Former Van Zandt County Detention Officer Arrested

(KNUE-FM) A former East Texas detention officer has been arrested after being caught bringing a phone into a correctional facility. According to KETK, the former Van Zandt County detention officer was arrested after investigators found he had been communicating with one of the inmates over the phone.

Why the Former Officer Was Charged

The Van Zandt County Sheriff’s Office reports that on March 16, investigators found that Damion Smith was in possession of a cell phone while on duty and was using the phone to communicate with a female inmate. As you would expect, this is a violation of both departmental policy and state law.

READ MORE: East Texas Prison Smuggling Case Involves Burritos

Investigators Say Smith Was Untruthful

Investigators later determined Smith had been untruthful with investigators and had recanted some of the statements he made prior to being terminated from his position.

After the investigation, law enforcement made contact with Smith at his home and he was taken into custody on charges of bringing contraband into a correctional facility and making a false report to a peace officer.

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Sheriff Responds to the Arrest

Sheriff Kevin Bridger said, “This type of behavior will not be tolerated by our employees. When an employee criminally violates the law, the Van Zandt County Sheriff’s Office will take appropriate action.”

It is unclear how much jail time Smith could face for these charges, but we will try and keep you updated as this case continues to move forward.

Remember, it’s illegal for anyone to bring contraband into any jail facility within the state of Texas.