BARAGA, MI— A former U.P. corrections officer has been charged with a felony after allegedly letting an inmate assault another officer.
On March 28, Shelby Pennock, 44, was working in a cell block in the Baraga Correctional Facility with another officer. While the other officer was performing a separate task, Pennock allegedly opened an inmate’s cell door, knowing her actions would result in the prisoner assaulting the other officer.
When the door opened, the inmate placed the other C.O. in a headlock and repeatedly struck him with closed-fist blows to his head and upper body. Eventually he, with assistance from other staff, was able to subdue the prisoner. He and Pennock, who was also assaulted, sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
Pennock is charged with assault of a prison employee. Her next court appearance is scheduled for August 11. She is no longer employed with the MDOC.
The inmate was charged with assault of a prison employee and possession of a weapon by a prisoner.
