The Tennessee Department of Correction says there have been 32 assaults on correctional officers in the last 28 days, with hospitalization required in three of the attacks.

State officials say the number of assaults are down from last year, but they weren't immediately able to produce supporting data.

The data comes amid a debate over prison safety concerns.

Prison administrators have said they plan to give current officers a $1,000 bonus before the end of the year as part of an effort to bolster retention among a department that corrections officers say has been severely understaffed.

Officers have said recent changes in pay and scheduling have made the job less desirable, driving officers away and forcing the remaining officers to work more shifts with less help.

Source:

Partner Station WMSR