A deputy at the Cayuga County Jail was violently attacked during morning rounds last month, prompting a grand jury indictment and a public warning from local authorities about rising threats inside custody facilities.
The inmate, identified as Harold J. Calkins, allegedly ambushed Deputy William Ruff on May 7 inside the jail using improvised contraband weapons and a chemical irritant. Calkins reportedly sprayed Ruff in the eyes before slashing and stabbing at his head and neck multiple times. The attack left Ruff with physical injuries that required emergency treatment at Auburn Memorial Hospital and ongoing care.
Calkins, 39, was already in custody at the time for unrelated parole violations and a charge of criminal possession of stolen property in the third degree. On Monday, he was arraigned on two counts of assault in the second degree following a grand jury indictment, according to the Cayuga County Sheriff’s Office. Judge Jon Budelmann ordered that Calkins be remanded to the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision pending his next court appearance.
“This incident highlights the growing risks faced by those who work in our custody facilities,” Sheriff Brian Schenck said. “We owe Deputy Ruff—and everyone who performs this challenging job—an immense debt of gratitude.”
Schenck confirmed that an immediate investigation was launched after the incident and praised the efforts of his Custody Division staff. He added that jail violence is becoming more frequent at both local and state levels.
To underscore the dangers deputies face, the sheriff included a video of the attack, photos of the improvised weapons used, and an image of one of the injuries inflicted. “It’s important that people see the reality of what these professionals face far too often,” Schenck said.
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