July 19, 2026 | SUNTV Global Channel
A 25-year-old correctional officer in South Carolina, United States, has been arrested and dismissed from her position after authorities accused her of engaging in an inappropriate relationship with a male inmate and assisting in the smuggling of contraband into a state prison.
The South Carolina Department of Corrections (SCDC) identified the former officer as Jazmin Alexis Teas of Columbia. She has been charged with first-degree sexual misconduct with an inmate, criminal conspiracy, and misconduct in office.
According to investigators, the alleged relationship occurred between April 1 and July 16, 2026, while Teas was employed at the Wateree River Correctional Institution, a minimum-security prison for male inmates in Sumter County.
Authorities said Teas admitted during the investigation to having an inappropriate relationship with the inmate. She is also accused of working with the inmate to bring prohibited items into the correctional facility.
Court records indicate that Teas was granted personal recognizance bonds of $5,000 on each of the three charges and was released following her arrest.
Officials noted that the case is the latest in a series of misconduct allegations involving correctional officers at the same prison. Previous investigations have also resulted in criminal charges against former staff members accused of violating prison regulations.
The South Carolina Department of Corrections said the matter remains under investigation, while legal proceedings against the former officer are expected to continue.
SUNTV Global Channel will provide further updates as more official information becomes available.
