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DOC caseworker attacked by inmate speaks out

Caseworker: “I don’t know why I’m here today. I just thank the Lord that I am.”

By Michael Konopasek
News9

LEXINGTON, Oklahoma — She was thrown to the ground and severely beaten by a convicted rapist. For the first time, a Department of Corrections caseworker is publicly talking about her near-death experience.

Darla Cowan, a 14-year veteran of the DOC, was assaulted for roughly 15 minutes before prison guards were able to help. A union representing DOC workers said the attack proves more prison guards are needed.

Most of the guards at the Joseph Harp Correctional Center in Lexington work 12-hour shifts. More competitive salaries will help solve the problem, according to union representatives.

"[He] grabbed me around the throat, knocked me to the ground,” Cowan said. “I don’t know why I’m here today. I just thank the Lord that I am.”

Full story: Department Of Corrections Caseworker Attacked By Inmate Speaks Out

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