Aiken, South Carolina, August 22, 2025
News Summary
Jaquaime Washington, a former detention officer, was arrested for allegedly supplying contraband to inmates at the Aiken County Detention Center. The charges include misconduct in office and furnishing contraband. An internal investigation revealed that Washington had brought various illegal items, including vapes and THC gummies, into the facility while employed. His actions have raised concerns about integrity and safety in correctional institutions, with the case now being prosecuted by the Second Circuit Solicitor’s Office.
Aiken, South Carolina — Jaquaime Washington, a former detention officer at the Aiken County Detention Center, was arrested on August 21, 2025, for allegedly supplying contraband to inmates. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) charged the 24-year-old with misconduct in office and furnishing contraband in a county jail. This arrest follows an internal investigation conducted by the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office, which found substantial evidence of misconduct during Washington’s employment at the facility.
Washington’s tenure as a detention officer ended with his termination on November 6, 2024, after the sheriff’s office uncovered the details of his activities. Between June and July 2024, he is accused of bringing a significant quantity of illegal items into the detention center, including 15 to 20 vapes, 5 to 6 packs of THC gummies, and an undisclosed number of ecstasy pills. The total estimated value of the contraband items is approximately $3,000.
Following the findings of the internal investigation, the case was handed over to SLED for further action. Washington was then booked at the same detention center where he had previously worked, highlighting the severity of the allegations against him.
Sheriff Marty Sawyer addressed the incident, stressing that Washington’s actions do not reflect the broader values and commitment of other staff members at the facility. He reiterated the importance of integrity and safety within the detention center, asserting that any form of misconduct would not be tolerated. The Second Circuit Solicitor’s Office is now responsible for prosecuting the case.
Details of the Case
- Arrestee: Jaquaime Washington
- Charges: Misconduct in office, furnishing contraband in a county jail
- Arrest Date: August 21, 2025
- Date of Termination: November 6, 2024
- Internal Investigation: Conducted by Aiken County Sheriff’s Office
- Estimated Value of Contraband: $3,000
Background Context
The Aiken County Detention Center is tasked with housing inmates and ensuring their safety, as well as that of the correctional staff. Misconduct within detention facilities raises serious concerns regarding safety and order, prompting law enforcement agencies to undertake thorough investigations when allegations arise. The involvement of SLED underlines the gravity of Washington’s alleged offenses, as they are specialized in handling such matters to ensure accountability and adherence to legal protocols.
Future Proceedings
The case will be managed by the Second Circuit Solicitor’s Office, where it will be prosecuted in accordance with the law. The court proceedings will determine the consequences Washington could face if found guilty of the charges laid against him.
National and Local Impact
This incident not only impacts the Aiken County community but also contributes to broader discussions about integrity within law enforcement and correctional facilities across the nation. Maintaining trust in these institutions is vital, as incidents such as this can undermine public confidence.
FAQ Section
What is Jaquaime Washington charged with?
Jaquaime Washington is charged with misconduct in office and furnishing contraband in a county jail.
What kind of contraband did Washington allegedly supply to inmates?
Washington allegedly supplied inmates with vapes, THC gummy packs, and ecstasy pills.
When was Washington arrested?
Washington was arrested on August 21, 2025.
Who is prosecuting the case?
The Second Circuit Solicitor’s Office is responsible for prosecuting the case against Washington.
Summary Chart
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Arrestee | Jaquaime Washington |
| Charges | Misconduct in office; furnishing contraband |
| Arrest Date | August 21, 2025 |
| Termination Date | November 6, 2024 |
| Contraband Items | Vapes, THC gummies, ecstasy pills |
| Estimated Value | $3,000 |
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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 former jail officer arrested for contraband
- Post and Courier: Former Detention Officer Arrested for Contraband Misconduct
- Wikipedia: Contraband
- Google Search: Aiken County Detention Center
- Google Scholar: Correctional Facilities Misconduct
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Correctional Institution
- Google News: Aiken County Contraband
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
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