Prison officer stabbed at Enner Mark Prison near Horsens in Denmark

In a chilling incident reminiscent of an American prison film, a prison officer at Enner Mark Prison near Horsens was repeatedly stabbed in the neck with a sharpened toothbrush in February 2023. The attack was carried out by a 24-year-old man who has since been charged with attempted murder. Following the attack, prison authorities have changed the materials used for inmate toothbrushes, swapping plastic for bent rubber to reduce the risk of similar assaults.

Ian Gunthel, head of security for the Correctional Services, noted that such violent incidents are rare but have a profound impact on staff and the organization. Following the assault, it was revealed that the gang division where the incident occurred was understaffed at the time. However, Gunthel emphasized that the staffing shortage could not be directly linked to the attack, highlighting that personnel adjustments are made based on security assessments amidst a shortage of uniformed staff and an increase in inmates.

Experts suggest that while structural changes in prison facilities may be needed, the solution lies primarily in enhancing interpersonal relationships between staff and inmates. Linda Kjær Minke, a criminologist, pointed out that tensions can escalate over time due to various frustrations, such as denied visits or release requests.

Anne Okkels, also a criminologist, warned that increasing penalties without addressing underlying issues may worsen the situation for staff who are already working diligently in challenging conditions. She urges policymakers to consider alternative approaches to managing gang-related activities within prisons.