transported from the site.  

“Force was needed to get the inmate to release the bite,” said the press release. 

After the incident a search of the inmate revealed an improvised weapon made out of a sharpened toothbrush hidden in his pants.  

The second incident took place on Sept. 22nd when an inmate refused orders from a C.O., attempted to punch them and then tried to run away.  

“The inmate attempted to run from the officer and was grabbed in a body hold.  During the struggle, the inmate struck the officer in the left side of the face,” said the press release.  

All four officers injured during the two incidents were transferred to Arnot Ogden Medical Center for treatment and were unable to return to duty as a result.  

Both inmates face disciplinary charges in the attacks. 

“Before an officer gets killed in one of these attacks, the state legislature has to repeal or amend the HALT Act, or they will have blood on their hands when it occurs.” said Kenny Gold, NYSCOPBA Western Region Vice President, in a prepared statement. 

WENY is attempting to gather more information and will update this article as it becomes available.