Several San Benito County Correctional Officers Injured in Jail Altercation
HOLLISTER, CA — An incident at the San Benito County Jail on Monday September 8th resulted in several correctional staff members sustaining injuries. The event, which occurred around 11:30 a.m., involved an individual in custody who engaged in an altercation with jail personnel.
The individual, Saitia Faaifo, a 36-year-old man from the Hollister and San Jose area, was arrested on September 7, 2025. His arrest followed a carjacking, a pursuit with the Hollister Police Department, and charges of resisting arrest. Following his arrest, Mr. Faaifo was placed on a 5150 Welfare and Institutions Code hold.
According to a report from the San Benito County Sheriff’s Office, Mr. Faaifo had been making threats of self-harm while in custody and had requested to be moved to a safety cell. As correctional officers were in the process of moving him to the cell, he reportedly charged at staff. The individual was tased twice but remained combative. Four additional deputies were called to the scene, and a WRAP restraint device system was used to bring him under control. The altercation lasted for approximately two to three minutes.
Multiple correctional officers and a sergeant were injured, with injuries including a concussion, broken bones, and lacerations. They were transported for medical care, and their conditions are being monitored. The suspect did not sustain any injuries and has been offered mental health services.
In a statement, Sheriff Eric Taylor commented on the event. “This incident underscores the daily dangers our correctional officers face, often with limited resources,” Sheriff Taylor said. He noted that the jail is operating below recommended staffing levels and stated his belief that some injuries might have been prevented with adequate staffing. He also expressed concern for the injured staff members and wished them a swift recovery.
