Pennsylvania Prison Sergeant Suspended After Assault Charges
Sergeant Zachary Fleck faces misdemeanor charges following an alleged assault on an inmate at SCI Benner.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Law Enforcement
The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections has suspended Sergeant Zachary Fleck without pay following misdemeanor charges of simple assault and official oppression. The charges stem from an alleged incident at SCI Benner in Centre County that resulted in a hospitalized inmate suffering an eye injury.
Why it matters
The case highlights concerns regarding the use of force within the state prison system and the oversight of correctional officers. Authorities are now moving forward with legal proceedings against the officer following the investigation into the conduct at the facility.
Sergeant Zachary Fleck currently faces misdemeanor charges for simple assault and official oppression. The 33-year-old officer has been suspended without pay while the legal process continues in Centre County.
The players
Zachary Fleck
He is a 33-year-old sergeant previously employed by the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections.
Pennsylvania Department of Corrections
This state agency is responsible for the operation and oversight of all correctional facilities within Pennsylvania.
SCI Benner
Located in Centre County, this is a state correctional institution where the alleged assault took place.
The details
Video evidence reportedly captures the officer pepper-spraying an inmate twice while the individual stood against a wall. The footage allegedly shows the officer punching and kneeing the victim more than a dozen times during the altercation.
Timeline
The alleged prison assault occurred on July 22, 2026.
Legal Context
The charges filed against the officer represent a direct application of the Pennsylvania Crimes Code statutes on official oppression. This case highlights how state legal frameworks address the abuse of authority and the use of excessive force within correctional facilities.
The suspension of the officer ensures he is no longer in contact with the prison population during the ongoing legal investigation. Local residents may see continued media interest as the judicial process proceeds in Centre County courts.
The takeaway
This incident serves as a reminder of the strict legal standards governing force application in state facilities. Transparency in reporting such allegations remains a central component of maintaining institutional accountability.
Further reading
Find more updates regarding Law Enforcement actions across the state.
