The state will seek criminal charges against an Oahu Community Correctional Center inmate who allegedly stabbed another inmate Monday although the victim did not want charges filed, a Department of Public Safety spokeswoman said.

Spokeswoman Toni Schwartz said Tuesday: “We will pursue charges, as well as possible disciplinary action. Victims have a right to pursue or not on criminal acts against them, but if it’s witnessed on our grounds, we can pursue it.”

Two furlough inmates were returning to Module 20 in the prison after work at about 6 p.m. Monday when they got into a fight, Schwartz said. 

A 43-year old inmate, who was serving time for kidnapping, allegedly stabbed a 28-year old inmate, a prison official said. 

Paramedics took the 28-year-old man to a nearby hospital for assessment and treatment of his stab wounds. 

Officers arrested the suspect on suspicion of second-degree attempted murder, but police said the victim withdrew his complaint at 10:50 p.m. 

Schwartz said there is an ongoing internal DPS investigation into the matter.