Eight maximum security inmates at Cook County Jail in Chicago have been charged with aggravated arson after they allegedly set fire to their uniforms last month.
The Cook County sheriff's department says the inmates lit a wick in a microwave to set fire to the special uniforms that denote those who have engaged in sexual misconduct. The smoke became so thick that the sheriff's department had to evacuate others in the maximum security housing unit to an outdoor patio. Correctional deputies had to be sent to the hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation.
The inmates are all being held on charges ranging from murder to aggravated robbery. One also was charged with aggravated battery to a peace officer.
