VILLE PLATTE, LA - The Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Office announces the arrest of two Evangeline Parish Detention Center correctional officers, Kiana Mayo and Bethaney Lewis, following an extensive internal investigation into alleged criminal activity occurring within the detention facility.
The investigation was initiated after information was received regarding possible misconduct involving detention personnel. Sheriff's Office investigators conducted surveillance operations and gathered evidence over a period of time. As a result of the investigation, sufficient probable cause was established to obtain arrest warrants for both employees.
On-site arrests were made at the Evangeline Parish Detention Center without incident.
Mayo and Lewis have each been charged with the following offenses:
Malfeasance in Office (14:134) - Felony
Bond: $15,000
Taking Contraband into a Penal Facility (14:402) - Felony
Bond: $15,000
Criminal Conspiracy (14:26) - Felony
Bond: $15,000
Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance, Schedule I (40:966)
At the time of their arrests, both individuals had been employed by the Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Office for an extended period and had served as correctional officers assigned to the detention center.
Sheriff's Office investigators determined through surveillance, interviews, and the collection of evidence that criminal activity had allegedly occurred involving the introduction of contraband into the correctional facility. The investigation culminated in the arrests being made after evidence established probable cause that the offenses had taken place.
"The actions of a few individuals do not reflect the professionalism and dedication of the men and women who faithfully serve the citizens of Evangeline Parish each day," said Sheriff Charles R. Guillory. "When allegations of misconduct are brought to our attention, we will investigate them thoroughly and hold anyone accountable who violates the law, regardless of their position within our agency."
The Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Office remains committed to maintaining the integrity, security, and professionalism of its detention operations. Cooperation between investigative personnel and detention administration was instrumental in bringing this investigation to a successful conclusion.
This remains an active criminal investigation, and additional charges or arrests may be possible as investigators continue to review evidence and pursue all leads.
All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Kiana Mayo
DOB: 05/27/2002
Opelousas, LA
Bethaney Lewis
DOB: 09/04/2003
Opelousas, LA
The Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Office reminds the public that all individuals referenced in this release are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. In accordance with agency policy and to protect the integrity of ongoing investigations, the identities of all subjects will remain anonymous unless otherwise authorized for release. The Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Office also assures citizens that all information, tips, and assistance received from the public will remain confidential and anonymous to the fullest extent permitted by law.
The Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Office remains committed to serving the citizens of Evangeline Parish through professional law enforcement, transparency, and public safety.
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