September 9, 2025 – HOLLISTER, CA – San Benito County Sheriff’s Office officials report that on Monday, September 8, 2025, at approximately 11:30 a.m., an incident occurred inside the San Benito County Jail involving an in-custody individual who attacked correctional staff.

The suspect, identified as 36-year-old Saitia Faaifo, a transient man from San Jose, had been arrested on September 7, 2025, following a carjacking, a pursuit with the Hollister Police Department, and charges for resisting arrest. He was also placed on a 5150 Welfare and Institutions Code hold after being deemed a danger to himself or others. While in custody, Mr. Faaifo continued making threats of self-harm and kept asking to be placed in a safety cell.

As correctional officers attempted to move him into a safety cell for the protection of staff and the suspect, Mr. Faaifo suddenly charged correctional staff as they were backing out. Despite being tased twice, he remained combative. The altercation lasted approximately two to three minutes, and four additional deputies from patrol were called in to assist. Ultimately, a WRAP restraint device system was necessary to get him under control.

Several correctional officers and a Sergeant sustained serious injuries, including a concussion, broken bones, and lacerations. They were transported for medical treatment, and their condition is being closely monitored.

The suspect was not injured during the incident.

Sheriff Eric Taylor said: “I am deeply concerned for the well-being of our injured staff members and wish them a full and speedy recovery. This incident underscores the daily dangers our correctional officers face, often with limited resources. Our jail continues to operate below recommended staffing levels, and I firmly believe that some of these injuries could have been prevented had we been adequately staffed. Despite these challenges, our staff showed incredible courage in controlling this dangerous situation.”

The Sheriff’s Office is asking the community to keep the injured correctional staff in their thoughts and prayers. You are welcome to leave a thoughtful comment below for them to read while they recover.

Source & photo: San Benito County Sheriff’s Office