A prison officer was slashed with a knife when he attempted to defend an inmate during an altercation at Portlaoise prison on Friday evening.
The officer is said to have come between the two prisoners during an incident at around 7pm yesterday evening, leading to one of the men slashing him across the hands and lower arms with a shiv he was carrying.
Independent.ie report that the altercation started after one of the inmates accused the other man of an attack on a disabled family member, and the target of last night's attack had his life spared thanks to the quick actions of the prison officer.
The brave officer is currently receiving treatment in hospital in Portlaoise.
If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Kildare Now editorial team. Between 9am and 5pm Monday to Sunday please call 045 409350. Between 5pm and midnight please call or text 086 729 0010. Or you can email content@kildarenow.com at any time.