CINCINNATI — The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office has released surveillance footage from inside the county jail showing a corrections officer removing his belt before escorting an inmate around a corner, moments before an alleged assault that took place out of camera view.
Jordan Anderson, 26, is charged with misdemeanor assault. According to court documents, Anderson “removed his county issued uniform belt and struck (the inmate) two times in the lower back/buttock region” on Nov. 19. Investigators said Anderson admitted to striking the inmate during an interview, the Cincinnati Enquirer reports.
The sheriff’s office released two surveillance video clips from different hallway angles. The alleged assault is not visible.
The video begins with inmates and officers lined up in a hallway. One inmate separates from the group and walks to the far end before turning the corner. Moments later, Anderson steps out from a nearby door and moves toward him. The inmate jogs back to the line.
Another officer approaches the inmate and grabs his shirt. As this happens, Anderson removes his belt and walks toward the group. He then gestures toward the connecting hallway, and the inmate follows him out of view.
About three seconds later, Anderson walks back into the hallway, putting his belt on as he passes the line of inmates. He does not return to the group.
The inmate reappears moments later and briefly touches his buttocks. Some inmates react; others do not.
A spokesperson for the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office said Anderson has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.
Court records show Anderson appeared before Hamilton County Municipal Judge Deborah Casey, and his $1,000 bond was posted the same day. He is required to wear an ankle monitor and have no contact with the inmate involved. His next court date is scheduled for Dec. 12.
