Former correctional officer Jacquevias Watkins, 34, has been arrested and charged with bribery after allegedly exchanging electronic cigarettes for money with inmates at the Evins Regional Juvenile Center in Edinburg, Texas. Watkins was taken into custody on Tuesday after an investigation by the Office of Inspector General uncovered evidence of multiple instances where he accepted cash from inmates in exchange for contraband, specifically e-cigarettes.
According to the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, e-cigarettes were the only prohibited item mentioned in the arrest press release. Watkins was granted release after posting a $30,000 bond the following day. He is facing charges of bribery, a second-degree felony, which carries a possible penalty of up to a $10,000 fine and two to 20 years in prison. It is currently unknown if Watkins has legal representation.
The case is under investigation and prosecution by the Special Prosecution Unit, and Watkins’ employment status with the correctional facility has not been disclosed. The incident raises concerns about the potential for corruption within the facility and the safety and security of the inmates under Watkins’ care. The Juvenile Justice Department is conducting an internal review to ensure safeguards are in place to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
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