Malmsbury Youth Justice Centre: Police investigate attack on two staff

A man has been hospitalised after an alleged gang ambush on staff at the youth prison.

Police are investigating an alleged attack at the youth prison. Picture: Rob Leeson

Police are investigating a violent jailhouse ambush where a gang of youths allegedly attacked and injured two staff members in Malmsbury.

Victoria Police are probing the alleged assault which unfolded at Malmsbury youth prison about 8pm on Saturday.

Two male staff members were assaulted by inmates at the Mollison St facility.

“The inmates were immediately secured,” a Victoria Police statement said.

“One of the staff members was taken to hospital and treated for minor injuries. The investigation is ongoing.”

Ambulance Victoria said: “A man in his 50s was taken to Bendigo Hospital in a stable condition with upper body injuries.”

One source said understaffing was a factor in what had happened.

A WorkSafe report has previously linked understaffing to a staff assault.

As in the adult system, short staffing causes more lockdowns and generates a more volatile environment among inmates.

A recent spate of attacks in maximum security Barwon Prison were blamed on a surge on lockdowns.

A Victorian government spokeswoman confirmed police were investigating.

“Violence toward staff is totally unacceptable,” the department said.

“Last night’s incident was contained quickly.

“Laws are now in place that strengthen consequences for young people who assault youth justice custodial workers, including a presumption that if convicted, they will serve the additional sentence on top of an existing period of detention.”

In Victoria injuring a prison officer carries a mandatory six month jail sentence.