Guard Confesses to Beating Florida Inmate
January 28, 2002
The case of four Florida State Prison guards accused of inmate abuse took an interesting turn last week as prosecutors released an incriminating videotaped confession from a corrections officer who admitted taking part in the beating of inmate Frank Valdes. On the tape, Raymon Hanson, who has agreed to testify for the state in exchange for immunity, claims he and several other guards "beat, punched, and kicked" Valdes on the day of his death. An electric stun gun was also allegedly used on the prisoner's head.
State Attorney Rod Smith made the video in January 2000. Hanson, who currently lives out of state due to fear of retaliation, is expected to take the stand this week. Hanson says Valdes had threatened to kill an officer the day before the fatal beating and that guards went to his cell to "teach him a lesson." Hanson admits Valdes did not resist or provoke the officers when they arrived at his cell.
-- Article Courtesy of InjuryBoard.com
More ...
- Death Row Inmates Ordered to Pay
- Guard in Sexual Relationship With Inmate Arrested
- Prison Guards Indicted On Abuse Charges
.