Richmond, Virginia – A K-9 unit in a Virginia state prison was tragically killed while bravely protecting a correctional officer during a violent attack involving suspected gang members, according to state prison officials.
The 5-year-old Belgian Malinois, named Rivan, succumbed to injuries sustained during an altercation where inmates affiliated with the MS-13 gang attacked another prisoner inside the Sussex I State Prison. The incident occurred as Corrections Officer Kharmishia Phillip Fields and K-9 Rivan were on duty and swiftly responded to intervene.
Despite being violently and repeatedly stabbed and kicked by the assailants, Rivan’s actions helped stop the attack and protect those involved. While Rivan’s injuries proved fatal, Officer Phillip Fields, a four-year veteran, emerged unharmed due to her training and the courageous efforts of her K-9 partner, the Virginia Department of Corrections explained.
Authorities did not disclose the identities of the inmates involved, but confirmed that at least three were verified members of MS-13, all of whom were in the country illegally at the time of their arrest and subsequent incarceration. Their charges ranged from first-degree homicide to attempted rape and possession of child sexual abuse images.
Virginia Department of Corrections Director Chad Dotson highlighted the sacrifice made by Rivan, emphasizing that the K-9’s actions potentially saved the lives of both Officer Phillip Fields and the inmate under attack. The department vowed to pursue prosecution of the inmates to the fullest extent of the law, withholding further details pending an ongoing investigation.
Governor Glenn Youngkin condemned the actions of MS-13, promising that the individuals responsible would be held accountable for their barbaric behavior. Meanwhile, preparations are underway for a memorial service to honor Rivan, who would have turned 6 years old on April 30 and had been a valued member of the department since 2019.