ALABAMA — Two deputies at the Etowah County Detention Center have been arrested on felony contraband charges, Sheriff Jonathon Horton announced Tuesday.
Robert Charles Phillips, 28, and Maya Dudley, 30, were taken into custody Friday and have since been released on bond. The arrests followed an investigation into possible contraband activity at the jail.
Authorities said the investigation began after information surfaced suggesting Phillips was bringing contraband into the facility. A subsequent “shakedown” at the detention center revealed evidence of a deputy’s involvement. Phillips admitted to smuggling items, including cell phones and a soda can filled with narcotics, in exchange for cash. He faces two counts of promoting prison contraband.
Dudley is charged with promoting prison contraband and drug trafficking after attempting to smuggle 29 grams of meth into the jail.
Sheriff Horton stated, “We will not tolerate this type of behavior from anyone within our ranks. The safety and security of our inmates, deputies, and staff are our top priorities, and we will continue to take every measure necessary to maintain integrity and accountability inside our detention center.”
The investigation is ongoing, and officials say the contraband recovered may lead to additional charges against other individuals.
