HOWARD COUNTY (WTHR) — The Howard County sheriff announced Friday that six officers had been terminated in an investigation into improper activity with inmates.
"I have a zero-tolerance policy for violations of this nature," said Sheriff Jerry Asher. "The actions of a few employees are not representative of the many men and women who work tirelessly and dedicate themselves to honoring the public's trust as members of the Howard County Sheriff's Office."
Officer Jordan Carpenter admitted making inappropriate comments to two female inmates. Officer Carpenter admitted to it during the investigation and was terminated.
Two of the officers, Sgt. Noah Pyke and Cpl. Mychael Salinas had been accused of sexual battery by a female inmate. Cpl. Salinas was later fired for disobeying a direct order, making inappropriate sexual comments to an inmate, lying during an investigation and conduct unbecoming an officer. Sgt. Pyke was fired for lying or being uncooperative during an investigation and disobeying a direct order.
Officer Trevon Johnson was fired for disclosing confidential information to one of the two officers under investigation for sexual battery.
Officer Jonathan Snow was fired for disobeying a direct order and making contact with a known felon.
After an investigation, it was also determind Ofc. Tyler Swygert violated the department's standard of conduct by trafficking with an inmate and through inappropriate touching/relationship with an inmate. He was also terminated.
