Aiken, South Carolina, August 22, 2025
News Summary
Jaquaime Trashawn Washington, a former detention officer in Aiken County, was arrested for allegedly smuggling contraband to inmates. His charges include Misconduct in Office and Furnishing Contraband in a County Jail. Evidence from an investigation revealed he supplied vapes, THC gummies, and ecstasy pills, valued around $3,000. The integrity of law enforcement is a major concern, as prosecutors take over the case. Aiken County Sheriff reaffirmed the commitment to a secure jail environment.
Aiken, South Carolina – Former Aiken County Detention Officer Arrested for Providing Contraband to Inmates
Jaquaime Trashawn Washington, a 24-year-old former detention officer, was arrested on August 21, 2025, by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED). He faces serious charges including Misconduct in Office and Furnishing Contraband in a County Jail.
Washington was immediately booked into the Aiken County Detention Center—the same facility where he was employed prior to his arrest. His employment was terminated on November 6, 2024, following an internal investigation initiated by the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office. This investigation uncovered substantial evidence of wrongdoing on Washington’s part.
Details of the Allegations
The charges against Washington stem from allegations that he provided unauthorized items, classified as contraband, to inmates while he was on duty and still in uniform. The timeframe during which these incidents were reported to have occurred is from June to July 2024.
According to the findings of the investigation, Washington is accused of smuggling in between 15 and 20 vapes, 5 to 6 packs of THC gummies, and a number of ecstasy pills for inmates. The total estimated value of the contraband items is approximately $3,000.
Reactions and Future Proceedings
Aiken County Sheriff Mary Sawyer has made it clear that integrity is of utmost importance within the sheriff’s office, stating that misconduct will not be tolerated. She has reaffirmed the commitment of the department to maintaining a secure and compliant jail environment.
The case will now be handled by the Second Circuit Solicitor’s Office, which will oversee the prosecution of Washington on the charges he faces.
Background Context
Misconduct by correctional officers is a serious issue, as it not only jeopardizes the safety and integrity of correctional facilities but also undermines public trust in law enforcement agencies. The Aiken County Detention Center has faced scrutiny in the past due to similar allegations involving employees providing contraband to inmates. The internal investigations that lead to arrests are part of broader efforts to curb illegal activities and maintain order within the institution.
The involvement of SLED in this case highlights the collaboration between local sheriff offices and state law enforcement to ensure accountability among law enforcement personnel and to protect the citizens they serve.
FAQ About the Incident
What were Jaquaime Trashawn Washington’s charges?
Washington has been charged with Misconduct in Office and Furnishing Contraband in a County Jail.
What contraband items was he accused of providing?
Washington allegedly provided items including vapes, THC gummies, and ecstasy pills.
When did the alleged misconduct occur?
The alleged misconduct took place between June and July 2024.
How much is the total estimated value of the contraband?
The total estimated value of the contraband items is approximately $3,000.
What is the next step in the legal process?
The Second Circuit Solicitor’s Office will handle the prosecution of the case.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Arrestee Name | Jaquaime Trashawn Washington |
| Age | 24 years |
| Date of Arrest | August 21, 2025 |
| Charges | Misconduct in Office, Furnishing Contraband |
| Contraband Items | Vapes, THC gummies, ecstasy pills |
| Estimated Value | $3,000 |
| Investigation Conducted By | Aiken County Sheriff’s Office, SLED |
| Prosecution Office | Second Circuit Solicitor’s Office |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
South Carolina Man Arrested for COVID-19 Fraud Scheme
Additional Resources
- WLTX: Aiken County Correctional Officer Arrested
- WFXG: Former Aiken County Detention Officer Arrested
- Post and Courier: Arrest of Detention Officer
- Wikipedia: Corrections Officer
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Correctional Officer
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.
