Agency News
Former VADOC Inmate Charged for Assault on Three Corrections Officers
March 26, 2024
A former Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) inmate has been charged with the felony assault of three corrections officers at State Farm Correctional Center.
Inmate Ronald Edward Whitehead, 35, is charged with three counts of assault and battery on a correctional officer. The charges were filed in Powhatan County Circuit Court.
On the morning of January 31, Whitehead became combative after staff observed him in an unauthorized area and instructed him to report to the watch office. Whitehead later punched officers multiple times after he was physically placed on the ground to gain compliance. The proper level of force was used to ultimately bring Whitehead under control.
Three staff members received treatment at a local hospital, with one employee sustaining a dislocated knee from the assault.
Whithead’s original sentence with the VADOC ended on Friday, March 22. On his release date, Whitehead was placed into the custody of the Powhatan County Sheriff’s Office.
“Violence against Virginia Department of Corrections employees will not be tolerated,” said VADOC Director Chad Dotson. “I thank the staff members who responded to this situation for their courage. I wish them well in their recovery. Additionally, I sincerely thank Commonwealth’s Attorney Rob Cerullo and the Powhatan County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office for pursuing these charges. We will continue to do everything in our power to support these efforts.”