LIVE OAK, Fla. — The Florida Department of Corrections (FDC) announced the sentencing of an inmate for an attack on a correctional officer at Suwannee Correctional Institution. In November 2017, inmate Brian Kirsch (S09482) approached an officer and attacked him with an improvised weapon, stabbing the officer multiple times. Staff responded and ultimately subdued the inmate and recovered the weapon. Following the attack, the officer recovered from the sustained injuries and returned to their post to resume duties as an FDC officer.
On March 4, 2019, in a Suwannee County courtroom, inmate Kirsch plead guilty to attempted murder with a deadly weapon and possession of contraband and was sentenced to 25 years.
Secretary Mark S. Inch said, “Every day officers across Florida go willingly into harm’s way in fulfillment of our mission. We commend the bravery and fortitude displayed by this officer during and after the attack, and we are proud to recognize the responding officers and staff at Suwannee CI. We also thank our Office of the Inspector General and State Attorneys for the exceptional work in ensuring this inmate was charged and convicted for his actions.”
FDC acknowledges the support and assistance provided by the Office of Inspector General, State Attorney Jeffery A. Siegmeister and Assistant State Attorney Sheena H. Rickerson of the 3rd Judicial Circuit of Florida.
