Richmond, Virginia – A tragedy unfolded in a Virginia prison when a K-9 heroically sacrificed its life to protect a correctional officer during a violent gang-related attack. The Virginia Department of Corrections reported that Rivan, a 5-year-old Belgian Malinois, was fatally injured while trying to stop a brutal assault by inmates affiliated with the MS-13 gang at Sussex I State Prison.
According to prison officials, three inmates from MS-13 assaulted another inmate within a housing unit, with one inmate overseeing the attack. Corrections Officer Kharmishia Phillip Fields and K-9 Rivan intervened to halt the violence and shield the individuals involved. While Rivan sustained severe injuries, Fields emerged unscathed, thanks to the canine’s bravery and training.
Director Chad Dotson of the Virginia Department of Corrections expressed sorrow over Rivan’s loss while honoring the dog’s selfless act, emphasizing that the K-9’s sacrifice potentially saved two lives during the ordeal. The department did not disclose the identities of the involved inmates but revealed that they were all illegal immigrants and MS-13 members with past convictions for serious offenses.
In response to the incident, Governor Glenn Youngkin vowed to hold the perpetrators accountable for their barbaric actions, particularly targeting the MS-13 members responsible for the assault. The prison system announced its intent to pursue legal action against the inmates involved and refrained from sharing additional details as investigations continue.
Rivan, who had been in service since 2019 and would have turned 6 on April 30, will be remembered through a planned memorial service. The canine’s unwavering dedication to protecting others serves as a poignant reminder of the risks faced by corrections officers and their loyal companions in the line of duty. Such sacrifices underscore the dangers inherent in confronting criminal activity within correctional facilities, highlighting the importance of safety measures and support for those working in these challenging environments.