Sheriff Deputies Stage Fighting With Inmates Then Get Fired - Is This A Big Deal?

FAIRFIELD COUNTY, Ohio — Two employees at the Fairfield County Jail resigned and another was terminated after surveillance video captured three inmates involved in a wrestling match with a correction officer while others watched.

The sheriff confirmed no one was hurt and that the inmates and the employees shook hands after the matches.

"If you watch the video, at the end they shake hands and hug. I'm not aware of too many assaults that end in that fashion," Lape said.

Lape told 10TV the incident happened on June 28 but it was not made known to administration until five days later. Three employees were placed on administrative leave and had predisciplinary hearings scheduled.

Lape said deputy Shawn Pettit and correction officer Kyle Archibald resigned before their hearing while correction officer Landon Talbott was terminated following his hearing.

The incident lasted about 10 minutes and happened in the confinement area of the jail.

"It is unacceptable conduct and will not be tolerated. It brings a negative focus on the Fairfield County Sheriff's Office and the men and women who go to work every day and try to do the right thing," Lape told 10TV.

Lape said Talbot filed a grievance over his termination.

The Lancaster Eagle-Gazette reported a fourth employee, correction officer Kayla Doss, was connected to the incident and she was given a 10-day paid suspension.

Lape said the Fairfield County Prosecutor's Office declined to pursue criminal charges because no one was injured.

The sheriff's office said the inmates have been transferred to state prison.