NSP housing unit closes due to water leak, relocation of inmates

LINCOLN, Neb. -- Authorities reported Thursday that a water leak has prompted the relocation of nearly 140 inmates from housing at the Nebraska State Penitentiary.

The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services said the majority of the inmates were moved into the gymnasium overnight. 

It was reported there are plans to get the inmates moved to more permanent housing while the leak is being assess for what prompted the leak and what the necessary repairs are.

NDCS said the leak was initially found late Wednesday afternoon, when it had cause the flooding of a lwoer level mechanical room.

Officials said water also covered the floor of the affected housing unit. Due to the impact on electrical, water and other systems, the penitentiary campus was placed on modified operations.

NDCS said portable toilets were brought in and bottled water was distributed to the population. Visits have been canceled indefinitely.

It was reported that Thursday, the process has started to restore water and other systems. NDCS said their officials will continue to work with facility staff to transport impacted inmates.

NDCS said that while that process is underway, the facility will remain on modified operations.