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Local Corrections Officers Arrested For Alleged Relations With Inmates, Smuggling Contraband

MGN Online

Two former Jefferson Correctional officers are now facing charges of official misconduct and unlawful compensation, following their arrests last month. An investigation found they smuggled in contraband and had inappropriate relations with inmates.

According to the Florida Department of Corrections’ Inspector General’s Office, both former officers—Sekierra Marshall and Kreshenda Colbert—were involved with inmates.

Officer Marshall is also accused of having an alleged sexual relationship with an inmate, which she denies.

Meanwhile, another inmate claimed he’d been in a relationship with Officer Colbert—which included paying for her place, her furnishings, as well as purchasing clothes and other items for her kids.

In the two separate cases, officials say they also received sworn testimony from inmates that the female officers were smuggling contraband, like synthetic drugs, into Jefferson correctional using their body cavities.

In addition, the investigation found both Marshall and Colbert were separately receiving money from family and friends of inmates.

The following is a statement from the Florida Department of Corrections:

The actions of these officers were not only unlawful but totally unacceptable. We appreciate the continuous hard work of our Inspector General’s Office in helping to ensure the safety and security of our institutions.

For more news updates, follow Sascha Cordner on Twitter: @SaschaCordner.

Sascha Cordner has more than ten years of public radio experience. It includes working at NPR member station WUFT-FM in Gainesville for several years. She's worked in both radio and TV, serving in various capacities as a reporter, producer and anchor. She's also a graduate of the University of Florida with a bachelor's degree in telecommunications. She is the recipient of 15 awards from the Associated Press, Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ), and Edward R. Murrow. Her award-winning stories include her coverage on the infamous “Dozier School for Boys” and a feature titled "Male Breast Cancer: Lost in the Sea of Pink." Currently, Sascha serves as the host and producer of local and state news content for the afternoon news program "All Things Considered" at WFSU. Sascha primarily covers criminal justice and social services issues. When she's not reporting, Sascha likes catching up on her favorite TV shows, singing and reading. Follow Sascha Cordner on Twitter:@SaschaCordner.