Former Michigan correctional officer convicted of assaulting inmate

(CBS) – A former Michigan correctional officer has been sentenced to one year of probation for attacking an inmate at the Isabella County Jail, the state Attorney General’s Office said.

Christopher Cluley, 48, of Mount Pleasant, pleaded no contest to charges of aggravated assault and willful negligence. As part of his plea agreement, Cluley signed an affidavit of revocation of his license and an agreement not to reapply for license as a correctional officer.

He must also undergo an anger management program.

State officials said in April 2020 that Cluley grabbed the inmate and shoved him against the cell door before shoving him against the wall and then to the ground. An X-ray showed the inmate suffered a fracture in his left knee.

Officials said the incident occurred after a verbal altercation between the inmate and another correctional officer.

Cluley was placed on administrative leave pending the completion of the investigation by the Isabella County Sheriff’s Office. The investigation was later turned over to the Michigan State Police and the Attorney General’s Office.

“Thanks to the work of the Isabella County Sheriff, the Michigan State Police and our Public Integrity Unit, Mr. Cluley has been permanently barred from working as a correctional officer in our state and can no longer harm inmates,” Attorney General Dana Nessel said in a statement. “My office remains committed to ensuring that officers who violate their oath to protect and serve are held accountable.”