x
Breaking News
More () »

Travis County corrections officer arrested for smuggling contraband into facility

The arrest came after an inmate told a supervisor that the officer was bringing contraband into the Travis County Correctional Complex in exchange for money.

TRAVIS COUNTY, Texas — A Travis County corrections officer has been arrested and charged with bringing prohibited substances and items into a correctional facility – a third-degree felony – the sheriff's office said Friday. 

The Travis County Sheriff's Office (TSCO) received a report from an inmate on Oct. 20 that corrections officer Jose Esquivel was bringing contraband into the Travis County Correctional Complex in exchange for money.

TCSO said it immediately opened an internal affairs investigation and followed up with a criminal investigation. According to TCSO, Esquivel was "reassigned to administrative duties that did not involve inmate interaction."

Travis County Sheriff Sally Hernandez released the following statement: 

"I’m disappointed that a Travis County Sheriff’s Office Corrections Officer engaged in this kind of act. When one of our own is arrested, the impact is felt throughout the agency. We hold our employees to a very high standard of conduct and accountability. When it comes to our attention that an employee has potentially violated the law, we act swiftly to investigate the matter and take appropriate action."

Credit: Austin Police Department
Photo: Austin Police Department

Esquivel has been with TCSO since Sept. 10, 2018, officials said. According to the sheriff's office, his case is still under review for administrative or disciplinary action.

PEOPLE ARE ALSO READING

Texas realtor headed to prison for Jan. 6 Capitol riot sounds off on viral fame, Trump

'It means a lot' | Female veterans get new outfit, headshots to help feel empowered

'Fear the Walking Dead' production leaving Texas for Georgia

Before You Leave, Check This Out