'Black August' Bulletin Warns Of Potential Violence Against Police, Prison Guards

WESTWOOD (CBSLA.com) — Law enforcement officials are warning of a new threat of attacks against officers on the street and in prisons over the next month.

A bulletin from the Federal Bureau of Prisons, Sacramento Intelligence Unit and the FBI's National Gang Intelligence Center warns of increased risk for violence against prison guards and police officers during what's being called "Black August".

The Black Guerilla Family (BGF) prison gang reportedly started Black August in the 1970s to honor fallen members. The group believes state prison officials conspired with Aryan Brotherhood members to have a prominent member of BGF killed in prison last summer.

Daniel Vasquez, a former warden at San Quentin State Prison, told KNX 1070's Jon Baird police need to be ready.

"It's a wake-up call, sometimes officers can become complacent," said Vasquez. "Not only police officers but officers in prison, they can become complacent.

The BGF reportedly discussed ambushing officers who were parked in alleys and side streets.

The FBI and Bureau of Prisons declined to comment.