Exclusive: Video reveals brutal reality inside NSW prisons
Prisons are built to house the worst of the worst with thousands of violent offenders under guard.
Seven News can show just how ugly it can get on the inside through an exclusive, graphic video.
It shows how quickly brawls can erupt but also how brave many of those who work there need to be.
Video shows a Friday night just before Christmas, but the inmates at Wellington prison were feeling anything but festive.
A brawl erupts between two prisoners, with others joining the fracas.
One man swings from the rails to get involved, rushing into the melee under the stairs which spills past men slapping each other.
“Ned Kelly was a gentleman compared to these blokes,” NSW Corrections Minister David Elliott said.
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“These inmates are there for a reason. Prisons are bad places; don’t go there.”
The footage shows senior correction officer Brian Smith rushing into the middle of the brawl, bravely breaking it up before his colleagues join him.
“Fortunately, staff were not injured but it’s a very serious incident,” Corrective Services Commissioners Peter Severin said.
“We will internally discipline the culprits.”
Police attended but the victims, who escaped with minor injuries, did not press charges.
While inmates face punishment, the brave guard who helped stop the brawl has been recommended for a special commendation in recognition of his selfless work.
“I’m forever grateful for the work of this particular prison officer – and all our prison officers do – at a time of the year when people are thinking about Christmas parties and family gatherings, these people are dealing with the worst of the worst,” Mr Elliott said.
