McLean, VA (October 15, 2024) - The deadliest year for correctional officers was 1971, when 17 were killed in the line of duty, including seven during the infamous Attica, New York prison riot. It began on Thursday, September 9, 1971, at approximately 8:50 a.m. Inmates gained control of the facility in a well-planned, violent attack against prison employees. The prisoners took 50 correctional officers and other civilian employees hostage. After four days of negotiations failed, a rescue force stormed the facility on September 13. When it ended, 32 inmates were dead, along with 10 of the hostages, including seven correctional officers: Edward T. Cunningham, John J. D’Archangelo Jr., Richard J. Lewis, William E. Quinn, Carl W. Valone, Ronald D. Werner and Harrison W. Whalen.
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