Texas Prison Guard Arrested After Inmate Stabbed to Death

(KNUE-FM) It’s common knowledge that crime happens everywhere, including here in Texas. And the chance of violence only increases when you’re hosting many criminals together like in a Texas prison. But unfortunately, there was a violent incident that took place at a Texas prison recently and the guard on duty did nothing after hearing about violence that occurred, and now that guard has been arrested.

Where Did the Violence Take Place?

According to KLTV, the incident took place at the Polunsky prison in Livingston, Texas.

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Timeline: From Stabbing to Arrest

Correctional officer, Ty Wilkerson, 26-years-old was working in the prison and was made aware of a inmate who was stabbed by multiple inmates around 6:02 a.m. The affidavit states that Wilkerson did not provide aid or even report the stabbing to other officials. The inmate was found in his cell unresponsive at 9:44 a.m.

According to the state custodial death report the inmate who passed away was 45-year-old Jarrod Tolbert. He was pronounced dead by medical staff on Monday, July 21, 2025, at 11:09 p.m.

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Charges & Allegations Explained

Wilkerson who has since been arrested was charged with violating civil rights of person in custody. He was booked into the Polk County Jail on Monday but was released the same day.

An affidavit regarding the incident claims “The defendant’s failure to render aide and notify authorities contributed to the death of the victim inmate.”

We wish the best for the family of the deceased. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.