Aryan Brotherhood Leader Accused in Attack on Two California Prison Officers
Sacramento, CA – Ronald D. Yandell, a reputed leader of the Aryan Brotherhood prison gang, is facing accusations of attempted homicide after allegedly attacking two correctional officers at the California State Prison in Sacramento, authorities announced on Tuesday.
The incident occurred on the morning of November 24 as officers were escorting Yandell back to his cell following a medical appointment at the prison’s health services building. According to officials, Yandell launched an unprovoked assault on the officers, using a makeshift weapon.
The officers suffered serious injuries but are expected to recover. They were transported to a local hospital for treatment, and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) has since increased security measures within the facility.
Yandell, 60, is a high-profile inmate who has long been identified as a leader within the Aryan Brotherhood, a violent white supremacist prison gang. He is already serving a life sentence for murder and has been implicated in numerous gang-related crimes both inside and outside prison walls.
This latest incident adds to Yandell’s extensive criminal history. In 2019, he was charged alongside other Aryan Brotherhood members in a sprawling federal case involving multiple murders, drug trafficking, and other violent crimes orchestrated from behind bars.
CDCR officials emphasized their commitment to ensuring the safety of prison staff and expressed their support for the injured officers. “Attacks on our staff are unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” a CDCR spokesperson said in a statement. “We will work closely with law enforcement to ensure that justice is served.”
The case has been referred to the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office for further investigation and possible prosecution. If convicted on the new charges, Yandell could face additional penalties, although his current life sentence without the possibility of parole already ensures he will remain in custody for the rest of his life.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about gang violence within California’s prisons, particularly involving powerful groups like the Aryan Brotherhood, which maintain extensive influence despite efforts to disrupt their operations. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the attack and any potential connections to gang-related activity.
