Former correctional officer accused of alleged contraband

A former Colorado County correctional officer was arrested and processed by his former coworkers for allegedly bringing in and selling contraband inside the Colorado County Jail on Thursday, March 13.

Javier Torres Jr., the former officer in question, confessed to his role in allegedly “distributing prohibited items into the correctional facility” after an investigation was opened looking into the matter, following a complaint that was received on Jan. 24 about “contraband being brought into” the jail.

Investigators alongside Correctional Facility Administration closely monitored jail recordings of inmates using the newly implemented communication system, Prodigy Solutions, which records voice calls, text messages and video among other features, being used as a “comprehensive investigation tool.”

According to a press release provided by the Colorado County Sheriff’s Office, Lieutenant Jacob Gorman, with the help of other investigators, found that inmates were providing a Cash App account, that was linked back to Torres, outside sources to fund contraband. The Colorado County Attorney’s Office issued subpoenas for any records related to the account and determined that Torres had received funds from the family and friends of inmates.

According to a press release provided by the Colorado County Sheriff’s Office, Lieutenant Jacob Gorman, with the help of other investigators, found that inmates were providing a Cash App account, that was linked back to Torres, that outside sources were using to fund the contraband. The Colorado County Attorney’s Office issued subpoenas for any records related to the account and determined that Torres had received funds from the family and friends of inmates.

“As the Sheriff, it is my duty to be transparent with the citizens and inform them that this type of behavior is disgraceful and does not represent the core values of this office or the members of this agency,” said Colorado County Sheriff Justin Lindemann. “The Sheriff’s Office is fully committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and will continue to uphold these values in our service to the community.”

The investigation is still ongoing to determine if criminal charges will be brought against others involved in the case.