SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) -- In what turned out to be a contentious day in court, a Judge sentenced two South Dakota Prison inmates for the violent beating of a correctional officer. Lester Monroe and Kyle Jones attacked and beat the officer at the state prison in Sioux Falls in 2023. A second officer was also struck. A jury found both inmates guilty of attempted murder and aggravated assault. "Just get on with it" that's what Kyle Jones told the judge today in court. Jones smiled, smirked, yawned and look at the ceiling as the judge handed down a 50-year prison sentence. Lester Monroe, who also beat the officer, received a 35-year sentence. The Attorney General's office prosecuted the case. "A jury ultimately determined they were guilty of first degree attempted murder as well as assaulting an officer they received what is essentially could be equated to life sentences today," said Marty Jackley. Noem pledges transparency in DHS confirmation hearing The correctional officer beaten in the attack was in court surrounded by family. He was struck about 70 times as Monroe and Jones tried to land blows to his head. The officer survived his injuries. The judge said this could have easily been a murder trial. During today's proceedings, Jones said he attacked the guard to send a message to the Department of Corrections. He believes inmates are treated with in his words "disrespect" and predicted more violence at the prison. He also said he was not sorry for what he did. The judge wasn't having it. Instead of the 35-year sentence she had planned to give Jones, she sentenced him to the full 50 years. Jackley says Jones' 50 year sentence doesn't even start until 2063, so it is basically a life sentence.