The Albuquerque Journal
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — An investigation into possible “sexual misconduct” between a ranking jail officer at the Metropolitan Detention Center and a female inmate is under way, authorities said Tuesday.
The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a male sergeant who might have committed fraternization, according to MDC authorities.
The incident happened Oct. 23 and appears to be isolated, spokeswoman Nataura Powdrell said.
“Detectives are conducting an investigation to check if criminal laws have been violated,” BCSO spokesman Lawrence Koren said.
“Oftentimes victims don’t report because they are embarrassed or they have a lack of trust,” he said. “This investigation is a direct result of us placing an investigator (in MDC).”
Powdrell said MDC will conduct an internal investigation once the criminal one is completed. She said the guard, who was not identified, is on administrative leave.
“Right now he’s innocent until proven guilty,” she said.
Copyright 2010 Albuquerque Journal