Inmate Sentenced for Assault on Fellow Prisoner

Jaylan Black received 18 months for causing facial fracture in altercation

Apr. 19, 2026 at 4:11pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a handcuff, its metal surface and textured details sharply lit by a harsh flash against a pitch-black background, conveying a sense of gritty investigation and accountability.A harsh flash illuminates the cold, metallic details of a handcuff, a stark reminder of the consequences of violence behind bars.Anoka Today

Jaylan Black, an inmate at the Anoka County Jail, has been sentenced to 18 months in jail after pleading guilty to assaulting a fellow prisoner. The incident occurred on December 6, 2024, when Black punched another inmate in the face during a verbal altercation, causing a facial fracture.

Why it matters

This case highlights the state's commitment to addressing violence within correctional facilities and holding inmates accountable for harmful actions. Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of prisoners is a critical responsibility for the justice system.

The details

According to the Minnesota Attorney General's Office, Black admitted to hitting the other inmate and causing substantial bodily harm. The Attorney General's Office prosecuted Black after a referral from the Anoka County Attorney under Minnesota statutes.

  • On December 6, 2024, Black assaulted a fellow inmate at the Anoka County Jail.
  • In February 2026, Black pleaded guilty to third-degree assault.
  • On April 19, 2026, Black was sentenced to 18 months in jail.

The players

Jaylan Black

An inmate at the Anoka County Jail who pleaded guilty to assaulting a fellow prisoner, causing a facial fracture.

Keith Ellison

The Minnesota Attorney General, who says his office stands ready to help prosecute those who harm their fellow Minnesotans.

Brad Johnson

The Anoka County Attorney, who referred the case against Jaylan Black to the Minnesota Attorney General's Office for prosecution.

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What they’re saying

“We stand ready to help local law enforcement across the state prosecute those who harm their fellow Minnesotans, and Black did just that, and the state held him accountable for it.”

— Keith Ellison, Minnesota Attorney General

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of maintaining safety and accountability within the state's correctional facilities, and the willingness of the Attorney General's Office to work with local authorities to prosecute inmates who commit violent acts against their fellow prisoners.