Three correctional officers with the Mississippi Department of Corrections (MDOC) were apprehended this week after investigators discovered attempts to smuggle contraband into the Central Mississippi Correctional Facility in Rankin County.
Searches of the officers’ work bags revealed a range of illegal items, including cell phones, controlled substances, food, and alcohol. The three correctional officers taken into custody in separate incidents are Sherry McCollum, Kiarra Michael, and Theresa Hasty.
Sherry McCollum, 49, from Jackson, was arrested Sunday evening. She is charged with various felonies, including introduction of contraband, two counts of introduction of a controlled substance, and two counts of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, all of which are tied to a correctional facility. Investigators discovered four cell phones, 232 grams of crystal methamphetamine, 76 grams of marijuana, and a food container that held steak and sausage-like objects wrapped in tape. McCollum had been hired at MDOC since February 2023.
Kiarra Michael, 33, of Jackson, was arrested on Sunday morning. She was charged with both conspiracy and the general prohibitions legislation. An examination of Kiarra Michael’s belongings uncovered ten cell phones and a wall charger. Michael was released on bond and had been working for MDOC since July 2023.
Theresa Hasty, 33, of Vicksburg, was brought into jail early Monday. She was charged with conspiracy as well as selling, possessing, or using alcoholic beverages in a penal facility. Officers discovered 30.4 fluid ounces of Everclear liquor in her suitcase. Hasty had been working with MDOC since November 2023.
In a statement, MDOC Commissioner Burl Cain said, “Regretfully, sometimes our employees cross the line, and we must send a message that introducing contraband into our facilities will not be tolerated. We will prosecute to the fullest extent of the law, and the corrupt inmates will receive severe disciplinary action.”
Through increased monitoring and enforcement, MDOC officials remain committed to preventing prohibited items such as narcotics and phones from entering the state’s prisons.
