A 28-year-old prisoner named Shane McMillan is suspected of stabbing Larry Nassar, the disgraced former sports doctor, at a federal penitentiary in Florida. According to a person familiar with the matter, McMillan claims that Nassar provoked the attack by making a lewd comment while they were watching a Wimbledon tennis match on TV. The incident took place in Nassar’s cell at the United States Penitentiary Coleman.
McMillan, who has a history of violent offenses, allegedly attacked Nassar with a makeshift weapon, stabbing him multiple times in the neck, chest, and back. Four other inmates intervened and pulled McMillan off of Nassar. Correctional officers responded to the scene and provided life-saving measures to Nassar before he was transported to a hospital. As of Wednesday, Nassar remained in stable condition, but he suffered injuries including a collapsed lung.
Cell doors in most federal prison units are typically open during the day, allowing prisoners to move around freely within the facility. Since the attack occurred inside Nassar’s cell, it was not captured on surveillance cameras that primarily cover common areas and corridors.
According to the person familiar with the matter, McMillan, who was previously convicted of assaulting a correctional officer in Louisiana and attempting to stab another inmate to death in Colorado, stated that he attacked Nassar after the former doctor made a comment about wanting to see women playing in the Wimbledon match.
The incident highlights ongoing challenges within the federal Bureau of Prisons, including violence, staffing shortages, and the inability to ensure the safety of high-profile inmates. The Bureau of Prisons claims to have adequate staffing at the prison where the stabbing occurred, but documents obtained by the AP reveal that one-third of correctional officer positions remain unfilled.
An investigation into the attack has been launched by authorities, including the Mounties, BC Coroners Service, and BC Parks. Anyone with relevant information about the incident is urged to contact the RCMP in Whistler.
Larry Nassar is serving a lengthy prison sentence for sexually abusing athletes, including college and Olympic gymnastics stars, as well as possessing explicit images of children. This is the second time he has been assaulted while in federal custody.
The Bureau of Prisons acknowledges the need to increase staffing levels and improve security procedures to ensure the safety of inmates and correctional staff. They are actively recruiting officers and implementing incentives to retain workers.
Shane McMillan is currently scheduled for release from prison in May 2046. However, if he is charged and convicted for attacking Nassar, his release date may change. McMillan’s criminal history includes convictions for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, assaulting a correctional officer, and attempted murder of a fellow inmate.
The investigation into the stabbing incident is ongoing as authorities seek to determine the events leading up to the attack.