SCI-Fayette inmate accused of injuring four guards
An inmate at the State Correctional Institution at Fayette in Luzerne Township was charged for allegedly assaulting four prison guards.
Val William Smith, 22, is charged with aggravated assault for allegedly causing injuries including a broken hand.
According to the affidavit of probable cause filed in his case, Smith became aggressive after medical staff sent him back because he did not have a pass about 7:30 a.m. Dec. 13. After he was ordered to return to his cell multiple times, he allegedly said he was about to “snap out on someone,” prompting corrections officers to restrain him and contact a lieutenant.
Corrections Officer Corey Huffine was hit multiple times in the face and head while attempting to restrain Smith, according to the affidavit. Sgt. Larry Ruvo and another officer attempted to stop the assault, and a lieutenant arrived and ordered Smith to be restrained. Smith was checked by medical staff and cleared.
Police said Huffine was taken to a hospital by ambulance and ordered to stay home from work until further notice. He suffered a broken hand and swelling and abrasions to the face. Ruvo was treated at MedExpress for injuries, and two other corrections officers returned to work after they were checked by medical staff, according to court documents.