Sgt. Ruben Thomas
Richard Franklin
Columbia Correctional Officer Killed by Inmate Serving Life Sentence
The Department of Corrections is confirming a correctional officer was killed in the line of duty March 18, 2012 at Columbia Correctional Institution.
The correctional officer killed in the line of duty: 6 year DC employee, 24 year old Sergeant Ruben Thomas. Witnesses say he was stabbed in the neck by inmate Richard Franklin with a handmade weapon.
Also, Correctional Officer William Brewer was assaulted in the incident. Brewer was taken to the hospital and has since been released. He will require further medical attention.
Inmate Franklin was convicted and sentenced to life for murder. He was received by the Department in 1995.
“The Department is mourning the loss of Sgt. Ruben Thomas. Sgt. Thomas is described as a solid and highly respected member of the Agency and will be remembered in the highest regard. Our condolences go out to his family”, said Florida Department of Corrections Secretary Ken Tucker. “His death and the wounding of Correctional Officer Brewer is another reminder about the danger Department personnel face every day on the job, and reminds us of the seriousness of our profession.”
The Department has no further comment at this time and more details are not yet being released as the Florida Department of Law Enforcement is taking over the investigation per normal protocol.
Statement from Governor Rick Scott Regarding Death of Sgt. Ruben Thomas
Tallahassee, Fla. – “I am saddened to learn of the tragic death of Sgt. Ruben Thomas last night at the Columbia Correctional Institute annex. My deepest condolences go to his family and fellow correctional officers in Columbia County and across Florida. A second officer, William Brewer, was also assaulted during the attack, and I pray for his quick recovery.
”It is always troubling when members of our law enforcement community lose their lives in the line of duty. These brave men and women dedicate themselves each day to ensure Florida is a safe place to live. We all need to remember the sacrifices and heroic efforts of our officers.”
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