When an inmate at the Liberty Correctional Institution in Bristol refused to return to his dorm room, two officers decided to punish him in their own way.
The Inmate
An inmate, whose name was redacted from official reports, asked to be placed in protective custody because his cellmate was making threatening remarks to him.
The Officers
Capt. Steven Cloud and Sgt. Jeffery Davis allegedly made light of the situation, laughing at the inmate’s request. They ordered him to return to his dorm immediately.
Refusal
The inmate continued to refuse the demand. The officers, growing frustrated brought him to a supply closet where they strip-searched him.
Sprayed
While the strip-search was being performed, Sgt. Davis reached around and pulled out a chemical spray. He sprayed the inmate with the chemicals directly in the face.
Avoidance
In order to block out the spray, the inmate quickly turned away from it. However, Davis began to then spray his ear.
Wear It
Capt. Cloud then told the inmate to “wear it” for 15 minutes. They then locked him in the closet without handcuffs on.
Pleas
The inmate continued to beg with the officers, pleading to be let out of the closet. There is no consensus on how long the inmate was left locked in the closet.
Fabricated Tales
The officers then came up with a cover story, reporting that the inmate had been aggressive toward them, prompting the use of force.
Cloud’s Charges
Capt. Steven Cloud was charged with official misconduct and submitting a false report.
Sgt. Davis
Davis was charged with malicious battery, official misconduct and filing a false report.