Inmate Attacks Another Corrections Officer Decades After Killing Previous One

The so-called "third striker" tried to kill another prison guard this week, according to California officials.

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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An inmate named Jon C. Blaylock, who was previously sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole for attempted murder of a peace officer and later sentenced to life without parole for killing a corrections officer, has allegedly tried to kill another corrections officer at California State Prison, Sacramento. Blaylock has been placed in restricted housing pending investigation, and the case will be referred to the Sacramento County District Attorney's Office for possible felony prosecution.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation in managing violent offenders, particularly those with a history of attacking prison staff. It raises questions about the effectiveness of the state's sentencing laws and the need for improved safety measures and mental health support within the prison system.

The details

According to officials, the latest alleged attack by Blaylock occurred around 10:15 a.m. on Monday in a cell block at California State Prison, Sacramento. The officer sustained multiple puncture wounds, but staff responded immediately and used physical force to quickly stop the attack. An improvised weapon was found at the scene. Blaylock has been placed in restricted housing pending the investigation, and the case will be referred to the Sacramento County District Attorney's Office for possible felony prosecution.

  • Blaylock was taken into custody by the CDCR from Los Angeles County on June 23, 2004, after he was sentenced to life with the possibility of parole for attempted first-degree murder of a peace officer/firefighter.
  • On November 4, 2014, Blaylock was sentenced by Los Angeles County to life with the possibility of parole for assault by an incarcerated person with a deadly weapon or force likely to cause great bodily injury as a third striker.
  • On August 16, 2023, Blaylock was sentenced by San Bernardino County to life without parole for second-degree murder of a peace officer, an in-prison offense, with an enhancement for personal use of a dangerous or deadly weapon.
  • The latest alleged attack by Blaylock occurred around 10:15 a.m. on Monday, March 11, 2026, in a cell block at California State Prison, Sacramento.

The players

Jon C. Blaylock

A 56-year-old inmate who was previously sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole for attempted murder of a peace officer, and later sentenced to life without parole for killing a corrections officer. He is now accused of attacking another corrections officer.

California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR)

The state agency responsible for managing California's prison system and overseeing the investigation into Blaylock's latest alleged attack.

Sacramento County District Attorney's Office

The office that will be reviewing the case against Blaylock for possible felony prosecution.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide whether to allow Blaylock to face additional charges for the latest alleged attack on a corrections officer.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the California prison system in managing violent offenders with a history of attacking staff. It raises questions about the effectiveness of the state's sentencing laws and the need for improved safety measures and mental health support within the prison system to prevent such attacks from occurring.