Prison guard investigated after alleged assault

A prison guard is being investigated by police after allegedly assaulting a prisoner at Christchurch Men’s Prison. The prisoner was taken to hospital by ambulance after the incident on Thursday. He returned to the prison later on Thursday evening and was being monitored and provided with ongoing support, prison director Jo Harrex said. Police had been notified and were investigating. The Independent Corrections Inspectorate had also been notified. ‘‘Corrections will also carry out a full investigation and will ensure all evidence, including CCTV footage, is provided to police and the inspectorate,’’ Harrex said. ‘‘Wedemand a high standard of conduct and integrity from all employees, and if we find evidence our staff don’t meet the standards then we take appropriate action.’’