Sheriff’s corrections officer fired for sexual misconduct

A Butler County corrections officer has been fired after she was accused of engaging in sexual activity with at least one inmate and bringing contraband into the corrections facility, Sheriff Richard K. Jones said in a statement released to media.

Nakisha Newell, 28, employed as a corrections officer for the last 18 months, is accused of bringing in a cell phone and electronic cigarettes. During the investigation, it was discovered she engaged in sexual activity with at least one inmate. She was immediately fired.

She has been charged with a two counts of felony sexual battery and two counts of conveyance. More charges are likely, Jones said.

Maj. Mike Craft said a observant corrections sergeant brought information to administrators and an investigation into possible criminal activity began.

“He had seen some things that he didn’t think were right. He did a great job bring the information to us,” Craft said. He termed the suspicions an “educated hunch” by the corrections sergeant.

During questioning about the contraband, Newell confessed to having sex with a male inmate, Craft said. He added the investigation is ongoing and could not say if the inmate would be charged.

Newell was booked in though the Butler County Jail, but will not be housed there. Craft said she will be taken to another county.

“Being a corrections officer is a noble but tough job,” Jones said in the prepared statement. “These men and women work hard and always have to be on their guard. My employees take pride in their work and strive to ensure this facility maintains a great reputation. She has tarnished that and I do not want people like that working for me.”

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