ELMIRA, N.Y. (WENY) -- A 24-year-old inmate, who is serving eight years for gang assault, attacked a corrections officer by punching him repeatedly in the face at the Elmira Correctional Facility, last week, on July 21st, according to the New York State Correctional Officers & Police Benevolent Association. 

Police said the officer opened the inmate's cell for his morning medication and then the inmate left the cell. Police said the officer approached the inmate and was then struck several times in the face. The officer immediately defended himself to stop the attack and, with help from another officer, the inmate was able to get handcuffed and detained, police said.  

Police said both officers were treated by medical staff at the facility. The officer, who was attacked, was treated for swelling and bleeding from his nose and pain to his neck. He was transported to Arnot Ogden Medical Center for further treatment