by Alfred, Maine – Three former corrections officers at York County Jail, along with an inmate, have been formally indicted on misdemeanor charges related to an alleged money exchange scheme. The investigation, launched in April, uncovered that these officers accepted improper payments from an inmate, leading to their resignations and legal action.
Allegations and Investigation Details
The York County Sheriff’s Office initiated the inquiry after receiving information suggesting misconduct by some jail officers. York County Chief William King commented on the case, stating that investigators successfully thwarted the plot before any contraband could enter the facility.
- Kayleigh Hamilton, 38, of Sanford, indicted for receiving improper gifts as a public servant.
- Emma Kehoe, 25, of Portsmouth, N.H., indicted for conspiracy and receiving improper gifts as a public servant.
- Zarek Melick, 26, of Lyman, indicted for receiving improper gifts as a public servant.
- Inmate Connor McGlone, 29, of Wolfeboro, N.H., indicted for conspiracy and providing improper gifts to public servants.
All three officers had been employed at the jail for approximately 18 months and resigned amid the investigation. McGlone has since been transferred to Maine State Prison.
Leadership Response and Institutional Impact
“We take allegations such as these very seriously. As soon as we learned of the allegations, we took immediate action,” said Chief William King. “It is important to note that the actions of these three individuals do not reflect the dedication and professionalism of the remaining York County Corrections Officers.”
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King explained the challenges corrections officers face with inmate manipulation, emphasizing the need for vigilance. In an interview, he expressed concern about the officers’ lapse in judgement, especially given their relatively short tenure on the job and successful background checks prior to hiring.
Looking Ahead: Safeguards and Accountability
This case has highlighted the need for enhanced oversight and training within correctional facilities. Key takeaways include:
- Continuous vigilance and strict adherence to protocols to prevent manipulation by inmates.
- Review and improvement of hiring processes and background checks.
- Swift legal and institutional responses to allegations of misconduct.
For more details on the investigation and the indictments, visit the original report at NEWS CENTER Maine.
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