Aiken, SC, August 22, 2025
News Summary
Jaquaime Washington, a former jailer at the Aiken County Detention Center, was arrested on serious charges including the supply of contraband to inmates. Following an internal investigation, he was found to have smuggled vaping devices, THC gummies, and ecstasy pills into the facility. Washington’s actions led to his termination and subsequent prosecution by the Second Circuit Solicitor’s Office, highlighting the importance of ethical conduct in correctional facilities and the efforts to maintain safety within them.
Former Aiken County Jailer Arrested for Supplying Contraband to Inmates
Aiken, SC – Jaquaime Washington, a former jailer at the Aiken County Detention Center, has been arrested by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) on August 21, 2025. Washington faces serious charges, including furnishing contraband to prisoners and misconduct in office, as a result of an internal investigation into his activities while employed at the facility.
Washington’s employment at the Aiken County Detention Center was terminated on November 6, 2024, following the initiation of an internal probe by the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office. The investigation discovered that during the months of June and July 2024, Washington allegedly smuggled in contraband items, including between 15 to 20 vaping devices, five to six THC-infused gummies, and ecstasy pills, with an estimated value of approximately $3,000.
The case was subsequently referred to SLED for further investigation and prosecution. Law enforcement officials have emphasized the importance of adhering to the highest standards of conduct within detention facilities, highlighting that Washington’s actions do not mirror the commitment displayed by other staff members at Aiken County.
The Second Circuit Solicitor’s Office has accepted the case and will handle the prosecution of Washington. As a former jailer, he is expected to face significant legal consequences if found guilty of the charged offenses.
Details of the Charges
- Name: Jaquaime Washington
- Charges: Furnishing contraband to prisoners and misconduct in office
- Date of Arrest: August 21, 2025
- Termination Date: November 6, 2024
- Contraband Items Supplied: 15-20 vapes, 5-6 THC gummies, ecstasy pills
- Value of Contraband: Approximately $3,000
- Investigation Origin: Internal probe by Aiken County Sheriff’s Office referred to SLED
- Prosecutor: Second Circuit Solicitor’s Office
Background Information
The Aiken County Detention Center is responsible for housing individuals awaiting trial or serving short sentences. It is crucial for the integrity and safety of both inmates and staff that all employees adhere to the rules and regulations governing the facility. Allegations of misconduct, such as those against Washington, undermine this integrity and can create an unsafe environment.
In recent years, corrections facilities across the nation have experienced challenges with contraband entering their facilities. Items such as drugs, weapons, and other unauthorized possessions have been identified as serious threats, often leading to larger safety issues. Authorities are vigilant in investigations when such activities are suspected, ensuring that employees are held accountable for their actions.
The Aiken County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment in its facilities, stressing that the behavior exhibited by Washington is not representative of the staff as a whole. Accountability measures will continue to be enforced to deter such misconduct.
Conclusion
Jaquaime Washington’s arrest serves as a reminder of the critical responsibilities held by correctional officers and the potential repercussions of violating these duties. As the prosecution moves forward, the Aiken County community awaits further developments in this significant case.
FAQ
What are the charges against Jaquaime Washington?
He is charged with furnishing contraband to prisoners and misconduct in office.
When was he arrested?
Washington was arrested on August 21, 2025.
What items did Washington supply to inmates?
He allegedly supplied between 15 to 20 vapes, five to six THC gummies, and ecstasy pills valued at around $3,000.
When was Washington terminated from his position?
He was terminated on November 6, 2024.
Who is prosecuting the case?
The Second Circuit Solicitor’s Office is handling the prosecution of Jaquaime Washington.
Key Features of the Case
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Jaquaime Washington |
| Arrest Date | August 21, 2025 |
| Charges | Contraband furnishing, misconduct |
| Contraband Value | $3,000 |
| Termination Date | November 6, 2024 |
| Prosecution | Second Circuit Solicitor’s Office |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Former Jailer Arrested for Smuggling Contraband in Aiken County
Former Aiken County Detention Officer Arrested for Misconduct
Additional Resources
- WRDW: Ex-jailer accused of smuggling contraband to Aiken County inmates
- Augusta Chronicle: Former Aiken County jailer charged over smuggled contraband
- WJBF: Former Aiken County detention officer arrested for misconduct
- WLTX: South Carolina jailer arrested for providing contraband
- Post and Courier: Former detention officer arrested for contraband misconduct
- Wikipedia: Corrections Officer
- Google Search: Aiken County Detention Center
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Corrections
- Google News: Contraband in Jails
- Google Scholar: Contraband Security in Jails
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
