TRCI Housing Unit Returns to Normal Operations - 11/17/08 >Umatilla, Oregon. Two Rivers Correctional Institution's (TRCI) Housing Unit 9 returned to normal operations this morning. Progressive transition to normal operations began on Sunday, November 18, 2008.

Eleven inmates have been placed in the Disciplinary Segregation Unit pending potential disciplinary action for participating in the fights, which occurred on November 13, 2008. The incident does not appear to have been a planned event and started with a disagreement between two inmates.

Don Mills, Superintendent of the medium-custody prison was pleased with staff response to the incident, the progress of the investigation and the successful return to normal operations in the housing unit. He appreciated "all of the hard work that has gone into maintaining a safe and secure institution for both staff and inmates."

TRCI Staff Respond to Inmate Fight on Housing Unit, Unit still on Lockdown - 11/14/08 >Umatilla, Oregon. On Thursday, November 13, 2008 at approximately 5:15 p.m. during the evening meal, inmates on Unit 9 engaged in multiple fights at the Two Rivers Correctional Institution (TRCI). Staff responded and stopped the fights. As a result, nine inmates were placed in the Disciplinary Segregation Unit. No staff or inmate injuries were reported. No property damage was reported. The Oregon State Police have been notified.

The housing unit remains on lockdown status to ensure the safety of all staff and inmates pending the results of the investigation. Normal operations continue throughout the rest of the institution. Regular visiting hours will remain in effect at the institution over the weekend. Visitors may call the facility to check on the status of inmates who are, or were, housed in Unit 9 before they visit TRCI.

According to Don Mills, Superintendent, "Unit 9 inmates receive their meals in their cells and continue to have access to other activities such as Health Services, mail, legal, etc. The fights are being investigated to determine the cause. It is not known at this time whether this was an individual or group conflict."