(Michigan City, IN) - A correctional officer fatally stabbed by an inmate at Indiana State Prison was laid to rest Monday.  Lt. Gene Lasco, 57, of LaPorte was hailed for running over to help another prison guard who was being stabbed by the same offender on February 21.

 

Retired LaPorte County Police Sgt. Mike Kellems said he’s certain Lasco is being rewarded for paying the ultimate sacrifice.  “The Bible actually says greater love have no man than one who would give his life for a friend.  That’s exactly what Lt. Lasco did,” Kellems said.

 

Services for Lasco were Saturday and Sunday at the Orak Shrine in Michigan City.  His body was taken in a procession Monday from Root Funeral Home in Michigan City for burial in Decatur, Illinois.

 

Tymetri Campbell, serving a 130-year sentence for a triple murder in Indianapolis, is expected to face murder and other charges.  Lasco was stabbed multiple times while assisting Sgt. Patrick Schmidt who being attacked by Campbell, prison officials said.  Schmitt, 22, of Lake Station was last reported still hospitalized in serious condition.

 

According to the Indiana Department of Correction, Lasco began his career as a correctional officer in 2009 at the prison on Michigan City’s west side.  Kellems said Lasco was nothing short of a hero for his actions in a line of work that unfortunately doesn’t receive the same level of recognition as a police officer despite the extreme danger.  “They’re among the lowest paid in the law enforcement circle and they have a very, very difficult job,” he said.

 

Kellems, as a member of “Cops Cycling for Survivors”, greeted Lasco’s wife during Saturday’s heavily attended visitation.  He informed her the group’s annual fund raiser by officers and supporters of law enforcement, which involves riding bicycles throughout Indiana, will be dedicated to her late husband in 2022.  Kellems also gave her a donation from the organization, which provides financial assistance to families of fallen police officers.  “He will be honored during our ride next year.  His photograph will be on the side of our support truck. He’ll be the main focal point of our ride in 2022,” he said.

 

State Senator Mike Bohacek of Michiana Shores has also created a GoFundMe Page to help support the Lasco family.