Inmates Assault Correctional Officers at Southern New Mexico Facility

Three inmates at the Southern New Mexico Correctional Facility have been charged following an attack on correctional staff on February 23. The incident occurred around 2:40 p.m. when Cody Ruiz, James Ibarra-Garcia, and Casz Curtis Abeita were disruptive during a staff meeting, leading to their recreational time being suspended. Ruiz initiated the attack on Sergeant Braden Foremaster, who sustained severe injuries including a broken jaw, while Officer Aaron Villegas-Fierro was also attacked when he intervened. The injured officers were hospitalized, with Foremaster later airlifted to a facility in El Paso. The inmates face multiple serious charges, highlighting ongoing safety concerns in correctional facilities.

Key Details: • Incident occurred on February 23 at 2:40 p.m. • Sergeant Braden Foremaster suffered a broken jaw and was airlifted to El Paso. • Officer Aaron Villegas-Fierro sustained minor injuries. • Inmates face multiple counts of aggravated battery and conspiracy.