Oklahoma County detention officer fired after allegedly stealing thousands from detainees

An Oklahoma County jail staff sergeant accused of stealing money from inmates has been fired from the detention center, a spokesman announced.

The detention officer, who is 38, was arrested and booked into the jail Thursday after allegations he stole $549 from an inmate who was booked into the jail in September.

The money is alleged to have been stolen from the intake and discharge area of the jail. It was supposed to be deposited into the inmate's account. Jail officials said the investigation began when the inmate was released and the money could not be located.

The detention officer was seen on camera holding money as he stepped into an office before returning without the money in his hand “and his right cargo pocket had grown,” an officer with the Oklahoma County jail trust wrote in a probable cause affidavit.

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During the investigation, the detention officer confessed to stealing a total of more than $2,000 from several inmates in recent months, according to the affidavit.

He was released from the jail Thursday on $3,000 bond.

The officer started working at the jail in 2014 when it was under the authority of the Oklahoma County sheriff’s office.

The Oklahoman is not naming the officer yet because he has not been formally charged.

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“We are deeply disappointed by the actions of this individual, as they do not reflect the values or standards of the Oklahoma County Detention Center,” jail CEO Brandi Garner said in a statement. “In recent months, we have taken steps to enhance, and expanded, our Criminal Investigations Division to swiftly respond, identify and address any illegal activities inside the jail. By investing in the strength and expertise of this division, we are reinforcing our dedication to maintaining a safe, secure and accountable environment for everyone in our care."

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma County detention officer fired after allegedly stealing thousands from detainees