A federal prison supervisor in North Carolina has been convicted of a felony after instructing a correctional officer to physically punish an inmate, bypassing traditional disciplinary protocols.
Civil Rights Violation at Federal Correctional Institute Butner
Daniel Mitchell, a former Federal Bureau of Prisons lieutenant, pleaded guilty to a felony charge of conspiring to violate civil rights, the U.S. Department of Justice announced earlier this week. The incident occurred at the Federal Correctional Institute Butner Medium II in Granville County, which houses over 1,600 inmates.
The case stemmed from a December 8, 2021, incident in which Mitchell ordered an officer to “teach (the inmate) a lesson” after the inmate allegedly exposed himself and engaged in inappropriate behavior in front of a correctional officer.
From Policy to Punishment
Typically, misconduct in the facility is addressed through written reports and counseling. However, investigators say Mitchell and another officer decided traditional methods were inadequate. Mitchell allegedly instructed the officer to “tune” the inmate up, using language understood as a directive for physical punishment.
The inmate was taken to another cell, where the officer reportedly beat and kicked him until other officers intervened. The assault aggravated a preexisting back condition, causing the inmate to experience spasms and requiring medical attention.
Investigation and Charges
An eyewitness reported the incident, prompting an investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Inspector General. Both Mitchell and the conspiring officer admitted to planning and carrying out the physical punishment.
The U.S. Department of Justice has not disclosed whether charges were filed against the other officer involved.
U.S. Attorney Condemns Actions
“Corrections officers work in dangerous environments with limited resources and deserve our respect and gratitude,” said U.S. Attorney Michael F. Easley Jr. “But officers acting outside the law to injure an inmate erodes the rule of law, violates civil rights, and puts other officers’ lives in jeopardy.”
Sentencing Scheduled for March
Mitchell faces up to 10 years in prison for his role in the incident. His sentencing is scheduled for late March. An attorney representing Mitchell declined to comment on the case.
This conviction underscores the importance of accountability and adherence to the rule of law in correctional facilities, where abuses of power can have severe consequences for inmates and the integrity of the justice system.
