In a shocking turn of events, a correctional officer from Suffolk County, New York, finds himself on the wrong side of the law. Jason Middleton, a 35-year-old Central Islip resident, was arrested on Friday on charges of third-degree criminal sexual act and official misconduct, as per the district attorney’s office.
The District Attorney of Suffolk County, Raymond Tierney, expressed his dismay over the incident. He emphasized the crucial role correctional officers play in the criminal justice system and their responsibility to ensure the safety of inmates. Tierney also appreciated the assistance of the Sheriff’s Office in the investigation.
The charges stem from incidents allegedly occurring between April 26 and September 29, 2024, during Middleton’s tenure at a correctional facility in Riverhead, New York. Middleton is accused of exploiting his role as a correctional officer to coerce an inmate into a sexual act.
According to the allegations, Middleton led an inmate into a utility walkway between jail cells, a location not within the purview of security cameras. It is here that Middleton is said to have forced the inmate into performing oral sex.
Middleton allegedly threatened the inmate with planting contraband in their cell, which could result in additional charges before the assault.
Middleton was arrested by Tierney’s Public Corruption Squad and is expected to be arraigned in Southampton Town Justice Court. The charges against him are not bail-eligible, implying that Middleton will likely be under supervised release.
Suffolk County Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr. expressed his disgust at the alleged actions of the correction officer and assured him that such behavior would not be tolerated. He emphasized that these actions do not represent the values of the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office staff.