Photos: Men’s Central Jail

Sheriff’s Deputy Miguel Vega checks on an inmate in “gassers alley” at the Men’s Central Jail. (Christina House / For The Times)

June 27, 2014 2:18 PM PT

After a rash of gassing incidents, where inmates throw urine and feces at jail guards, Los Angeles County sheriff’s officials have redesigned jail cells and are pushing for tougher punishments.

Sheriff’s Deputy Stephen Vasquez points out changes to the food tray windows to prevent prisoners from throwing waste at deputies. Inmates sometimes mix the waste with fruit jelly so there’s a better chance that it will stick to their target. (Christina House / For The Times)

Sheriff’s Deputy Stephen Vasquez, left, viewed through a food slot, was attacked on his first day in the cellblock. The prisoner charged with throwing waste at Vasquez faces up to four years in prison if he is convicted of the assault. (Christina House / For The Times)