New York guard charged with hitting inmate, breaking jaw

MALONE, N.Y. – A New York state prison guard has been charged with hitting an inmate in the face, breaking the man’s jaw.

State police say they arrested 47-year-old Thomas Agans, of Brasher Falls, on Monday and charged him with one felony count of assault following his indictment by a Franklin County grand jury.

Troopers say the arrest comes after an investigation by the state Department of Corrections and Community Supervision into an incident that occurred at the medium-security Franklin Correctional Facility in Malone last December.

Police say the prison sergeant struck an inmate, causing a compound fracture to the man’s jaw.

Agans was released under the supervision of the county probation office. Prison officials say the 17-year veteran is suspended without pay.

It couldn’t be determined if he has a lawyer.

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community?

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.