A correctional officer was arrested and immediately fired from the Peoria County Jail Thursday night after an allegation of passing contraband to a detainee in exchange for money.
According to a news release from the Peoria County Sheriff's Office, an internal investigation led to the arrest of Ezekiel Hidden, 24, for official misconduct and bringing contraband into a penal institution.
The release from the sheriff's office said jail staff was notified of the offense earlier in the day. The investigation determined Hidden received money to bring in a cannabis vape pen on several occasions.
A news release from the Peoria County State's Attorney's Office said Hidden received $1,000, and that he admitted giving the items to the inmate.
The charge is a non-detainable offense under the SAFE-T Act and Hidden will be released from custody before trial under court-ordered conditions.
Sheriff Chris Watkins said he was “saddened” by the incident.
“Our organization is committed to integrity and maintaining public trust,” Watkins said in his office's news release. “Those that violate this have no place in law enforcement or our organization and must be held accountable.”
Watkins added the actions of the former corrections officer “are not representative” of the jail staff.
